PART 3. THE REMEDIES
BODY CARE
SPIDER VEINS/VARICOSE VEINS
Appearing as blue and purple lines, usually in the lower legs, spider veins look unsightly and varicose veins often bring aching and throbbing with them. Herbal remedies, support hose, and leg elevation relieve symptoms, but unfortunately don’t make the network of veins disappear. See your dermatologist about conventional treatments that can remove them completely.
Lavender–Witch Hazel Spritz
YIELD: ABOUT 8 OUNCES
STORAGE: GLASS BOTTLE WITH SPRAY CAP
TIME: 5 MINUTES
Witch hazel tones and tightens skin, while lavender helps to alleviate pain and inflammation.
1 (8-ounce) bottle alcohol-free witch hazel extract
32 drops lavender essential oil
1.In a glass bottle, combine the witch hazel extract and lavender essential oil.
2.Cap tightly, then shake well.
3.Spray onto your legs each morning and evening, massaging lightly afterward.
4.Use as often as needed to keep your legs feeling comfortable. Store in a cool, dark place between uses.
Package in 3-ounce bottles and stash in your carry-on or gym bag for extra relief during travel or long days on your feet.
Calendula–Chamomile Leg Liniment
YIELD: ABOUT 8 OUNCES
STORAGE: GLASS BOTTLE
TIME: 5 MINUTES
Calendula and chamomile ease inflammation, while rosemary, lavender, and witch hazel nix discomfort and swelling. Double down on symptoms by massaging the herbs into the skin longer, which increases circulation to the affected areas.
4 ounces alcohol-free witch hazel extract
4 ounces calendula oil
16 drops chamomile essential oil
16 drops lavender essential oil
8 drops rosemary essential oil
1.In a glass bottle, combine all the ingredients.
2.Shake well before each use.
3.With your fingertips, apply about ½ teaspoon of the liniment to each leg. Massage using firm, upward strokes.
4.Use this twice daily. Store in a cool, dark place.
Geranium–Cypress Massage Blend
YIELD: ABOUT 4 OUNCES
STORAGE: GLASS BOTTLE
TIME: 5 MINUTES
Give legs instant relief with this circulation-enhancing essential oil duo that knocks out pain and discomfort fast. Results are heightened the longer you massage.
4 ounces argan oil
32 drops geranium essential oil
12 drops cypress essential oil
1.In a glass bottle, combine the argan oil with the geranium and cypress essential oils.
2.Cap tightly and shake for 20 seconds to combine.
3.Using your fingertips, apply a thin layer of the blend to the affected areas. Massage using firm, upward strokes.
4.Repeat once or twice daily. Store in a cool, dark place.