Fragrant Soak
Lavender derives its name from the Latin word lavare, “to wash.” “A lavender bath before bed may help reduce insomnia and provide a peaceful night’s sleep,” says Shellie Enteen, the South Florida Regional Director of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. “It also has stress-relieving properties and is well known for pain relief.”
Use a high quality, not fragrance grade, essential oil like EO’s French Lavender Essential Oil ($10, eoproducts.com). Try Enteen’s recipe to relax and reduce stress just before bedtime.
Lavender Milk Bath
- 10 to 12 drops lavender oil
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream
Combine lavender and milk or cream in a small bowl. Enter the bath, and then pour the mixture into the water. Inhale and relax. Hot water increases the rate of aromatic release so the soothing effects are strongest in the first few minutes.
Honey Hydration
For flaking or dry, cracked skin, honey offers healing benefits. It also contains a germ-killing substance called inhibine, which helps prevent infections. You can apply a small amount to relieve chapped lips or use it as a spot treatment for a pimple before bed. “Honey has a very high potassium content, which makes it almost impossible for bacteria to survive in it,” says Cox. “It contains many vitamins and minerals that benefit skin, and is one of the best-known humectants, materials that hold moisture.”
For use on your face or body, purchase honey labeled “100% pure.” Also try organic honey, often with hints of lavender, orange blossom or sage added. Cox created this recipe to add moisture to your skin.
Honey Facial Mask
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon pure honey
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Mix together all ingredients and spread onto clean, damp skin. Let sit for 15 minutes and then remove with warm water. Pat your skin dry and moisturize.
Treat Your Feet
A soak in fresh mint or pure essential oil of mint can take miles off weary, achy feet. For this recipe, use high quality, not fragrance grade, essential oil of mint like Aura Cacia Organic Peppermint Essential Oil ($9.35, auracacia.com).
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