Everyone knows when they are about to come down with a sore throat or cold. Be it the tickle in back of your throat or slight irritation in your nose, you just know. Once you start coughing or have difficulty breathing, perhaps you grab the decongestant and lather it all over your throat and chest. Some people put it under their feet and some want to really inhale the menthol, so they rub some under their nostrils. 

If you are congested and want to breathe easier, you may look to essential oils instead of a classic vapor rub. Some essential oils, including eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils, show particular promise, while others are not as effective at relieving sinus congestion. Other research indicates that essential oils may improve symptoms related to congestion. For example, some may help reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and relieve pain. 

A Quick Note About Essential Oil Dilution

The key to using essential oils safely is proper dilution. For adults, a 5% dilution is generally safe. That means that 30 drops of essential oils per one ounce of carrier oil, or 15 drops essential oils per 10 milliliters (ml) of carrier oil. For pregnant or breastfeeding women, a 1% dilution is best. Six drops of essential oils per ounce of carrier oil, or three drops essential oils per 10 ml of carrier oil. You can use the same pregnant or breastfeeding dilution ratio for children. 

For this recipe, you will use a half-cup of olive oil, 1/8 cup of beeswax pastilles, and 150 drops of essential oils. You can choose the amount of drops you wish to use from the following list of essential oils that help promote decongestion. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

A lot of people find that peppermint oil has a cooling effect and may improve symptoms of sinusitis. Because it contains menthol, peppermint essential oil may open the airways by affecting mucus receptors in the nose. According to lab studies, peppermint oil may fight bacteria, a primary trigger of sinus congestion. You can try to add peppermint essential oil to a warm bath to help reduce stuffiness.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains alpha-sabine, a compound that exhibits anti-viral, antibacterial, and antifungal activity. Researchers believe that tea tree oil helps relieve sinus congestion by fighting bacteria and viruses in the airways. It’s also possible that tea tree oil reduces inflammation, which may bring down swelling in the sinuses. By reducing swelling you can relieve symptoms of congestion, such as runny or stuffy nose. 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus essential oil is a common ingredient in chest rubs and other over-the-counter decongestants. It shows promise as an alternative remedy for sinusitis and congestion. Similar to peppermint essential oil, you can add eucalyptus essential oil to a warm bath to promote decongestion. Eucalyptus oil contains ceneole, which was proven to be safe and effective for sinus issues in several small studies. It helped to improve symptoms of sinusitis, including nasal obstruction, headaches, and runny nose. 

Essential Oil Chest Rub Decongestant

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/8 beeswax pastilles
• 150 drops essential oils of choice

Instructions:

• In the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat, melt the olive oil and beeswax together. Stir frequently to melt evenly. 
• When the two ingredients are fully melted, remove from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. You can put it back over the heat and add more oil if the mixture is too hard, or add more beeswax if it is too soft. 
• Add the 150 drops of essential oils (your selection) and mix well to combine. Immediately pour the mixture into a four-ounce mason jar. Cover and let cool at room temperature. 
• Apply to the chest and/or the neck area during a cold to help reduce coughing and promote better breathing. 

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It’s very easy to spend lots of money on skin care products. That is especially true when products say that they can turn back the hands of time and make your skin look 20 years younger. These products state that your skin will glow like never before! Unfortunately, people get lured in by these buzzwords, use the products, and don’t experience the advertised benefits. 

What if we told you that you could save some money and make y4our own face serum that has anti-aging properties. When you make your own serum, you know exactly what goes into it. There are no problematic fragrances or added ingredients that detract from the primary ingredients. When you make your own serum, you have the freedom to customize ingredients based on your skin type. For example, if the carrier oil in this recipe doesn’t work for you, swap it out for one that does. The same can be said for the essential oils. 

As a quick note, customizing your blend is very doable, but we recommend that you keep the same ratios for a two-ounce bottle. You can increase the amount of essential oils by a few drops or so, but be mindful with your use of tea tree oil. Tea tree oil can cause skin irritation, so do a small patch test on your arm or something to ensure that you don’t have a negative reaction.

