Raynaud’s is a circulatory condition that results from an overreaction to external changes, such as temperature fluctuations. This leaves your extremities (hands, feet, nose, and ears) out in the cold, so to speak. If you have Raynaud’s, your body can have this extreme reaction to stress or mildly cold temperatures. The best to expect with essential-oil application is to reduce conditions of stress and support circulation to the extremities.
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for Raynaud’s are:
• Cardamom
• Cinnamon
• Cypress
• Geranium
• Rosemary
An Ounce of Prevention
In combination with natural remedies, regular massage and baths can improve your circulation and may reduce the overall frequency of attacks.
If you suffer from Raynaud’s, these simple aromatherapy techniques may help.
• Simple massage. Bring blood flow back to your hands and feet by massaging with essential oils that promote circulation.
• Soothing soak. Warming your whole body in a relaxing oil-infused bath may help reduce stress and restore circulation to the extremities.
• Foot soak. A warm-water soak with essential oils and Epsom salts is ideal if your feet are affected by Raynaud’s.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Try supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B complex (niacin is especially good), C, E, and D, and Ginkgo biloba are just some nutrients that are helpful.
• Move your body. Regular exercise can help improve circulation.
• Meditate. Keeping your stress levels low with meditation is always a good thing.
To relieve the symptoms, or even reduce the occurrence of Raynaud’s, these aromatherapy remedies may provide welcome support.
Let the combination of essential oils, a warm bath, and Epsom salts help improve blood flow and relieve the tingle of Raynaud’s.
12 drops rosemary oil
10 drops geranium oil
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 cup Epsom salts
½ cup coarse sea salt
½ cup baking soda
1 dark-glass pint jar
In a large glass bowl, combine the oils. Add in the Epsom salts, sea salt, and baking soda and whisk to combine. Pour the mixture into your jar. Add ¼ to ½ cup of the blend to a hot bath.
Keep a bottle of this circulation-boosting blend handy, especially during the colder months.
2 ounces jojoba oil
10 drops cardamom oil
8 drops cypress oil
2 drops cinnamon oil
1 2-ounce dark-glass bottle
Add all of the oils to the glass bottle and shake to blend. Massage the mixture onto cold hands and feet, as needed. You can also massage it onto your arms and legs to encourage blood to flow to your extremities.