Headache Balm

Headache Balm - this recipe comes from Everyday Roots with just a tiny change or two :-)

You will need…

-15-20 drops of peppermint oil

-10 drops of lavender oil

-2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil

-¼ cup Shea nut oil (I used shea butter)

-1 tablespoon almond oil 

-2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles/grated beeswax

Directions

Making your roots balm is easy, and takes around 20 minutes from start to finish. In a double boiler over medium heat melt ¼ cup of Shea nut oil, 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil, and 2 tablespoons of beeswax pastilles or grated beeswax together. Note from Mimi: I didn't have shea nut oil so used shea butter instead - you'll need a little more almond oil to keep your balm from being too solid.

Turn off the heat when thoroughly blended, and add 20 drops of peppermint oil, 10 drops of lavender oil, and 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil. Pour into a small container with a tightly fitting lid, and let cool and solidify.

Massage a bit onto your temples, back of neck, the pressure point between the thumb and forefinger, or anywhere that needs some soothing when you feel tense or a headache coming on. Breathe deeply.

Note: Adding more wax yields a more solid balm, whereas adding more oil yields a softer one. You can also infuse your oil to give your balm an extra boost.

Why peppermint oil: Peppermint contains menthol, and menthol produces a cooling sensation on the skin which, couples with the refreshing scent, helps relieve tension and resulting tension headaches.

Why eucalyptus oil: Fresh and invigorating, eucalyptus soothes without making you sleepy. Studies have shown the scent increases brainwave activity, reducing fatigue. Rubbed on muscles, it helps relieve tension and soreness.

Why lavender oil: Lavender is also a wonderfully soothing scent, being used in a number of studies testing the benefits of aromatherapy. Changes in brain wave patterns for people exposed to the scent suggested increased relaxation and a resulting loss of tension in muscles.

Why beeswax/Shea nut oil or butter/almond oil: All of these ingredients are what give the balm its body, and dilute the essential oils. Good and nourishing for the skin.