Argan Oil

Argan oil is primarily known for nourishing dry, dull skin, but it may benefit people with acne-prone skin as well. Dermatologists consider argan oil to be non-comedogenic, so it will not leave the skin feeling greasy. It is safe and beneficial for all skin types. The rich antioxidant content helps protect the skin from environmental damage. Argan oil contains vitamin E and polyphenols, which help soften the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. 

Argan oil contains fatty acids, including oleic and linoleic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Not only does that help soothe irritated skin, but it also works to reduce the appearance of blemishes. Another reason why argan oil is great for all skin types is because of the moisturizing properties. People with oily skin will find that it is lightweight, while those with dry skin will find that it makes skin feel soft, supple, and highly moisturized. 

Rosehip Oil

Is rosehip oil the universal skin savior? Some say it is, but we’ll let you be the judge of that. Rosehip oil contains a lot of omega 3, 6, 7, and 9 fatty acids, all of which are necessary for skin repair and regeneration. Rosehip oil may help reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars and may work to brighten overall skin tone. Similar to argan oil, rosehip oil is beneficial for all skin types, even the most sensitive. 

If dryness is your concern, rosehip oil may do the trick! Various creams may provide hydration, but rosehip oil goes above and beyond by adding moisture and sealing it in too. The fatty acids in rosehip oil help the skin retain water for longer, which helps to keep it soft and supple. Finally, rosehip oil has been described as a gentle alternative to retinol. Rosehip oil contains a small amount of vitamin A, which gives it the regenerative properties. Working with the other antioxidants, rosehip oil may help reduce sagging skin and fine lines. 

DIY Face Serum

Ingredients:

• 2-ounce amber glass bottle with dropper
• 20 drops frankincense essential oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 5 drops tea tree oil
• 5 drops rose essential oil 
• Argan oil
• Rosehip oil

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to the glass bottle and fill the bottle two-thirds of the way with argan oil.
• Fill the rest of the bottle with rosehip oil, screw on the lid, and shake well to combine. 
• It is best to apply this serum at night before bed. Add a dime-size amount to your palms and gently apply all over your face, but be careful to avoid the eye area.

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Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has been commonly used to treat acne, athlete’s foot, nail fungus, and insect bites.

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When the weather is cold and the air is dry, it is very common to experience dry, itchy skin. This is especially true if you run the heater in your house during the winter. Staying warm is essential, but transitioning from the cold, dry air outside to the warm, dry air inside contributes to itching and dryness. That’s why moisturizers are necessary, but using the right one will change how you feel in your own skin. 

If you regularly moisturize, you probably know that you use more during the winter. Besides the outdoor and indoor air, the heavier clothing you wear in the winter can cause significant chafing. Maybe you reapply your moisturizer, only to feel dry again in an hour. Fortunately, there is a remedy in the form of the DIY body oil recipe in this article. Using a body oil in place of your typical lotion or moisturizer will help soothe dry or itchy skin and make your skin feel silky smooth. How does this DIY body oil do that? The ingredients nourish your skin and help it retain water, and you can learn more about how they do that below. 

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated coconut oil differs from extra virgin coconut oil in that it goes through a process that makes it remain liquid at room temperature. Extra virgin coconut oil is usually solid at room temperature, unless it is in a warm environment. Fractionated coconut oil is made by separating different types of fats in regular coconut oil, and two medium-chain fatty acids remain. It is one of the most versatile carrier oils available and absorbs quickly into the skin. It helps to seal moisture into the skin without leaving a greasy feeling. 

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil exhibits numerous health benefits for the hair and skin. It is especially beneficial for people with dry skin, itchy skin, eczema, or psoriasis. Derived from vitamin E, vitamin E oil can be applied directly to the skin or added to lotions, creams, or gels. It exhibits antioxidant properties that may fight inflammation and other properties that enhance moisture. Vitamin E oil is a common additive to moisturizers because it helps prevent dry, flaky skin. Some studies suggest that vitamin E oil provides temporary relief from itching caused by dry skin. Additionally, one study suggests that topical application of vitamin E oil may improve psoriasis symptoms. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Dry skin can overproduce sebum, the skin’s natural oil, to compensate for the dryness. That can lead to clogged pores and blemishes. Lavender essential oil exhibits antibacterial properties that can help kill acne-causing bacteria that may inhabit your pores. It also works to moisturize the skin and is non-comedogenic for pores. It is also an anti-inflammatory superstar, working to soothe irritated or reddened skin from the sun. 

