Looking for more natural ways to heal? This four ingredient chest rub is simple to make and incorporates the medicinal benefits of both eucalyptus and peppermint essential oil. Eucalyptus Oil is antimicrobial, meaning that it works great against bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. It’s definitely a “must have” to keep on hand, especially during cold and flu season, as it's great in treating respiratory ailments like coughs and runny noses. It's also great for sore muscles and when diluted with a carrier oil, can aid in skin inflammation like cuts, burns, sores, and bites. Peppermint Oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties. It can help alleviate discomfort from headaches (migraines), nausea, and tummy issues, as well as provides respiratory support.
Remember when choosing your essential oil, it's best to use therapeutic grade as these oils are distilled (some are cold pressed) and they come directly from the plant matter. The way the plant material is harvested, the distillation process, and the after care process of the oil is what sets this grade of oils apart from the basic aromatherapy oils. Always make sure that when you are using therapeutic grade essential oils on the skin that they are always diluted in a carrier oil. In this simple recipe, organic coconut oil will serve as our carrier oil.
Chest Rub Ingredients:
¼ cup of organic coconut oil
1 Tablespoon Beeswax
20 Drops Eucalyptus Oil
10 drops Peppermint Oil
***You can incorporate other essential oils like rosemary, lavender, orange, and lemon. This is YOUR creation, so add what you feel called to!***
Glass containers, metal tins, or round deodorant sticks can be used for storage.
It’s best to create this simple rub by utilizing the double boiler method. Begin by filling the bottom pot with a couple inches of water. Then place your “top pot” on the bottom pot. Add your organic coconut oil to the top pot and turn your stove on to low heat Remember, the double boiler method utilizes steam from the water in the bottom pan to help melt the ingredients in your top pot. Once your coconut oil has completely liquified, add in your beeswax, and gently stir to help it melt. Once it has melted you can remove it from the heat and add your essential oils, make sure you stir the mixture during this part of the process to help incorporate them. Now pour into your container of choice and let cool and firm up.
Next time you have a cough (or even sore muscles) you can utilize this simple, easy homemade rub.
As always, we are not medical professionals and are not providing medical advice. Before incorporating herbs medicinally in your life, it's always best to check with your personal healthcare team/providers, especially if you take medicines to check for any interactions.