My Mom visited the hair salon recently, and she was told that she needed a deep oil treatment for her hair. So naturally she asked me to concoct one for her. It turned out so nicely, I thought that I'd share it with you all.
I used;
1 part jojoba oil
1/2 part meadowfoam seed oil
1/4 part wheat germ oil
1/2 part coconut oil
1 part avocado oil
I also used
6 drops rosemary essential oil
10 drops lavender essential oil in about 3 1/4 ounces of oils.
I had her heat all the oils together and, after the coconut oil was melted, rub this mixture into her newly washed and towel dried hair. She then put a shower cap on it and sat for ten to fifteen minutes. Then she washed her hair again. It really did the trick, conditioning her hair and rejuvenating it! While I think she needs another one next week, her hair was very damaged. If yours is not, just once a month I would think will do the job for keeping your hair conditioned throughout the long, hot summer!
Showing posts with label hot oil treatment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hot oil treatment. Show all posts
The Home Spa Treatment
The long, hot summer is behind us, leaving the long, hard, cold, winter before us. To help make it through, try some of these spa-like recipes in the privacy of your home!!You could even invite friends over and make an entire home spa day!
SALON-TYPE HOT WAX HERBAL TREATMENT
1 cup beeswax (either grated or block)
10 Tbs. sweet almond oil
8 Tbs. virgin olive oil
5 drops lavender essential oil
3 drops chamomile essential oil
*For stiff, sore hands/feet, instead of the lavender and chamomile, add
5 drops wintergreen, 3 drops peppermint, and 2 drops of camphor essential oils
In order to keep a steady, even heat, this formula is best done in a crockpot. The wax should be cool enough to use when it forms a crust over the top. Use extreme caution when dipping your hand or foot into the wax. Hot wax will burn! If the crock pot is not large enough for you to fit your hand/foot into, pour the wax treatment into a pan that is deep enough and wide enough for them to fit and use it immediately.
Melt the beeswax in the crock pot on low heat (using medium or high heat can cause a fire!) Once melted, add all of the oils and stir well. Make sure that the wax is not too hot to use by inserting a candy thermometer to test it. 91 to 98 degrees works well. Dip one had/foot in the mixture at a time, then sit back and relax as it dries. Allow the wax to set up, 7-10 minutes is the average time, then peel of the wax. Save the peeled off wax, as you can remelt and reuse it several times. The formula should remain good for about a year, but if it gets too dry or looses its aroma, simply add a little more oil. Store the wax in a container out of direct sunlight.
SPA-TYPE AROMATHERAPY FACIAL STEAM
Steaming is a simple concept that produces a great effect on your skin and your mood. Simply put some water in a pan, bring it to a boil, drop in the proper essential oils and turn down the heat to low. Drape a towel over your head to direct the steam to your face and bend over the steam. There will be enough steam for your face for about 2-3 minutes. Once done, pat the skin dry and moisturize.
Steaming allows you to get the benefit of the essential oils on your skin and in your lungs, while the heat opens the pores and sweats the impurities out of them. Wash your face and neck prior to steaming so that you will work the true grime from the skin, not surface dirt.
For relaxation, peace of mind, cleansing and toning of skin,
use 2 drops each of the following essential oils. Bergamot, Clary Sage, Geranium and Lavender.
Don't forget about you hair when doing your in home spa day! Here is a spa-quality hot oil treatment that is wonderful for dry hair (do NOT use if you have oily hair), and a Herbal Conditioning Pack that is good for all hair types (when used once a month).
SPA-TYPE HERBAL HOT OIL TREATMENT
1/4 cup virgin olive oil
1 vitamin E capsule 400U or more (pierce and squeeze the contents into the mix)
1 Tbs. coconut oil
1 Tbs jojoba oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
1 drop rosemary essential oil (may substitute cedarwood EO if prefered)
Mix all together, then rub into clean, towel-dried hair. Leave on for 5 to 10 minutes, then wash out.
Stored in a bottle, this mixture will stay good for 2-3 months.
The following Herbal Conditioning Pack is full of deep conditioners and is great for all hair types when used once a month . It is alike a mud pack without the mud!
SALON-TYPE HERBAL PROTEIN CONDITIONING PACK
1 tbs. coconut oil
1/8 cup sweet almond oil
1/8 cup aloe vera gel
3 Tbs. gelatin mix (mix 1Tbs. unflavored gelatin in 2 1/2 Tbs. of cold water. Stir. Put in microwave to heat water to boiling, then stir again)
2 drops geranium essential oil
3 drops rosemary essential oil (may substitute bay EO if desired)
Mix all together and stir well. After shampooing, put mixture on towel-dried hair. Leave in for 5-10 minutes, then wash out. This mixture does not have a shelf life, so use it as soon as it is made.
REACH OUT AND TOUCH SOMEONE OR TOUCH YOURSELF
The art of massage therapy can be painted by any, not just the master artists! With a few simple tips you can treat your self, your partner, or be treated by your partner, to a fantastic and therapeutic massage.
**MASSAGE TIPS**
- If you do not have a massage table don't worry! Just cover your firm mattress with a towl or bath sheet.