Tea Tree Oil

Dry skin is no laughing matter and it can increase the risk of cracking, flaking, or even bleeding if you scratch too much. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe dry skin. The best way to enhance moisture with tea tree oil is to mix it with a carrier oil and then apply it to the skin. Tea tree oil is very potent, so don’t apply it directly to the skin, as that may cause further irritation. 

DIY Body Oil With Lavender

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fractionated coconut oil
• 40 drops tea tree oil
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 8-ounce jar with lid

Instructions:

• Pour the fractionated coconut oil into a mixing cup and then add the tea tree oil and vitamin E oil. 
• Finally, drop in the lavender essential oil and stir well to combine the oils. Pour this mixture into a clean eight-ounce jar and screw on the lid. 
• If you have a little left over, treat your skin well right away!
• This is a wonderful body oil to use right after you shower. Make sure to shake up the oil before you massage it gently into the skin while your skin is still moist.

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Do you find yourself breathing out of one open nostril when you lay your head to rest at night? If you could only get that one nostril clear, right? You wouldn’t hear that nostril whistle when you inhale or exhale! Although seasonal allergies affect a lot of people, there are many natural ways to assist with better, easier breathing. One of the easiest ways to do that is by inhaling the essential oil aromas from this DIY sinus relief candle. 

Candles make great holiday gifts, just in case anyone is trying to keep their budget down for holiday gift giving. Not everyone enjoys an aromatherapy diffuser, but they may enjoy candles year round. It comes down to personal preference, of course. What doesn’t come down to personal preference are the essential oils in this DIY candle. They work to relieve congestion and help promote easier breathing. Read on to learn more about the three powerful essential oils in this sinus relief candle. 

Tea Tree Oil

The smell of tea tree oil is intoxicating and it exhibits powerful antibacterial properties. According to experts, tea tree oil fights two potential causes of sinus congestion: bacteria and viruses. A 2015 review found that tea tree oil contains alpha-sabine, a compound that provides antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Tea tree oil may also work to reduce sinus swelling by lowering inflammation. Relieving sinus swelling often helps to get rid of stuffy or runny nose. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

A lot of people find that inhaling peppermint essential oil’s aroma feels great when they have clogged sinuses. Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which is a compound that affects mucus receptors in the nostrils. Menthol offers a cooling effect, which may potentially open the airways and relieve congestion. Animal studies found that peppermint oil may reduce inflammation and lab studies indicated that peppermint oil may fight bacteria. It’s important to note that these results were not confirmed in human studies, as human studies are still necessary. 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Many over-the-counter decongestant products, including chest rubs, contain eucalyptus essential oil. A lot of people believe that this essential oil can relieve cold and cough symptoms, including sinus congestion or general stuffiness. Eucalyptus essential oil contains cineole, a compound that may be effective in treatment for sinus issues, but more studies are necessary. Cineole may relieve headaches, runny nose, and nasal obstruction, all of which are symptoms of sinusitis. 

DIY Sinus Relief Candle

Ingredients:

• Candle wick
• Candle wick glue dots
• 1.5 cups natural soy wax flakes
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 20 drops peppermint essential oil
• 15 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Apply a glue dot to the metal tab on the end of the candle wick. Place that tab at the bottom center of a glass jar (an eight-ounce jar is great for candle making). Set this jar aside.
• Place the wax flakes and coconut oil in a glass, microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup and microwave in 30-second increments until the wax and oil are fully melted. Add the essential oils to the melted wax and coconut oil and stir to combine. 
• Before you pour the melted mixture into the jar, consider tying the whisk to a stick and laying the stick across the lid. Center the wick to make it nice and beautiful.
• Carefully pour the mixture into the jar and allow it to harden at room temperature. Once the wax is set, trim the wick so that at least a half-inch sticks out above the top of the candle. All you have to do next is light the wick and enjoy decongestion.

