Hot and Cold Compresses
There’s nothing quite like a compress to help with muscular pain, sprains, and bruises. They also help to reduce pain and congestion in internal organs. However, it’s important to know when to use each.
A cold compress is best for recent injuries (sprains, bruises, swellings, and inflammation), and for headaches, migraines, and fever.
A hot compress is best for old injuries, muscular pain, toothache, menstrual cramps, cystitis, boils and abscesses. Additionally, some people with migraines may prefer a hot compress to a cold one.
To make a hot compress, add a few drops of the appropriate essential oil to a bowl of hot (not boiling) water. Take a clean cloth or bandage and soak it in the mixture. Wring out the excess, and place over the affected area. Repeat as often as needed. A cold compress is made in a similar manner, only using your choice of cold or ice water.
Direct Application
While many essential oils require some sort of dilution before applying to the skin, some do not. Therefore undiluted application to a problem area may be the best way to tackle certain health challenges, like athlete’s foot. Another form of direct application involves inhaling the scent directly from the bottle, or using a few drops on a handkerchief. This method is convenient when traveling, and great for health challenges like migraines.
Massage
The basic rule is to add 2-3 drops to 1 ounce of carrier oil, and massage on affected area. However, because some essential oils are stronger than others, consult the essential oil section for specific guidelines.
Aromatic Baths
Essential oils can be added to bath water just for pleasure alone or for therapeutic value. Either way, a long, luxurious soak in aromatic bath water is a treat for all your senses. The basic rule of thumb is to add4-8 drops of essential oil to the bath after it’s been drawn. Use your hand to agitate the water so the oil will be dispersed, then hop on in.
Healthline sponsored by Sage Health and Empowerment Center in Overton, NV.