- Put on some relaxing music, light the aromatherapy candles, dim the lights
- Make sure that the room is warm and the phone is unplugged. If you have children, make sure that they are cared for and that they won't disturb you. In other words, lock your door! lol
- Use natural oils or cremes, as they are nourishing to your skin and create an easy glide on the skin to help with the actual massage.
- Cold pressed oils maintain their natural vitamin content. These nutritive values will lubricate your skin and also will be absorb into the skin when you are finished with the massage, moisturizing it.
- Aromatherapy assists by providing therapeutic benefits, especially when combined with essential oils that are noted for evoking relaxation responses. The fragrance you use should bring to mind pleasant memories. This, then stimulates positive and healing emory patterns.
- The main reason for a massage is to activate the nerve endings in the body and stimulate the bloods circulation through the stroking of the skin, albeit gently or a bit more roughly.
- When you use the right essential oils in massage therapy, you can relieve anxiety and stress, increase lymph production in the system, improve blood flow, detoxify the system, ease pain and soothe sore muscles.
- You can custom blend essential oils to meet your needs, or just ask your herbalist to make you a blend.
- The power of caring human touch is a healing catalyst, both to help release tension and lactic acid build up in mucles. Touch is a comforting, caring signal to the mind and the body.
- A massage that is too painful will not yield effective results. There are many different types of massage techniques. Kneading, deep friction, rocking, compression, skin rolling, fingertip brushing, and percussion to name a few. Whichever you use will depend upon what feels best to you and what works best on you. Your preferences may change with your moods and that is okay too!
- Do not get a massage immediately after exercising. The body continues the process of eliminating toxins through perspiration for a time after you exercise and this will interfere with the absorption of the oil by the skin.
- Remain warm and relaxed after your massage for at least 20 minutes.
- Since warmth is so important in keeping muscles relaxed, you may need to add a space heater to the room when getting a massage. At the very least, keep a few extra blankets nearby for after the massage.
- Pour the massage oil into the palm of your hands first, then onto the skin to warm the oil.
- Replenish body fluids and help to cleanse the body and remove toxins from it after the massage by by drinking 8 ounces of water or herbal tea.
**RECIPES**
**LAVENDER SAGE MASSAGE OIL**
Grapeseed oil is a great oil to use for a massage blend because it is high in polyunsaturates. It is very light and very easily absorbed by the skin.
Mix 1/2 cup grapeseed oil with 4 drops of lavender essential oil and 4 drops of clary sage essential oil. Blend them well, then massage into the skin. Try using the pit of the avocado that you used in other recipes as a massage tool. It is a great, natural massager! Remember to rest for 20 minutes after your massage.
**VETIVER MASSAGE OIL**
Jojoba oil is actually more like a wax than an oil. It is very rich in natural vitamin E and is very similar to natural human oil secretions, sebum. It is very easily absorbed by the skin and is suitable for all skin types, making it one of the most popular carrier oils. Jojoba oil blends well with most essential oils, and has the added benefit of having a longer shelf life than most carrier oils (2-3 years). Vetiver essential oil has a rich, woodsy scent and is known for calming and grounding properties. This recipe is good to use for full body aromatherapy massages or for local applications to sooth tired and sore muscles.
Mix 1/2 cup of jojoba oil with 40 drops of vetiver essential oil. Mix the oils well and stor in an amber glass bottle.
**MOISTURIZING MASSAGE OIL**
You can add whatever essentyial oil blend to this recipe that you need. Here, the oil blend iteslf is the main focus. This recipe is for normal to very dry skin and will leave you with mositurized, amazing feeling skin!
1/2 cup sweet almond oil
1/4 cup coconut oil
4 Tbs. avocado oil
3-5 drops of essential oil(s)
Store for 3-6 months in an aber bottle. Make sure to keep out of direct light and away from extreme heat.
**THE ART OF SELF MASSAGE**
Begin by taking some time to quiet yourself and prepare mentally. Once practiced this may only take three to five minutes of quiet time in a softly lit room, but in the beginning you may need longer.
Start by focusing on the center of your diaphragm and quieting yourself by concentrating on your breathing. Deep breathing will help you to relax and focus yourself, drwing your attention to the task at hand. Take a few deep, slow, cleansing breaths. Relax and focus on your breathing. Clear your mind of any other thoughts. Breath in through your nose and out through your mouth, slowly and steadily. Do not let yourself think of anything besides your breathing. Push all other thoughts away. Take as long as you need. Once you are relaxed, it is time to begin your massage.
Begin at your feet. Pour some massage oil in the palm of your hands, then take both of hands and massage the bottom of your feet by applying pressure in a circular motion from the center of the foot outward. Then massage upward on each foot, from the ankle to the toes, using the thumbs to press firmly. Massage each toe, then massage the tops of the feet, moving up your legs to the calves, then the upper legs.
Continue to apply oil as you go, and as needed. Use a kneading technique on sore muscles. After the upper leg move on to the shoulders and your neck. Start on one side, using your fingertips. Work down yoru arms and then massage your hands and fingers. Be sure to do each finger, just as you did the toes.
Once you have finished, stay warm and relax for an additional 20 minutes. Remember to drink your replenishing fluids noted in the tip section above.