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Don’t you love when you can make something that is both practical and beneficial? This lemon and peppermint hand scrub is exactly that! It works to exfoliate your hands and leaves them feeling refreshed and incredibly soft. Want to know the best part? You can whip up a batch of this scrub in about five minutes!

If you like DIY homemade skin care products, then this is a recipe you are going to love. It is much simpler to make than a whipped body butter or skin salve, so it is a great entry point to DIY beauty products. Yes, it is easy to make, but what is the purpose or need for a hand scrub? You regularly wash your hands, which can dry them out, especially if you use very hot water. To avoid cracking or dryness, you want to exfoliate them to remove dead skin and hydrate them at the same time. We’ll explain how the hand scrub does that by highlighting some of the standout ingredients and what they do for your skin.

Jojoba Oil

The molecular structure of jojoba oil is nearly identical to the composition of sebum, an oil that the skin naturally produces. It contains anti-inflammatory compounds, vitamins, and antioxidants that help to nourish the skin and fight free radicals. Unlike other oils, jojoba oil is actually a wax ester, so the skin absorbs it easily without conflict. Research shows that jojoba oil can be effective in easing or treating common skin conditions like acne, rash, dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Believe it or not, sweet almond oil offers mild protection for ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage. It contributes to softer, smoother looking skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, due to the vitamin E content. Additionally, sweet almond oil contains fatty acids that help the skin retain moisture, helping soothe chapped, dry, or irritated skin. 

Fine Sea Salt

This is the exfoliating ingredient in the hand scrub. Sea salt works to cleanse, heal, and nourish the skin, but make sure that it is finely ground. Coarsely ground salts or Kosher salts can be harsh on delicate skin. If you know that your skin is sensitive, consider swapping this ingredient for brown sugar, which is a wonderfully gentle exfoliant. 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains a number of antioxidant compounds, a couple of which have demonstrated an ab slitty to kill certain bacteria. Terpinen-4-ol is one of the compounds in tea tree oil that increases white blood cell activity. That activation helps the immune system fight off foreign invaders. The germ-fighting properties makes tea tree oil a valuable natural remedy for people with fungal skin conditions because it works to kill the infection and promote healing.

Lemon Essential Oil

Not only does lemon essential oil smell marvelous and zesty, but it also exhibits powerful antibacterial properties. Studies show that lemon essential oil has properties that may help clear up the skin by killing harmful viruses and bacteria. Plus, it reduces inflammation and the smell of it may help you fight exhaustion. 

Lemon And Peppermint Antibacterial Hand Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fine sea salt
• 3 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• 3 tablespoons pure coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon liquid castile soap
• 1/2 teaspoon tea tree oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil (optional)
• 5-10 drops lemon essential oil
• Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

• In a small mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients and then spoon the mixture into a jar or desired storage container with a lid. 
• When it comes time to use the hand scrub, scoop a small amount into the palm of your hand and gently rub it all over for 20 seconds. 
• Wash your hands with lukewarm water to rinse away. Use once or twice daily and avoid introducing water into the scrub container. 
• Store the scrub in a cool, dry place for up to a couple months. If the scrub starts to smell rancid, then it is time to throw it out and make a new batch.

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The dry heat of summer can take a toll on the skin, especially if you spend the majority of your days outside. Salty beach air and sand or the chlorine in a pool can wreak havoc on the skin. While the good times may have ensued, your skin pays the price, feeling itchy and dry at the end of the day. How do you restore hydration, especially to your face, without using harmful products? 

This homemade cooling mist helps to rejuvenate the face, neck, and chest, giving your skin the hydration it needs to look the best. Should you incorporate it into your daytime routine while you’re outside, it may help to moisturize the skin. Protection is key if you don’t want your skin to dry out. You can also use it as an after-sun spray if you got a little more sun that you wanted to. Just keep a bottle with you at all times and you can treat yourself to a cooling mist whenever you want!

