Inexpensive 'naturally healthy' holiday gifts

December 6, 7:04 AMOhio Natural Health ExaminerLori Osterloh

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Lemon oil is a fresh, clean, uplifting scent 

This time of year, I am always searching for thoughtful gifts for those around me. This year, in particular, money is a definite concern. Frugality is of high importance, but I don't want to skip any one that could benefit from some natural TLC.
 

My solution is wonderful smelling self-care items containing all natural essential oils! Essential oils can be found at many health food stores and some pharmacies. To find an oil of good quality, just smell it. I was taught that if the odor irritates the nostrils, or produces an itching sensation right behind the eyes, then chances are it contains some type solvent or chemical that is not desired.

To find pleasing scents, just sniff the testers that many of these retail establishments have available. Aromatherapy is not brain surgery. While there are certain oils that seem to be better for certain complaints, if it smells good it is probably a scent that will benefit you.

It is suggested that no one use essential oils directly on the skin without some sort of carrier. This would be an oil, water, salts, etc that the oils are diluted in. Some oils can cause what doctors call "contact dermatitis." Lavender is usually a pretty safe bet as it is considered to be the most gentle of all the essential oils. If you are concerned about a reaction, a skin patch test can be done. Simply apply one drop of the oil to the skin and cover with a band-aid and watch what happens.

Here is a simple recipe for a soothing, yet refreshing bath salts, that is more than suitable for gift giving. Citrus oils, like lemon, are plentiful this time of year and are relatively inexpensive, as is lavender.

 5 drops lavender essential oil

5 drops lemon essential oil

Add these to approx. 1/2 cup of Epsom salts and 1/2 cup baking soda. Seal in a container with a tight fitting lid and shake well to mix. Just fill a pretty jar and you have a wonderful gift worthy of gift giving.