WRAP YOUR MIND AND BODY AROUND THIS
After you have scrubbed your body the next step in your at home spa treatment is the body wrap. It is important to treat yourself, to maximize your relaxation, maximize the revitalizing and rejuvenating aspects of this therapy. So go all out for yourself. If your bath area is large, you may want to take a lounge chair and space heater into it. Or you can utilize the tub by simply adding a bath or real pillow, and the heater of course. Some wraps are best done in the bath to keep clean up at a minimum, but you can always go all out by transforming your bedroom into a spa for a few hours. Draw the curtains, dim the lights, light some aromatic candles, preferably some lavender essential oil ones, and maybe some chamomile too. Then bring in a space heater, some large bath towels and all the items you will need for your treatment. Don't forget to uplug the phone either! Prepare your mind so that you can get the most out of this time, you deserve it!
TIPS
- Make sure that if you are not doing this right after you scrubbed, you remove all dirt, perfumes and lotions before beginning a wrap. A quick shower should accomplish this goal with ease.
- It is important to warm all your tools, towels, sheets, and ingredients prior to use. This will help to retain the heat during your treatment, which will help the treatment to work more efficiently.
- The sheet or cotton strips should be immersed in water that is approx. 180 degrees F or 82 degrees C.
- Wear rubber gloves to protect your skin, and avoid burns when wringing out the sheet or cotton strips.
- Select your relaxation spot and gather all of your needed items before you begin. Having everything at hand will speed the preparation phase and allow for a more streamlined and effective treatment.
- Using a space heater near the relaxation area will prolong the heat of the wrap.
- Sipping some hot herbal tea before you wrap will raise your body temperature and intensify the effects of the wrap.
- You can use a cheap shower curtain liner (they have them at the dollar stores) instead of buying a plastic sheet.
- Watch for bedding sales and buy yourself an all cotton (you can also use linen, but I prefer cotton) sheet to cut and use for treatment strips. You will need them to be about 3" wide. You can wash and reuse them many times, so one will be sufficient for quite a while.
- When you make pastes, make them the consistency of mayonnaise for optimal benefits.
- You are not finished with your treatment when the wrap is done. You need to cuddle up in a warm bath robe for another 20 minutes, and make sure that you do not attempt to do any physical activity immediately after the treatment.
*WRAP RECIPES*
*REMINERALIZING WRAP*
3 ounces fresh seaweed (Kelp) OR
8 ounces dried or powdered seaweed with enough water to make a paste
plastic sheet or Mylar sheet
blanket
space heater
Place your blanket at the bottom of your bath tub and then place the plastic or mylar sheet on top of it.
Set the heater close by and turn it on. Undress. While sitting on the sheet, cover yourself with the fresh seaweed or the seaweed paste, whichever you are using, then wrap yourself in the plastic sheet and blanket. Relax like this for twenty minutes. After your twenty minutes are up, unwrap yourself slowly. Toss the blanket and sheet out of the tub and fill the tub with warm water. Relax in the tub water for ten minutes, then pat dry and moisturize.
Kelp is the most popular type of seaweed used in cosmetics and for healing purposes. Seaweed wraps are an easy and fast way to replenish the body with nutrients and minerals that are lost on a daily basis such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, iodine, copper, amino acids, vitamins, protein and phosphorus. Since seawater has the same basic molecular formation as the human blood cell, nutrients from the seawater are able to easily filter through the skin pores and be absorbed directly into the blood stream.
*REJUVENATING WRAP*
1 cup fresh, chopped lemongrass OR 1/2 cup dried
3" piece of ginger root, grated or minced
large pot of boiling water - spaghetti or lobster pot size
1 cotton sheet cut into 3" wide strips
1 plastic sheet
1 or 2 blankets
Put the lemongrass and the ginger into a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Cover and let simmer for five minutes, then remove from heat and allow to sit for an additional five minutes. Take a strainer and scoop out as much of the plant material as you can, and throw it away. Place the strips in the infused hot water and allow to steep for five minutes. When the time is up, draw out the strips one at a time and wring out the excess water. Start at your legs and snugly wrap the strips around your body. After the legs, do the arms, then finish with your torso. Tuck strip ends into the strip in another spot to help make the fit snug and secure. After you have applied all the strips, wrap yourself in the plastic sheet then cover yourself with the blanket or blankets. Relax in bed or on a lounge chair for fifteen minutes, then remove the strips and shower in warm water, pat dry and moisturize.
This wrap makes a great morning treatment, as the lemongrass has tonic, antiseptic and invigorating properties, while the ginger is cleansing and stimulating. Ginger has been found to rid the body of respiratory ailments, colds and flu type symptoms, while lemongrass is a known mood elevator and rejuvenator.
