Beautiful You by Suzanne Edmonds

Each week, beauty enthusiast Suzanne Edmonds explores the best ways to take care of ourselves so that we love the skin we're in.

When it comes to beauty, health and wellbeing Mother Nature knows best.

I am a great believer in keeping things as natural as possible and I am not alone in my yearning to return to a simpler way of life.

In this fast-paced modern world, where stress is at an all-time high and our bodies are bombarded daily with potentially harmful chemicals, it’s time to literally take a leaf out of Mother Nature’s book.

Essential oils are the closest thing I know to Mother Nature in a bottle.

Made from highly-concentrated plant components, essential oils have been used for thousands of years for cosmetic purposes.

From helping you to relax to improving your skin, they have miraculous properties that can have a healing effect mentally, physically and emotionally.

As their purity comes from the way in which they are extracted – through steam distillation and cold pressing – it is important to purchase only high-quality essential oils, to for maximum benefit

Because they are so concentrated, in most cases, they should not be used directly on your skin, but rather diluted in water or a carrier oil, such as almond oil, depending on their application.

My Top Ten are listed below:

1) Tea Tree is great for treating skin problems. Dab it on acne or apply it to skin fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot.

2) Lavender is well known for promoting relaxation. A few drops in your bath and on your pillow at night will do wonders in helping you wind down for the day. (Essential oils lack fatty acids, so it won’t mark your linen.)

3) Chamomile is another great relaxant. Sprinkle it on your pillow at bedtime for a restful night’s sleep.

4) Lemon oil is good for boosting alertness and increasing focus and concentration.

5) Peppermint can also increase mental alertness and helps digestion. One of a handful of oils that can be taken internally, mix a few drops in water and drink.

6) Calendula, which comes from the marigold plant, is particularly good for sensitive skin and can help reduce acne scars.

7) Frankincense can be used for depression, immunity, inflammation and relaxation. Dab it on minor cuts and insect bites to help them heal.

8) Eucalyptus can help clear your airways if you are suffering from allergies or a cold. Use it in a vaporiser or dilute it and apply it inside your nose to relieve congestion.

9) Oregano can be taken to help with winter ailments. A few drops on the tongue can help fight a cold but, be warned, it is very strong tasting!

10) Grapefruit has similar properties to lemon oil. It’s great for fatigue and worth trying if you are suffering from jet lag.

* Please note: Essential oils are very highly concentrated and potent, so it is important to always check the specific safety data provided. If you have any underlying health issues please consult with a licensed medical health practitioner before using essential oils.

Suzanne Edmonds is the owner of De Lux Beauty of Cherrywood, Tauranga.

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