Summer is finally here, and many of us are gearing up for holidays or spending more time outdoors, soaking up every moment in the sunshine. However, with the warmer weather and rising temperatures, we're more susceptible to sun-related issues like heatstroke and prickly heat. To help you enjoy your summer naturally and safely, here are my favourite natural remedies using essential oils for four common types of heat-related discomfort.
1. Prickly Heat Essential Oil RemedyPrickly heat, a rash of tiny, itchy blisters caused by blocked sweat glands, can affect any part of the body in hot weather. To soothe the irritation, try to stay cool and expose the area to air. For instant relief, apply this remedy:
- 6 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
- 6 drops Lavender essential oil
- 6 drops Chamomile essential oil
Dilute in a teaspoon of alcohol and shake in a quarter of a liter of spring water. Alternatively, take a warm bath with 4 drops each of Eucalyptus and Lavender essential oils.
2. Healing Sunburn Naturally
Sunburn can be incredibly painful, and despite our best efforts, it happens to all of us. Lavender essential oil is a miraculous treatment. First, remove the heat from the skin by immersing the burn in cold water for at least ten minutes, adding ice if possible. Then apply:
- 1 drop Lavender essential oil
Apply the lavender oil neat to the entire affected area. You may be surprised how far one drop can go! If lavender isn’t available, eucalyptus oil can also help. By morning, you’ll notice significant improvement, but avoid the sun for the next two days and always wear sunscreen.
3. Essential Oil Remedy for Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur during exercise in hot conditions, due to electrolyte loss and dehydration. To alleviate them, massage the legs with:
- 2 drops Geranium essential oil
- 3 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
Dilute in 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and apply.
4. Natural Remedy for Heatstroke
Heat exhaustion, if left untreated, can lead to heatstroke, a potentially life-threatening condition. If body temperature exceeds 104°F (40°C), it’s crucial to bring it down immediately and continue treatment for at least 48 hours to prevent serious complications.
Immerse the body in cold water infused with:
- 4 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
- 4 drops Lavender essential oil
You can also pour icy water directly onto the body while applying neat eucalyptus oil to the temples and back of the neck. Move the affected person to a cool, indoor area and sponge down frequently with ice-cold water over the next 48 hours. Ensure they drink plenty of water, adding a teaspoon of salt per liter to rehydrate.
I hope these four essential oil remedies help you stay safe, natural, and worry-free this summer.
Talk soon,
Bella x