*RELAXATION WRAP*
1 cup fresh chamomile, chopped OR 1/2 cup dried
1 cup valerian root, grated OR 1/2 cup dried
1 cup lavender, crushed OR 1/2 cup dried
1 cotton sheet cut into 3" wide strips
1 large pot of boiling water (spaghetti or lobster pot)
1 plastic sheet
1 or 2 blankets
Place all the herbs in the pot, fill with water and bring to a boil. Then cover and simmer for five minutes, remove from the heat and allow to stand for another five minutes, then remove as much of the solids as you can with a strainer, tossing them out and retaining the infused water. Put the sheet strips in the water and allow to steep for five minuets. Remove the strips one at a time and wring out the excess water before you begin to wrap them around your legs. Continue removing a strip at a time, and wrapping until you are completely wrapped. Do legs, then arms, then torso. Tuck the strip ends into the strip at another point so that it holds snugly. Once wrapped, lay on the plastic sheet and roll yourself up in it, then relax on your bed or in a lounge chair, and cover yourself with a blanket or two for ten minutes. When your time is up, remove the strips and simply hit the bed.
Valerian has been used since Roman times as a mild sedative, sleep aide and reliever. Chamomile has calming and anti-spasmodic effects, while lavender has relaxing, soothing, and restorative properties. The use of all three of these combined makes this the perfect wrap to prepare you for bed after a long, stressful day. Do not shower for several hours after this wrap so that you can preserve and prolong the effects of the heat treatment.
HAIR RAISING FACTS ABOUT HAIRCARE
So, now that we have taken care of our faces, hands and feet, it's time to address our hair care. Just as there are several steps to proper face care (see http://uniquegardenessences.blogspot.com/2008/06/faceing-facts-about-face-care.html ), there are also four steps to healthy, gorgeous hair. The first step is to condition or moisturize normal hair, or to treat damaged hair. This is the pre-shampoo stage.
Then you shampoo to clean the hair, removing oil, residue and dirt. The third step is the rinse, which removes the excess shampoo and replenishes the hair with nutrients. Then the final step is to condition, which seals the moisture and nutrients into the hair and protects it from the elements.
PRE-SHAMPOO SAGE CONDITIONER - (especially good for THINNING, GRAYING hair and SPLIT ENDS)
Take 8 sage leaves and crush them. Place them in the bottom of small glass bowl. Pour 1/2 cup of boiling water over the sage and leave it sit to steep, undisturbed for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, strain and keep the liquid while throwing out the solids. Add 1 TBS. of wheat germ oil and 1 TBS grapeseed oil to the sage infusion. Mix well and pour into a dark colored bottle. Dampen hair and massage a small amount of this mixture into your hair and scalp. If you have split ends, make sure to rub some directly onto the hair ends, then wrap hair in a towel or shower cap and leave on for 45-60 minutes. When time is up, simply shampoo out.
DEEP CONDITIONING SCALP PACK
This is a mud pack for your hair, without the mud! It is a deep conditioner that is great for all types of hair, if used once a month.
1 TBS coconut oil
1/8 cup sweet almond oil
1/8 cup aloe vera gel
3 TBS gelatin mix*
2 drops geranium essential oil
3 drops bay or rosemary essential oil
*gelatin mix = take 1 TBS of unflavored gelatin in 2 1/2 TBS of cold water. Stir. Put in microwave to heat water until boiling, then stir again.
Mix all the ingredients together and stir. Put it on towl-dried hair after shampooing. Leave it soak in for 5 to 10 minutes, then wash out. There is no shelf life to this, so mix it just before you want to use it.
CONDITIONING SCALP CLAY TREATMENT
This is a deep conditioning and cleansing treatment all in one. The clay will remove residue and dirt, while nourishing the scalp. The coconut oil protects and preserves the hair, as it does the skin, by providing a sealing layer that holds in moisture.
In a small saucepan, over low heat, melt 1/2 cup jojoba oil with 3 TBS of coconut oil. Remove from heat and set aside. In a small bowl, put 4 TBS powdered white clay [make sure you use white clay, as red or green will be too harsh to use on the hair]. Slowly stir in up to 1 cup of distilled water, until a paste is made. Blend the melted oils with paste. Mix thoroughly. Apply a palm full of the clay mixture to damp hair (hair should be clean). Massage into your scalp, then cover the hair with plastic wrap, a turban or a shower cap. Leave on for 15 minutes then shampoo out.
CONDITIONING SCALP TREATMENT for NORMAL HAIR
This is another once a week treatment. This one is especially good for hair that has been over exposed to wind and sun. The olive oil will improve the hair elasticity, making it stronger and less likely to break. This treatment will leave your hair feeling incredibly soft and smooth. Lavender possesses many healing and nourishing properties, and is known to reduce tension, as well as alleviate headaches. So massaging this into the scalp will have benefits, beyond what it does for your hair!
In a small saucepan, over low heat, heat 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil until it is warm. Once warm, remove from heat and add 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Mix well, then massage into the scalp of damp hair. Cover the hair with a turban, plastic wrap, or shower cap. Leave on for 20 before shampooing out.
EASY SHAMPOO RECIPE
To accommodate every hair type in your family, you can take liquid Castile liquid soap (this is very mild, olive oil soap which is low sudsing) and then add various herbal and/or botanical essential oils to make it appropriate for the different types of hair. Actually, if you cannot find Castile, or if you prefer more a more sudsy shampoo, you can use an uncolored, unscented baby shampoo as the base for the following shampoo recipes. For each one you will use an amount about the size of a quarter. Simply place into the palm of your hand, combine with water to lather, then apply to the hair. Work through your hair, lathering, then rinse and repeat if needed.
