Lavender Ice
Recipe adapted from Hands on Healing Remedies by Stephanie L. Tourles
This may sound a lot like a cocktail or dessert, but it's actually a mentholated oil to help reduce pain and inflammation associated with bruised skin and strained muscles. The ice factor comes from the icy cool feeling the formula produces on contact, which results from the use of menthol crystals made from the frozen concentrated oil of a common mint, Mentha arvensis.
While you'll want to avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes, this formula performs double duty as an aid to help clear sinus and bronchial congestion -- just rub a small amount on the chest and bundle up, or inhale its vapors from a container.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons plus 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
2 teaspoons menthol crystals
30 drops lavender essential oil
Directions
Combine the crystals and almond oil in a small saucepan or in the top of a double boiler. Heat over low to melt the crystals, stirring now and then. When crystals are completely dissolved, remove the pan from heat and stir once more. Transfer to a clean bottle and add the essential oil. Cap the bottle and shake vigorously for 2 minutes. Label and store the bottle in a cool, dark place. Shake well before each use.
To use, gently massage a few drops onto fresh bruises and sprains. Follow with an ice pack or compress for 10 minutes. Repeat 3 to 4 times a day for the first 2 days.
Note: If hands are the area to be treated, wear gloves after each application.
