Epsom Salt is good as a bath soak for sore muscles, for soothing respiratory symptoms, and relaxing before bed. Make your own bath salt mix with a few drops of essential oils, then add to a warm bath for extra comfort. Epsom salt can also be a good soak to help remove splinters, or sooth tired feet.
Coconut Oil is rich in good fats that nourish the body and has natural anti-fungal and anti bacterial properties. Coconut oil has so many uses and can be used as a base in so many DIY products, from body creams, vapor rub, salves, chap stick, oil pulling, and so much more. Coconut oil is also a great carrier oil for essential oils.
Raw Honey contains natural vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants and other important natural nutrients. Scientific research from the University of California, Davis has shown that eating honey raises our antioxidant levels. Honey is considered to be one of the best natural remedies for sore throats, coughs and general cold symptoms. Make up some honey & lemon for soothing relief and extra immune support.
Baking Soda can be used for upset tummies, indigestion, bug bites, and more. Its also great in many DIY recipes from toothpaste, deodorant, and for natural home cleaning.
Apple Cider Vinegar has natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties and it can be used in many ways. Its great for sore throats, soothing digestion, and in cleansing. For sore throats, gargle with 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar with warm water as needed. Soothe digestion issues, by taking one tablespoon ACV in a glass of water.
Essential Oils are also a great addition to any natural solution kit. Here are a few basic ones to have on hand.
Lavender is considered the Swiss army knife of oils. It can be used from head to toe in so many ways, from minor cuts, burns, rashes, promoting relaxation & sleep, muscle tension, respiratory issues and more. Lavender is also great to use in many DIY recipes, for burns, cuts, diaper rash, body lotions, hair tonics, and bath salts, and sleepy time spray.
Peppermint is highly regarded for its digestive soothing properties in calming nausea, indigestion, and intestinal spasms. Peppermint also has anti inflammatory properties which provide soothing relief for tired muscles, muscle tension and headaches. It also has been used to reduce fevers, for respiratory support, as a expectorant, and sinus clearing. Peppermint mixes well with lavender, and lemon for seasonal respiratory support.
Tea Tree is known for its antiseptic and skin cleansing properties for cuts, wounds, and blemishes, and to enhance healing. To enhance its healing effect, a blend can be used with an equal part of Lavender essential oil for pain relief for the little ones. Tea tree is also great in natural cleaning around the home.
Eucalyptus is well known for its soothing aroma that opens up congested airways and calms coughs. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothes muscles and ease minor tension.
This oil is great to have during the cold & flu season. Its soothing vapors can be enjoyed via steam inhalation, diffused, in warm baths, or even added to DIY vapor rub blends.
Oregano contains two powerful natural compounds, carvacrol and thymol that have powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties. Oregano oil has been shown to be beneficial for strengthening the immune system, digestive balance, and respiratory health.
Lemon has natural antiseptic, anti-fungal, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. Lemon is also alkalizing to the body and has detoxifying properties. Lemon can be used for immune system support, fever reducer, cough relief and more. Its a great addition to many DIY recipes like cough syrup, sore throats, and natural cleaning solutions.
Clove has been shown to be the strongest anti-oxidant of any herb and essential oil. Clove also has extremely potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic properties that promote; healthy gums, kill mold & fungus, improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. Since its a strong oil it should be mixed with a carrier oil like coconut oil or other gentle oils for topical applications.
