As I see friends and family suffer from pain in their hands and wrists due to Rheumatoid Arthritis, or other conditions, the Aromatherapist inside me wants to help them find relief. This is why I created this formula. My heart goes out to those who suffer chronic pain. There are lots of fantastic muscle balms available, one of my favorites being Muscle Vitality, however, they are designed for best use on the body to alleviate sore, strained muscles and joints. Many contain ingredients that are very strong, such as Capsicum that you do not want to touch your face with or get into the eyes.
Soothing Hand Cream
This formula contains essential oils that are used by aromatherapists for their pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. The base is fabulous. Because it is meant to use on the hands, I picked ingredients that are moisturizing and feel really good as you massage onto the hands and wrist. This recipe is approximately a 2.5% dilution. In my experience as an aromatherapist, I believe it’s best to start with a lower dilution and then work your way up as necessary. If you need a stronger formula, I provided a recipe for a 5% dilution.
Directions
This recipe will make approximately 6 oz. Blend your essential oils in a vial first, then add to base.
Fill the bottom of a small pan with about 1 inch of water and turn on medium heat.
Place a small jar or beaker in the water. DO NOT get water inside the jar.
Gently heat the Shea butter, almond oil, and beeswax in a glass jar and slowly melt, stirring as needed.
When all ingredients are melted, stir well and turn off heat, but leave in the water to keep warm.
Add the essential oils blend. Pour in Jar and let set to harden.
Recipe – Approx. 2.5% Dilution
¼ cup Shea Butter
1/8 cup Sweet Almond Oil
1 tbsp beeswax
Frankincense – 25 drops
Turmeric – 20 drops
Helichrysum – 15 drops
Birch – 10 drops
Ginger– 10 drops
Orange – 5 drops
Recipe – Approx. 5% Dilution
¼ cup Shea Butter
1/8 cup Sweet Almond Oil
1 tbsp beeswax
Frankincense – 45 drops
Turmeric – 40 drops
Helichrysum – 30 drops
Birch – 25 drops
Ginger- 20 drops
Orange – 10 drops
Use your hand cream as needed. Keep in your nightstand to wear at night. Many of my clients like to apply before bedtime as they will not be washing their hands. Do not get into the eyes.
Cautions: This blend contains Birch. Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid use with children under 12, women who are nursing or pregnant, and those who take aspirin or other blood-thinning medications. Blend with a carrier oil at a maximum 2.5% dilution prior to topical applications.
Disclaimer: These statements and products have not been evaluated by United States Food and Drug Administration and are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The information given is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional.