The following recipes, using the Castile soap as a base, should last from three to six months. Store them in a plastic bottle after they are mixed.
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NORMAL HAIR HERBAL SHAMPOO
This recipe gently cleanses without stripping the hair. The herbs in this recipe will clarify the scalp and hair, and help to add shine. This recipe contains glycerin and white vinegar which will help it to rinse clean, leaving no residue in your hair.
Mix together
1 cup of liquid Castile soap (or your plain baby shampoo)
1 tsp glycerin
3 drops rosemary essential oil
3 drops sage essential oil
1 tsp white vinegar
DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR SHAMPOO
This recipe has several enriching herb and oils that are soothing as well as conditioning. This formula will put that silky feeling back into your hair.
Mix together
1 cup of liquid Castile soap (or the baby shampoo previously described)
1 tsp glycerin
1 tsp aloe vera
1tsp jojoba oil (may substitute apricot kernal oil)
3 drops chamomile essential oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
1 vitamin E capsule (take a 400 unit or more capsule and pirce it with a pin, then place the liquid in the mix)
OILY HAIR SHAMPOO
The trick for treating oily hair is to not strip the scalp so much that it signals for more oil to be produced. You want to brace the scalp and slow the oil production without being overly harsh or drying. This recipe should be just what you need!
Mix together
1 cup liquid Castile (or the baby shampoo previously described)
1 tsp glycerin
1/2 tsp tea tree extract or oil
1/2 tsp nettle extract or oil
1/2 tsp witch hazel
3 drops each of your choice of TWO of the following essential oils; orange, frankincese, grapefruit, lemon, juniper, cypress, borage or lavender
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SHAMPOO for LIGHT COLORED HAIR
This shampoo is mild enough for daily use, and is especially formulated for light hair.
Take 1/2 cup fresh (or 1/4 cup dried) chamomile* and crush them in a small glass bowl. Pour 1 1/2 cups of boiling water over the chamomile, cover and allow to steep for 20 minutes. Once time is up, strain and throw away the solids, while reserving the liquid. Stir 3 TBS liquid Castile soap and 1 tsp jojoba oil (may substitute sesame oil if desired) into the chamomile infusion. Stir well, then add 3 drops of patchouli or ylang-ylang essential oil and mix again. Place into a plastic bottle with a pour-top spout.
*you may substitute calendula or lemon peel for the chamomile if desired.
SHAMPOO for DARK COLORED HAIR
This shampoo is mild enough for daily use and is especially formulated for dark colored hair.
Take 1/2 cup fresh (or 1/4 cup dried) rosemary* and crush them in a small glass bowl. Pour 1 1/2 cups of boiling water over the rosemary, cover and allow to steep for 20 minutes. Once time is up, strain and throw away the solids, while reserving the liquid. Stir 3 TBS liquid Castile soap and 1 tsp jojoba oil (may substitute sesame oil if desired) into the chamomile infusion. Stir well, then add 3 drops of patchouli or ylang-ylang essential oil and mix again. Place into a plastic bottle with a pour-top spout.
*you may substitute sage or cloves for the rosemary if you so choose.
DRY SCALP SHAMPOO
Tea Tree oil has many healing and soothing properties. It is used to treat everything from viruses to rashes, even burns. On the scalp it works well to sooth dry, flaky skin. Simply mix 2 TBS of the SHAMPOO for LIGHT or DARK hair with 3 drops of tea tree essential oil, instead of the essential oil additive at the end of the recipe(s).
VITALIZING RINSE
After shampoo rinses remove all the soap and residue from the hair, while leaving it extra shiny.
Chop two sprigs of fresh rosemary and place it a jar. Fill the jar with 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and cover. Store jar in cool, dark place for 1 week, shaking jar vigorously once each day. After one week, strain, retain the liquid and throw out the plant material. Return the liquid to the jar. When you are ready to use, dilute 1/3 cup of the liquid in 3 cups of warm water. Rub into freshly washed, damp hair and scalp. Rinse thoroughly and dry as usual. *Avoid getting this mixture into your eyes!*
AFTER SHAMPOO RINSE for DANDRUFF
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
4 cups water
1 cup thyme infusion [infusion is made by steeping 1 tsp of fresh thyme in hot water for 5 min., covered]
Mix all together and use about half, depending upon the length of your hair, as a rinse after shampooing. Store in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place. This will remain good for about one week only.
In this recipe the vinegar works as a mild astringent, and the thyme as a toner. Dandruff is a common scalp condition that occurs when the dead skin is shed. It is often referred to as seborrhea, which is an inflammatory skin disease caused by a problem with the sebaceous (oil secreting) glands. It is often recommended that you increase your B complex vitamins, along with trying a topical treatment such as this rinse.
SWEET HAIR WRAP
To add shine and moisture to your hair, Take 1/2 cup of honey, molasses or maple syrup and massage it into your damp hair and scalp. Then cover with a turban, shower cap or plastic wrap. Leave in for 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water and shampoo out.