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has several cosmetic benefits. It may help to stimulate blood flow near hair follicles to produce hair growth and help treat dark spots. Tea tree oil also has a moisturizing effect on the skin, helping to fight the drying effects of the sun. If you experience itching or dryness after a long summer day, tea tree oil may work to reduce irritation and itching. 

Frankincense Essential Oil

Since ancient times, people have used frankincense essential oil for its many health benefits and beautifying properties. Dermatologists agree that frankincense oil tends to be safe for all skin types, especially mature complexions. It is a luxurious oil that may boost the skin’s radiance, especially after using a cleanser and moisturizer. After a long day, applying or misting frankincense oil onto the skin with the rest of the ingredients in this spray may restore your skin’s texture. 

Aloe Vera

Skin experts say that aloe vera has a few primary benefits for soothing the skin. It works to soothe itchiness or irritation, calming inflamed or irritated skin that may result from extended sun exposure. When you are in the sun for a long time, it’s possible for the skin to lose moisture via transepidermal water loss. This happens when the skin gets dehydrated and inflamed. The phytosterols in aloe vera may prevent transepidermal water loss, which is especially important for sunburnt skin. Finally, aloe vera works to hydrate the skin and provide a cooling effect. Plus, the polysaccharides in aloe are known for their hydrating benefits. 

Witch Hazel

Indigenous to North America, witch hazel is a tree-like plant, from which extract is derived either from the bark or leaves. The bark and leaves are distilled to bring out the plant’s active compounds. Witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory and astringent properties provide a tightening effect on the skin. This is great for soothing puffiness, redness, general irritation, and skin tone. It may also sop up excess oil via the antioxidant-rich tannins. This is why witch hazel is a common ingredient in toners. 

Homemade Cooling Summer Face Mist

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup distilled water
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or fractionated coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon witch hazel
• 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
• 4 drops frankincense essential oil
• 2 drops tea tree oil
• 4-ounce glass spray bottle with mist sprayer 

Instructions:

• Pour the distilled water into the glass spray bottle. Use a funnel if you need to, or use a glass measuring cup with a pour spout. 
• Melt the coconut oil and pour it into the bottle. You can also use fractionated coconut oil so that it remains liquified. 
• Add the witch hazel, aloe vera gel, and essential oils to the glass bottle. Screw on the lid and shake well to combine. 
• Use the face mist as needed, but make sure to shake the bottle before each use.

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If you are the victim of a flaky scalp, you understand the struggle. Although the white flakes on your shoulders are not cause for serious concern, they can be annoying and embarrassing. Dandruff is occasionally difficult to treat, but one way to address the problem is the use of essential oils. A 2015 review of studies found that several essential oils, which we’ll detail in this article, can be very helpful in controlling dandruff. 

Although white flakes of any sort can arise, excess oil is what causes dandruff. Malassezia is a yeast that naturally exists on the scalp and feeds off the oil that the scalp produces. The excess of yeast creates yellow-is flakes that are hard to prevent. It’s important to note that dry scalp and dandruff are not the same thing. Your skin flakes off if your scalp is dry, and that can stem from using the wrong shampoo, soap, stress, or the weather. Dandruff may seem similar to dry scalp, but it results from an overproduction of oil and overgrowth of malassezia. 

Many people with dandruff resort to anti-dandruff shampoos, but you can go a more natural route for experimentation. Several essential oils exhibit health properties that may help relieve symptoms of dandruff or improve overall scalp health. If you do experiment with the following essential oils, make sure to dilute them in a carrier oil prior to application. Additionally, always do a patch test on a small area of your arm to ensure that you don’t have a negative reaction. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of peppermint essential oil make it great for soothing an itchy scalp. Researchers note that this essential oil helps absorb excess oils on the scalp, which is why it exists in complex hair care formulas. Although it isn’t an anti-fungal treatment, it does work to clarify the scalp and improve overall scalp health. By absorbing excess oils on the scalp, some beauty experts believe that peppermint essential oil may help your dandruff problem.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil is another oil that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help control dandruff. One study found that a solution containing 10% lemongrass essential oil significantly reduced dandruff symptoms in participants. These participants applied the solution twice a day for seven and then 14 days. After seven days, there was a 15% reduction in dandruff symptoms. By day 14, the effects increased even more.

