Now that summer is upon us, staying cool is always a challenge for me.
It’s not the summer that I mind, as much as it is the combination of heat and debilitating humidity.
Thanks to the wonderful world of essential oils, I have discovered some cool and nifty tips that I would like to share…just in case you’re like me!
~Peppermint~
Peppermint is one of the most useful essential oils. It is steamed-distilled from the dried plants of Mentha Piperita when they are mature and in full bloom.
The cooling effect of peppermint is from the presence of menthol. It is extremely useful when you are hot from either a fever or hot weather.
Inhaled – it cools a fever, soothes a headache, acts as an antidepressant, and is great for mental fatigue.
~Homemade Coolers~
Shower Wash
~Add 10-20 drops to a 12-14 oz. bottle of unscented shower gel (shake well). Your entire body will tingle with coolness!
Body & Room Spray
~Add 6-8 drops to a 4 oz. spray bottle (glass preferably). Spray your arms and legs whenever you need to cool down. Use as a room spray for keeping the air fresh and cool. Lightly spray your bed sheets before retiring…so you have some cool dreams! (always shake the bottle before spraying)
Body Lotion
~Add 10-15 drops to a 8-12 oz. bottle of unscented body lotion (shake well). Apply as needed throughout the day. Also feels great on hot tired feet.
Bath Soak
~Add 4 drops to a full cup of Epsom salts. Pour into lukewarm running water to distribute the essential oil evenly throughout the bath. Soak for 15 mins.
Foot Bath
~Add 3 drops to a half a cup of Epsom salts. Pour into a ceramic or stainless steel bowl filled with warm water. After about 10 minutes, begin to add a handful of ice cubes – allowing the water to turn deliciously cool. Apply a small amount of peppermint lotion to your feet. You’ll die and think you’ve gone to the coolest place in heaven!
Speaking of Ice Cubes
Rub an ice cube on each of your wrists. You will instantly feel like a cool cat!
~Caution Care~
Peppermint oil is highly concentrated. Start with a small amount…you can always add.
Do not use during or after being in the sun or on skin that is sunburned.
Do not use these tips all at once. Try one or two.
Ladies…please do not use peppermint on freshly shaved legs or underarms. Wait a day or two after.
Avoid close contact with your eyes.
For external use only.
Never use peppermint oil directly on the skin without first diluting with oil, lotion or water.
If for some reason you do not enjoy the scent of peppermint – please feel free to substitute Eucalyptus oil. It works equally as well to cool.
So anyway folks, if you’re like me and HATE being HOT…try some peppermint…it will definately cool your jets!
Be cool
For pure essential oils and supplies: Hands-On Aromatherapy
Foot Notes 