*HAIR FACTS AND CARE TIPS*
As with every other section of skin health that I have written about, maintaining adequate hydration is important to the health of the hair. Moreover, your general health and nutrition will impact hair health. If you are healthy inside, it will reflect on the outside. So eat well, drink plenty of fluids, and get plenty of exercise and sleep. Avoid alcohol, tobacco and over exposure to the elements.
Hair grows about 1/2 inch per month, but it tends to grow faster in warm weather than in cold.
Avoid shampoos with detergent bases, as they tend to dry out and damage the hair.
Natural ingredients are generally safe and gentle for all types of hair, including color treated hair.
Hair should be protected from the sun just like the skin. Hats are sunscreen for hair!
The scalp is more receptive to treatment when the pores are dilated and the skin is relaxed.
For an all over spa treatment, apply a hair treatment before you get into an essential oil infused bath. That way you can be soaking as your hair is being treated.
Do not overuse gels, mousses, or hairsprays. They can build up, leave heavy residue and irritate the scalp.
Use a wide-toothed comb instead of a hairbrush on your hair, as the brushes bristles tend to damage the hair shafts, causing breakage.
When you rinse your hair, use cool water for the final rinse. This will tighten your scalp pores and leave your hair shinier.
DEEP CONDITIONING SCALP PACK
This is a mud pack for your hair, without the mud! It is a deep conditioner that is great for all types of hair, if used once a month.
1 TBS coconut oil
1/8 cup sweet almond oil
1/8 cup aloe vera gel
3 TBS gelatin mix*
2 drops geranium essential oil
3 drops bay or rosemary essential oil
*gelatin mix = take 1 TBS of unflavored gelatin in 2 1/2 TBS of cold water. Stir. Put in microwave to heat water until boiling, then stir again.
Mix all the ingredients together and stir. Put it on towl-dried hair after shampooing. Leave it soak in for 5 to 10 minutes, then wash out. There is no shelf life to this, so mix it just before you want to use it.
CONDITIONING SCALP CLAY TREATMENT
This is a deep conditioning and cleansing treatment all in one. The clay will remove residue and dirt, while nourishing the scalp. The coconut oil protects and preserves the hair, as it does the skin, by providing a sealing layer that holds in moisture.
In a small saucepan, over low heat, melt 1/2 cup jojoba oil with 3 TBS of coconut oil. Remove from heat and set aside. In a small bowl, put 4 TBS powdered white clay [make sure you use white clay, as red or green will be too harsh to use on the hair]. Slowly stir in up to 1 cup of distilled water, until a paste is made. Blend the melted oils with paste. Mix thoroughly. Apply a palm full of the clay mixture to damp hair (hair should be clean). Massage into your scalp, then cover the hair with plastic wrap, a turban or a shower cap. Leave on for 15 minutes then shampoo out.
CONDITIONING SCALP TREATMENT for NORMAL HAIR
This is another once a week treatment. This one is especially good for hair that has been over exposed to wind and sun. The olive oil will improve the hair elasticity, making it stronger and less likely to break. This treatment will leave your hair feeling incredibly soft and smooth. Lavender possesses many healing and nourishing properties, and is known to reduce tension, as well as alleviate headaches. So massaging this into the scalp will have benefits, beyond what it does for your hair!
In a small saucepan, over low heat, heat 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil until it is warm. Once warm, remove from heat and add 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Mix well, then massage into the scalp of damp hair. Cover the hair with a turban, plastic wrap, or shower cap. Leave on for 20 before shampooing out.
EASY SHAMPOO RECIPE
To accommodate every hair type in your family, you can take liquid Castile liquid soap (this is very mild, olive oil soap which is low sudsing) and then add various herbal and/or botanical essential oils to make it appropriate for the different types of hair. Actually, if you cannot find Castile, or if you prefer more a more sudsy shampoo, you can use an uncolored, unscented baby shampoo as the base for the following shampoo recipes. For each one you will use an amount about the size of a quarter. Simply place into the palm of your hand, combine with water to lather, then apply to the hair. Work through your hair, lathering, then rinse and repeat if needed.
The following recipes, using the Castile soap as a base, should last from three to six months. Store them in a plastic bottle after they are mixed.
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NORMAL HAIR HERBAL SHAMPOO
This recipe gently cleanses without stripping the hair. The herbs in this recipe will clarify the scalp and hair, and help to add shine. This recipe contains glycerin and white vinegar which will help it to rinse clean, leaving no residue in your hair.
Mix together
1 cup of liquid Castile soap (or your plain baby shampoo)
1 tsp glycerin
3 drops rosemary essential oil
3 drops sage essential oil
1 tsp white vinegar
DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR SHAMPOO
This recipe has several enriching herb and oils that are soothing as well as conditioning. This formula will put that silky feeling back into your hair.
Mix together
1 cup of liquid Castile soap (or the baby shampoo previously described)
1 tsp glycerin
1 tsp aloe vera
1tsp jojoba oil (may substitute apricot kernal oil)
3 drops chamomile essential oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
1 vitamin E capsule (take a 400 unit or more capsule and pirce it with a pin, then place the liquid in the mix)
OILY HAIR SHAMPOO
The trick for treating oily hair is to not strip the scalp so much that it signals for more oil to be produced. You want to brace the scalp and slow the oil production without being overly harsh or drying. This recipe should be just what you need!
