Compresses
Compresses are useful in treating local problems like boils, insect bites, headaches, menstrual cramps or sprains. You will need a natural fiber cloth to fit the size of the injury and a container for water. For an infected finger, just a cupful of water is needed. Choose a compress over local massage whenever hot or cold treatment seems to be appropriate.
Fill the container with water. Use hot water for muscular aches and pains, arthritis, infections or menstrual cramps. Use cold water for sprains, migraines or bruises. For a finger-sized compress, add 2 drops of oil to 1\4 cup of water.
To cover a larger area, use 8 drops of oil to 2 cups of water. Agitate well to disperse the oil, lower the cloth slowly into the basin, lightly squeeze out any excess water and lay it on the problem area. Leave on for at least an hour.
A cold compress can have a bag of crushed ice placed on top; a warm compress can be wrapped with warm fabric like wool.
Aromatic Bath
An aromatherapy bath is a treat that can be sensual, relaxing, purifying, invigorating or just fun. Since essential oils do not dissolve in water, it is best to add five to ten drops to a cup of milk, vinegar, oatmeal, honey or liquid soap. The essential oil evaporates quickly, so add it when the tub is full.
Foot Baths
A hot aromatic foot bath can ward off a cold, relieve stress and exhaustion or treat specific foot complaints. Add 5 drops to a large basin of water. Soak and relax for 10 minutes.
