Do your feet still think it’s winter? If they’re dry and cracked from the cold weather and need a dose of spring, here’s a dual-purpose foot salve you can make yourself. You’ll not only be softening your feet and getting them ready to be seen in public, but you’ll get a good night’s sleep so you’re not walking around dead on dry, cracked feet. It’s a very bad combination.
A lack of restful sleep can create all kinds of issues that threaten your mental health and well-being, as well as physical problems that can lead to prescription addiction and substance abuse. If you happen to be one of the approximate 60 million adults in the U.S. who have suffered from either long-term or chronic insomnia, you might want to do yourself the favor of softening your feet before tucking yourself in.
Essential oils are key ingredients in this recipe and as you may have already heard, aromatherapy is no joke. In other countries, like France, and much of Western Europe, modern medicine incorporates aromatherapy for antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial purposes. The essential oils are said to have a direct pharmacological effect when you inhale them. The part of your brain connected to smell is stimulated and sends signals to the limbic system of the brain that controls emotions. Suddenly, chemicals are released and your mood changes. The combination of that stimulation and the foot massage you’ll give yourself with this luxurious salve will ready both your brain and your body for a good night’s sleep.
What you’ll need to make a 4-ounce jar:
- 10 drops Cinnamon Bark essential oil
- 20 drops Ginger essential oil
- 20 drops Peppermint essential oil
- 20 drops Lemon essential oil
- 20 drops Grapefruit essential oil
- ¼ cup Organic Coconut Oil
- ¼ cup Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Beeswax Pastilles
- ¼ teaspoon Vitamin E oil (optional)
What you have to do:
Melt the coconut, olive oil and beeswax together in warm water. Stir it every few minutes until it melts completely for about 10 to 15 minutes. While you wait, add the essential oil blend into your 4-ounce glass jar.
When the beeswax is melted, pour the mixture into the jar and let it cool. Cover it with the lid when it is completely cooled. You can keep it for about eight months, if it lasts that long.
How to use it:
Before going to sleep for the night, get into bed with your jar of salve and massage it into your feet. Have a pair of lightweight socks ready to slip on over the salve to keep the moisture in all night long. Then, get comfortable and sweet dreams!
