Aromatherapy applications for the summer
Summer is almost at its peak and with holidays fast approaching, here are some holistic tips for you!
Some of the typical summer complaints include overexposure to the sun, sweating, heat rash, sunburn, bee stings, bug bites, allergies and tiredness.
Although many of us are well aware of the above and take protective measures, it’s always good to remind ourselves about prevention and symptoms, especially when hot and sunny days can take us by surprise in the UK!
What can you do when you’ve spent too much time in the sun?
Sunburn
Try aloe vera gel as it has a cooling effect, it’s readily absorbed
and leaves a very light residue that will continue to soothe the
skin.
Or use pure coconut oil which again has a cooling effect, is rich
in minerals and will effectively hydrate the skin and is useful
for dry and brittle hair.
Insect bites and stings
Spritzes or sprays can provide immediate relief from stings and insect bites, and also can help you to cool down on hot days. Essential oils can be added to purified water. If you don’t know much about essential oils, find a qualified aromatherapist who can easily prepare natural spritzes and sprays for you and your individual needs.
Or if you don’t have time to contact an aromatherapist, a great alternative is a hydrosol which can be used on its own and which has its own therapeutic properties. For example, peppermint and spearmint hydrosols have cooling effects. However, use with caution in case you suffer with any allergies or skin sensitivities. Always check the product labels.
Essential oils which can be applied to the skin
(used topically) in small amounts:
- Lavender essential oil is considered effective on bee/wasp stings. It is one of the most versatile oils in Aromatherapy. It is non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitising.
*Caution: avoid using lavender essential oil if you suffer with clinical low blood pressure or take medication for hypotension, or during pregnancy.
- Tea tree essential oil is considered effective for insect bites, and has been used as a local antiseptic for cuts and abrasions, fungal feet infections like athlete’s foot or infections of the nail (onychomycosis) – use cotton buds when applying to the affected area to prevent spreading any infection.
* Caution: Tea tree is generally safe, though can irritate the skin in some cases, especially when applied neat.
Travel / motion sickness – Traveling by car, train, boat or
airplane this summer?
If you or your loved ones suffer with motion,
travel sickness, one of the simple ways to
alleviate your symptoms is to put a drop of
one of the following essential oils on a tissue
and inhale when needed.
Excellent essential oils to use are ginger,
peppermint, pink grapefruit, and orange.
Keep these tips in mind, as well as staying well hydrated
as you enjoy your summer!
Katie Pomklova is a qualified Aromatherapist, Reflexologist and Massage Therapist, delivering therapies and relevant advice to clients with common ailments and general health issues, as well as specialising in supporting people diagnosed with cancer during and after their conventional treatments.
To book your appointment with Katie at the Stepping Stones Clinic, contact Katie directly at katie@goodenergytherapies.co.uk or on 0798 421 7666.