It’s that time in the month where I look at the A – Z of Aromatherapy. This month I am looking at the letter K. It is a shorter blog this week as there isn’t as many things to talk about for K. So let’s dive in and take a look.
K
Kidneys – The kidneys are located towards your back and under your lower ribs at either side. With any kidney issues please go to the doctors before anything else, and follow their treatment. Discuss with your doctor and let them know you would like to use aromatherapy in conjunction with any medication they provide. They can advise if what you are proposing will be suitable for the treatment you are receiving. Always always, follow doctors advice. Never ingest any essential oils ever. They are highly toxic and can cause damage so only use on the skin. To help the kidneys a massage will help as essential oils can be absorbed into the skin and bloodstream which will help. Always use in small amounts. A great oil to use if you suffer from kidney infections or fluid retention would be camomile as it is a soothing oil or geranium for it’s eliminating properties and tonic effect. Use with a carrier oil to gently massage into the lower back area around the kidneys, but use only for a short period of time as constant use can have negative effects.
Kernel carrier oils – To use essential oils effectively, particularly in massage or for facials or ailments to be treated with essential oils, the chances are you are going to apply them to the body using a carrier oil which will disperse the effective oils. For a massage the carrier oils provides lubrication to enable the massage therapist hands to glide over the body with ease. Both peach kernel oil and apricot kernel oil are very good moisturisers so are perfect to use for massage but even better for facials particularly if you have dry skin. To use just mix with your preferred essential oils and massage slowly into your face in circular movements.
Knees – Do you suffer from sore knees? Is it arthritis? There are a number of things you can do to help. Lavender essential is a great painkiller whilst lemon essential oil is good for eliminating toxins. Add in ginger oil and this works well to improve your circulation. You could use these oils in a gentle massage, but make sure you mix with a carrier oil such as grapeseed and only add one drop of ginger oil as it goes a long way and a drop or two of the others. If adding them to a bath mix the essential oils with a little vodka to ensure it mixes with the water and swirl it around. Whichever treatment you go for It is always a good idea to move the knee after your massage or bath to ensure the toxins are released and the knee doesn’t stiffen. Do some gentle exercise such as a short walk or chair exercises or yoga.
Please note: Always ensure you follow any instructions regarding essential oils or treatments. Never ingest oils or use them internally. Proceed with caution, particularly if you are pregnant and/or have epilepsy. Seek advice before using any essential oil or treatment as some are not to be used during pregnancy or with epilepsy. Never use essential oils neat on your skin as this can cause irritation (Lavender oil is an exception). If any irritation occurs whilst using the oils, even with a carrier oil, then rinse the affected area and discontinue use.
Thank you for reading, I hope you found this post helpful and it gave you a small insight into the benefits of essential oils. Join me next month when I will be looking at the letter L.
Have a great week and look after you!
Love Emma xx
Wellbeing with Relaxing Lavender 