With Autumn's arrival, and the start of a new school year there will naturally follow a new host of cold & flu bugs and exposure to all sorts of other germs. Of course our best course of action is to keep our immune systems strong by eating well, decreasing stress, washing our hands and getting plenty of rest.
During the coming winter months when our bodies are vulnerable to colds and flu, herbs can help keep us healthy.
Today I'm making one of my favorite natural cold remedies to have on hand this winter:
Herbal Vapor Balm
I got this recipe from Mountain Rose Herbs and I just LOVE it!
Interestingly enough, two of the common active ingredients in commercially-made vapor rubs are Eucalyptus essential oil and Menthol. But, the classic ointments also contain things like Petroleum and Turpentine oil. Luckily, we can make a homemade version utilizing all-natural elements and botanicals!
- 1/2 cup organic Olive Oil
- 1/2 – 1 tsp organic Menthol Crystals
- 1 oz Beeswax, coarsely chopped or use pastilles
- 15 drops organic Eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops organic Peppermint essential oil
- 10 drops organic Rosemary essential oil
I got this recipe from Mountain Rose Herbs and I just LOVE it!
Interestingly enough, two of the common active ingredients in commercially-made vapor rubs are Eucalyptus essential oil and Menthol. But, the classic ointments also contain things like Petroleum and Turpentine oil. Luckily, we can make a homemade version utilizing all-natural elements and botanicals!
- 1/2 cup organic Olive Oil
- 1/2 – 1 tsp organic Menthol Crystals
- 1 oz Beeswax, coarsely chopped or use pastilles
- 15 drops organic Eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops organic Peppermint essential oil
- 10 drops organic Rosemary essential oil
- 2 drops organic Tea Tree essential oil
- 2 drops organic Thyme essential oil
Heat the Olive oil and beeswax in a double boiler until the beeswax has melted. Remove from heat and allow to cool a little. Add Menthol crystals (1/2 tsp for a gentler balm, 1 tsp for a stronger product) and essential oils, stir, and quickly pour into jars. Immediately place lids loosely over the jars so that the oils do not escape. Note: The menthol crystals may be irritating when inhaled so use in a well ventilated area or wear a mask if needed.
- 2 drops organic Thyme essential oil
Heat the Olive oil and beeswax in a double boiler until the beeswax has melted. Remove from heat and allow to cool a little. Add Menthol crystals (1/2 tsp for a gentler balm, 1 tsp for a stronger product) and essential oils, stir, and quickly pour into jars. Immediately place lids loosely over the jars so that the oils do not escape. Note: The menthol crystals may be irritating when inhaled so use in a well ventilated area or wear a mask if needed.
No comments:
Post a Comment