Mix together
1 cup liquid Castile (or the baby shampoo previously described)
1 tsp glycerin
1/2 tsp tea tree extract or oil
1/2 tsp nettle extract or oil
1/2 tsp witch hazel
3 drops each of your choice of TWO of the following essential oils; orange, frankincese, grapefruit, lemon, juniper, cypress, borage or lavender
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SHAMPOO for LIGHT COLORED HAIR
This shampoo is mild enough for daily use, and is especially formulated for light hair.
Take 1/2 cup fresh (or 1/4 cup dried) chamomile* and crush them in a small glass bowl. Pour 1 1/2 cups of boiling water over the chamomile, cover and allow to steep for 20 minutes. Once time is up, strain and throw away the solids, while reserving the liquid. Stir 3 TBS liquid Castile soap and 1 tsp jojoba oil (may substitute sesame oil if desired) into the chamomile infusion. Stir well, then add 3 drops of patchouli or ylang-ylang essential oil and mix again. Place into a plastic bottle with a pour-top spout.
*you may substitute calendula or lemon peel for the chamomile if desired.
SHAMPOO for DARK COLORED HAIR
This shampoo is mild enough for daily use and is especially formulated for dark colored hair.
Take 1/2 cup fresh (or 1/4 cup dried) rosemary* and crush them in a small glass bowl. Pour 1 1/2 cups of boiling water over the rosemary, cover and allow to steep for 20 minutes. Once time is up, strain and throw away the solids, while reserving the liquid. Stir 3 TBS liquid Castile soap and 1 tsp jojoba oil (may substitute sesame oil if desired) into the chamomile infusion. Stir well, then add 3 drops of patchouli or ylang-ylang essential oil and mix again. Place into a plastic bottle with a pour-top spout.
*you may substitute sage or cloves for the rosemary if you so choose.
DRY SCALP SHAMPOO
Tea Tree oil has many healing and soothing properties. It is used to treat everything from viruses to rashes, even burns. On the scalp it works well to sooth dry, flaky skin. Simply mix 2 TBS of the SHAMPOO for LIGHT or DARK hair with 3 drops of tea tree essential oil, instead of the essential oil additive at the end of the recipe(s).
VITALIZING RINSE
After shampoo rinses remove all the soap and residue from the hair, while leaving it extra shiny.
Chop two sprigs of fresh rosemary and place it a jar. Fill the jar with 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and cover. Store jar in cool, dark place for 1 week, shaking jar vigorously once each day. After one week, strain, retain the liquid and throw out the plant material. Return the liquid to the jar. When you are ready to use, dilute 1/3 cup of the liquid in 3 cups of warm water. Rub into freshly washed, damp hair and scalp. Rinse thoroughly and dry as usual. *Avoid getting this mixture into your eyes!*
AFTER SHAMPOO RINSE for DANDRUFF
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
4 cups water
1 cup thyme infusion [infusion is made by steeping 1 tsp of fresh thyme in hot water for 5 min., covered]
Mix all together and use about half, depending upon the length of your hair, as a rinse after shampooing. Store in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place. This will remain good for about one week only.
In this recipe the vinegar works as a mild astringent, and the thyme as a toner. Dandruff is a common scalp condition that occurs when the dead skin is shed. It is often referred to as seborrhea, which is an inflammatory skin disease caused by a problem with the sebaceous (oil secreting) glands. It is often recommended that you increase your B complex vitamins, along with trying a topical treatment such as this rinse.
SWEET HAIR WRAP
To add shine and moisture to your hair, Take 1/2 cup of honey, molasses or maple syrup and massage it into your damp hair and scalp. Then cover with a turban, shower cap or plastic wrap. Leave in for 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water and shampoo out.
*HAIR FACTS AND CARE TIPS*
As with every other section of skin health that I have written about, maintaining adequate hydration is important to the health of the hair. Moreover, your general health and nutrition will impact hair health. If you are healthy inside, it will reflect on the outside. So eat well, drink plenty of fluids, and get plenty of exercise and sleep. Avoid alcohol, tobacco and over exposure to the elements.
Hair grows about 1/2 inch per month, but it tends to grow faster in warm weather than in cold.
Avoid shampoos with detergent bases, as they tend to dry out and damage the hair.
Natural ingredients are generally safe and gentle for all types of hair, including color treated hair.
Hair should be protected from the sun just like the skin. Hats are sunscreen for hair!
The scalp is more receptive to treatment when the pores are dilated and the skin is relaxed.
For an all over spa treatment, apply a hair treatment before you get into an essential oil infused bath. That way you can be soaking as your hair is being treated.
Do not overuse gels, mousses, or hairsprays. They can build up, leave heavy residue and irritate the scalp.
Use a wide-toothed comb instead of a hairbrush on your hair, as the brushes bristles tend to damage the hair shafts, causing breakage.
When you rinse your hair, use cool water for the final rinse. This will tighten your scalp pores and leave your hair shinier.
Nailing Nail Care
When caring for your hands, don't forget the nails! Here are some tips that you will need to nail down to maintain good nail care!