Rosemary Essential Oil

According to many studies, rosemary essential oil may help promote hair growth after consistent use. Additional studies note that rosemary essential oil has astringent, anti-fungal, and decongestant properties, all of which reduce excess oils, build-up, and flakes that accompany dandruff. The anti-fungal properties work to address the overactive fungal activity on the scalp, which is the origin of dandruff. 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is one of the most commonly recommended essential oils to remedy dandruff. Studies show that tea tree oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that work to ward off foreign invaders that try to attack your scalp. Tea tree oil also has antiseptic properties that work to alleviate the root cause of dandruff. You can add five to 10 drops of tea tree oil to eight ounces of shampoo. When you use this shampoo, let it sit on your hair before rinsing. That way the scalp can absorb the benefits. 

Bergamot Essential Oil

Many hair care products can cause build-up on the scalp that can clog your pores, increasing the risk of dandruff. The antimicrobial nature of bergamot essential oil helps reduce that build-up and reduce the growth of bacteria. Add a few drops of this essential oil to your shampoo and massage it into your scalp. Let it sit on your head for five minutes before reining out. 

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil is known for its cleaning and antiseptic properties, making it a popular ingredient in DIY, non-toxic cleaning products. Those same properties work to gently cleanse the scalp and help remove oily debris. If oiliness contributes to your issues, or you are prone to acne, lemon essential oil may be the perfect oil for your scalp. Just make sure to dilute it in a carrier oil or shampoo for application.

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If you have sensitive skin or allergies and are prone to rashes or inflammation, you’re probably used to experimenting with anti-itch creams. Some store bought creams are effective, but they can irritate people with sensitive skin. So what do you do if the solution to your problem is also causing new ones? 

One of the best ways to nourish the skin is to use natural ingredients. Not only do ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and calendula oil relieve itchiness, but they also offer protection, hydration, and beneficial nutrients. Ideally, you want the skin to absorb the ingredients quickly and efficiently. Without any preservatives or harmful ingredients, the anti-itch cream in this article can address the issue and soothe the skin. The standout ingredients are detailed below. 

Beeswax

Beeswax can help reduce itching and inflammation, especially when used in combination with other ingredients like coconut or almond oil. It works to moisturize the skin and reduce the severity of eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. Both eczema and psoriasis are conditions that cause dry, itchy, or inflamed skin. Beeswax works to combat this irritation by forming a protective barrier on the skin, helping to seal moisture into the skin. It’s also a humectant, meaning it attracts and binds water. Both of these qualities help the skin remain hydrated, which can help soothe flare-ups from either eczema or psoriasis. 

Shea Butter

The great thing about shea butter is that you get the benefits of several ingredients all in one. Shea butter is especially helpful for dry, reactive skin, according to dermatologists. That’s why you typically see shea butter in lotions for people with dry skin. Shea butter, on its own, contains fatty acids that work to lubricate the skin and create a protective barrier that locks moisture in. You can use shea butter for any irritation, from sunburns and chapped lips to bug bites and more. Because shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps ease swelling and redness in the skin.

Calendula Oil

Extracted from marigold flowers, calendula oil is often paired with alternative or complementary treatments. Calendula oil exhibits anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, making it useful for soothing eczema, relieving diaper rash, and accelerating wound healing. Historically, calendula oil has been used as an antiseptic. Although there isn’t a lot of research to support it, anecdotal reports claim that calendula oil is effective at treating eczema. Calendula oil may also relieve itchiness associated with psoriasis. It works to promote skin hydration and firmness, helping to improve the overall appearance of the skin. 

