Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils. Besides its pleasant scent, it is beneficial for health and beauty. If a day at the spa is not in your schedule or your budget, pamper yourself at home with lavender essential oil. Here are a few ways to pamper yourself from head to toe.
Hair
Treat your hair to deep conditioning with lavender essential oil. Add 6 to 8 drops of lavender essential oil to 2 teaspoons of carrier oil such as olive or coconut. Essential oils are concentrated and potent. It is important to dilute them with a carrier oil before use. Once you have the mixture, apply it to your hair and massage it into the scalp. You can comb it through to ensure even distribution. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then shampoo and condition as usual. Lavender oil can help repair damaged hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and pleasantly fragrant. It helps prevent dandruff too. You can also add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your shampoo and conditioner to make it part of your regular hair care routine.
Cleanse and Tone Your Face
Lavender essential oil cleanses and tones, leaving skin feeling fresh. It locks in moisture, making it a good moisturizer for dry skin. Regular use of lavender oil reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. You can make a facial cleanser by applying 3 to 5 drops of lavender essential oil with a teaspoon of olive oil. Massage it into your face and neck for a minute or two. Use a warm washcloth to remove any excess. Pat your face dry with a towel.
Soothe Your Feet
Our hard-working feet often get neglected. However, they could use some pampering too. Not only can lavender essential oil soothe tired feet, but it also contains antifungal properties that can treat athletes’ feet and toenail fungus. All you need for a relaxing foot bath is a container big enough to soak your feet comfortably. Fill it with warm water, and add 6 to 8 drops of lavender essential oil. You can also add a 1/2 cup of Epsom salts to relieve sore, achy feet. Soak your feet for approximately 20 minutes.
De-Stress Your Body and Mind
If you’ve had a hard day at work and your nerves are frazzled, wash away the anxiety with a lavender bath. It can help to relax stiff muscles and alleviate the pain of a tension headache. Lavender also helps relax your mind and body so that you can sleep more soundly. To prepare your lavender bath, fill the tub with warm water. Mix 8 to 10 drops of lavender essential oil with 1 ounce of coconut oil. Then add 8 to 10 drops of the mixture to your bath. Soak in your lavender bath until you feel relaxed. Now that you’ve pampered yourself from head to toe with lavender, you can sleep soundly and peacefully.
Caution
Essential oils are potent extracts that can be potentially dangerous. Never take essential oils internally. Never apply essential oils directly to the skin since irritation may occur. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying. Although lavender essential oil is considered safe, skin irritation may occur in people who are allergic. Lavender may interact with sedative medications since it can cause drowsiness. Always consult your physician before using essential oils.