*First and foremost, your nails are NOT tools, so don't use them to pry open lids or other such things.
*Don't use nail polish and polish remover all the time. Some polish has acetone that dries the nails, and most remover has it as well. This ingredient causes the nail bed to dry out and split.
*Don't use a sharp object to "clean" your nails. This too is harsh and can split the nail bed. Don't bite your nails or cut your cuticles.
*Don't over "buff". Applying too much pressure when buffing makes the nail bed thin and prone to breakage.
*Of course, you'll want to keep your nails out of harsh detergents , drying soaps, and too much water, just as you keep your hands away from these irritants.
*Basically, you need to treat your nails just as well as you treat your hands and other skin! Massage and moisturize your nails and cuticles as often as possible.
*Give yourself a manicure every week. Soak your cuticles in warm water to soften and gently push them back when needed.
*Trim dead (and only dead) excess skin with sharp manicure scissors as needed.
*As with all the body's skin, it is important to keep it nourished from the inside and the out. Maintain your hydration level, and eat and supplement adequately.
FOR DULLED, YELLOWED NAILS-
Simply scrub them gently with white vinegar. Or,
Mix 1 Tbs. hydrogen peroxide in 1 cup of warm water and soak your nails in this solution for 15 minutes. Once finished, rinse and pat dry. Whichever you choose, do this two times a week to obtain the desired effect.
CUTICLE TREATMENT-
In a small
bowl, mix together 2 Tbs each of almond oil, jojoba oil, olive oil and honey. Also add in the liquid from 4-5 vitamin E capsules. Set this aside while you soak your nails in warm water for ten minutes, then pat dry. Then massage the oil mixture into the nails of your hands, and don't forget the toenails! Really concentrate on the cuticles. Use this mixture after you shower or wash your hands too. You will have enough oil mixture for at least four treatments. This recipe locks in moisture, while it strengthens and conditions.
CUTICLE CREAM
Heat 5 Tbs. of cocoa butter until it is just melted, then stir in 1 tsp. of wheat germ oil, 3 Tbs. avocado oil, and 3 drops of rosemary essential oil. Stir this mixture for about five minutes, until the mixture is cooled, then massage into the cuticles (also great for calloused areas) of the hands and feet. This formula is made of extra rich conditioning oils and will be a great moisturizer. This mixture will remain good for 2-3 months, so feel free to make extra!
HOT OIL TREATMENT for NAILS
*First and foremost, your nails are NOT tools, so don't use them to pry open lids or other such things.
*Don't use nail polish and polish remover all the time. Some polish has acetone that dries the nails, and most remover has it as well. This ingredient causes the nail bed to dry out and split.
*Don't use a sharp object to "clean" your nails. This too is harsh and can split the nail bed. Don't bite your nails or cut your cuticles.
*Don't over "buff". Applying too much pressure when buffing makes the nail bed thin and prone to breakage.
*Of course, you'll want to keep your nails out of harsh detergents , drying soaps, and too much water, just as you keep your hands away from these irritants.
*Basically, you need to treat your nails just as well as you treat your hands and other skin! Massage and moisturize your nails and cuticles as often as possible.
*Give yourself a manicure every week. Soak your cuticles in warm water to soften and gently push them back when needed.
*Trim dead (and only dead) excess skin with sharp manicure scissors as needed.
*As with all the body's skin, it is important to keep it nourished from the inside and the out. Maintain your hydration level, and eat and supplement adequately.
*RECIPES*
FOR DULLED, YELLOWED NAILS-
Simply scrub them gently with white vinegar. Or,
Mix 1 Tbs. hydrogen peroxide in 1 cup of warm water and soak your nails in this solution for 15 minutes. Once finished, rinse and pat dry. Whichever you choose, do this two times a week to obtain the desired effect.
CUTICLE TREATMENT-
In a small
bowl, mix together 2 Tbs each of almond oil, jojoba oil, olive oil and honey. Also add in the liquid from 4-5 vitamin E capsules. Set this aside while you soak your nails in warm water for ten minutes, then pat dry. Then massage the oil mixture into the nails of your hands, and don't forget the toenails! Really concentrate on the cuticles. Use this mixture after you shower or wash your hands too. You will have enough oil mixture for at least four treatments. This recipe locks in moisture, while it strengthens and conditions.CUTICLE CREAM
Heat 5 Tbs. of cocoa butter until it is just melted, then stir in 1 tsp. of wheat germ oil, 3 Tbs. avocado oil, and 3 drops of rosemary essential oil. Stir this mixture for about five minutes, until the mixture is cooled, then massage into the cuticles (also great for calloused areas) of the hands and feet. This formula is made of extra rich conditioning oils and will be a great moisturizer. This mixture will remain good for 2-3 months, so feel free to make extra!
HOT OIL TREATMENT for NAILS
In a small saucepan, heat 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Allow the olive oil to cool down until it is just warm to touch, then add in the liquid from 2-3 capsules of vitamin E. Stir well, then massage the mixture into the nails, concentrating especially on the cuticles. Massage the excess oil into your hands for a moisturizing treat! This treatment nourishes, while strengthening and affording flexibility of the nails.
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