Homemade Anti-Itch Cream

Ingredients:

• 1 cup calendula oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax pellets
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder
• 2-3 teaspoons bentonite clay
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Add the calendula oil, beeswax pellets, and shea butter to the top of a double boiler. Stir to combine until fully melted. 
• Once these ingredients are melted, remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. You don’t want the mixture to set, but you don’t want it to be piping hot, either. 
• Transfer the melted mixture into a heat-safe glass bowl and stir in the arrowroot powder and bentonite clay. Make sure to use a wooden utensil while mixing. 
• Add the peppermint essential oil and tea tree oil and mix well before pouring into jars. Once fully cooled, screw on the lids and store the jars in a cool, dry place. 
• Use when ready, but make sure to do a small patch test prior to slathering it on your whole body.

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For thousands of years, different civilizations have used plant extracts for their health benefits. Nowadays, essential oils serve as alternatives to Western medicine. Tea tree oil is no exception, offering myriad health benefits, especially for the hair and skin. It helps to clean the hair, keep it strong, reduce dandruff, and help get rid of skin infections, acne, and athlete’s foot. 

What Is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, which is native to Australia. It is commonly used as a pure essential oil in various skin and hair care products. Tea tree oil exhibits antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it has gained so much attention in the health and beauty world. It is an effective acne and dandruff fighter because many of the same bacteria that tea tree oil fights on the face exist on the scalp. 

When it comes to using tea tree oil on the hair and scalp, make sure that you use an essential oil, not a fragrance oil. Fragrance oils do not offer the same health benefits as essential oils, which are obtained via hydrodistillation, steam distillation, pressing plants, or dry distillation. Fragrance oils are manufactured in a lab in most cases, so avoid those if you want to reap the following hair care benefits. 

May Cleanse The Scalp

Looking to get your scalp extra clean? Tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties may be able to fight harmful germs that live on the scalp, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Health experts say that these microorganisms can disrupt the normal function of the scalp’s glands. Additionally, an overgrowth of bacteria, including staphylococcus or strains of streptococcus can cause folliculitis, cellulitis, or impetigo, all of which increase the risk of hair loss. 

Fights Dandruff

Dandruff is usually caused by yeast that infects the scalp. The antibacterial and antifungal properties in tea tree oil have been proven to treat the source of dandruff. Participants in one study used a tea tree oil shampoo for one month. By the end of the month, the participants that used the tea tree oil shampoo showed a 41% improvement in dandruff symptoms. Researchers also noted that tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties were effective at relieving the itchiness associated with dandruff. This is because tea tree oil fights the flake-forming yeast.

May Stimulate Hair Growth

Inflammation of the scalp happens to be one of the leading causes of hair loss. Researchers attribute the anti-inflammatory properties in tea tree oil to the antioxidant content. By reducing inflammation in the scalp, tea tree oil helps foster a healthy environment for new hair to grow. Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct link between tea tree oil and new hair growth. However, there is evidence that by improving scalp health and reducing dandruff, new hair can be healthier and thicker. A 2013 study found that a mixture of tea tree oil and minoxidil (brand name Rogaine) was more effective at increasing hair thickness, count, and weight than minoxidil alone. 

So Long To Head Lice

Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4 and 1,8-cineole, both of which exhibit insecticidal properties. In fact, these compounds have an ability to kill lice in the nymph and adult life stage. They also prevent lice eggs from hatching. Terpinen-4 and 1,8-cineole dissolve the gummy texture and loosen up existing eggs from the hair shaft. At that point, you can comb the lice out of your hair. One study found that tea tree oil was an effective holistic treatment for getting rid of lice.

How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Hair

You can use tea tree oil in a couple ways on your hair and scalp. You can use it in its pure essential oil form, or as an active ingredient in shampoo or conditioner. Because tea tree oil is highly potent, you have to minimize the risk of irritation by diluting it with a carrier oil before topical application. As with any other new ingredient in your skin care, test a small skin patch before applying to your whole head. You can also add a couple drops of tea tree oil to your palm before dispensing your favorite shampoo into your hand. Massage into your scalp and feel the tingle that stimulates the scalp.

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