I just love this time of year! The choices for footwear are endless. Strappy sandals. T-strap block heels. Colorful pumps. Espadrille wedges. Pretty much anything goes!
With all the fun footwear choices, sometimes we push the edge! We either stand too long, walk a bit too far or do a bit too much.
Even in our most comfy pair of shoes, our feet would be sore, tired and inflamed.
Ever been there?
If yes, then perhaps essential oils can help!
Just as the choices for summer footwear are plenty, so are the choices for pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory essential oils.
Below are just a few of some essential oils that can provide relief.
:: Peppermint.
Peppermint essential oil increases circulation, stops muscle spasms, and is also a pain reliever.
:: German Blue Chamomile.
German Blue Chamomile is an intensely blue, spicy-scented essential oil. It's best used for pain, muscle soreness and spasms, inflammation and sprains.
:: Helichrysum.
For decades, Helichrysum essential oil has been successfully used in Europe for profound pain relief. It reduces inflammation and relaxes tight muscles and connective tissue, among other actions.
:: Marjoram.
Known as the “happiness herb” and the “joy of the mountains,” marjoram has strong sedative properties. The essential oil is excellent in treating stiffness, muscle spasms and arthritis pain.
:: Rosemary.
Rosemary essential oil is promoted for its ability to relieve pain, which is why it's widely when treating muscle pains and even arthritis.
:: Ginger.
Ginger essential oil has been shown to inhibit the synthesis of eicosanoids, which are chemical signalers involved in the sensation of pain.
Here are a few ways to use essential oils to help alleviate foot pain.
:: Massage
Mix 10 to 12 drops of essential oil with one ounce of carrier oil. The most recommended carrier oil for this method is coconut oil as it is clear, light and does not oxidize. Massage the mixture onto the effected area. Keep in mind that “hot” oils such as peppermint can bring strong sensations to the skin, so apply with care.
:: Soak
Add one cup of Epsom salt and 8-10 drops of essential oil to a basin or bucket. Fill with warm water and immerse your feet for 15 minutes.
:: Compress
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water. Add 3 to 5 drops of essential to the water and stir. Soak a washcloth in the water, wring, then apply to the affected area. These compresses can be used for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
When choosing essential oils, it is important to choose a reputable brand that uses organically-harvested plant materials and the most potent parts of the plants.
And always test mixtures, baths or compresses on a small area of skin to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction to a particular oil. Everyone’s body works differently, and since essential oils are natural substances, they can have different effects on different people.
If you are pregnant or nursing, it's best not to use essential oils. If you taking medication, consult your doctor before using.
Remember, to help prevent swollen, tired, aching feet, consider adding Vivian Lou Weight-Shifting insoles to any shoe with a 2 inch heel or higher. These amazing insoles adjust the pitch and position of the foot in heels so you can wear them with enjoyment (up to 4x longer without pain or inflammation)!
Here’s to happy, healthy feet in high heels!