I absolutely love coconut oil. It is so incredibly useful for just about anything from cooking to homeopathy. I always have a jar of it around for this reason. So, when my husband started coming down with a cold last month, I knew I had to create something quickly to help him find some relief.
There is nothing much more wonderful that that feeling we all probably had as a child where our mother or father, or maybe a grandparent or aunt would rub vaporub on our chest and feet when we were sick. That loving touch was so needed at that moment. The problem is, vaporub and products like it contain petroleum products and I try not to use them on my skin or my loved oneās skin. Coconut oil has a low melting point so it is a perfect substitute and I actually find it superior.
This DIY vaporub is perfect for any age over 10 years because of the eucalyptus and peppermint, which is not recommended for under 10, (including those with the ‘man coldā) and it will soothe away the sickies. It can be made in less than 5 minutes and since you make it by heating it up, it is awesome and warming as well.
DIY Congestion Chest Rub
You will need:
1 Cup of Coconut Oil
20-30 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil
20 Drops of Peppermint Essential Oil
15 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil
15 Drops of Rosemary Essential Oil
To make DIY Congestion Chest Rub:
Simply turn the stove on to medium heat and add the cup of coconut oil to a pot. Allow it to melt completely and add in your essential oils, one at a time, stirring gently to combine. Pour your mixture into a container and allow it to solidify partially before applying. You donāt want to rub it on until it cools a little.
You can rub it onto chests, tummies and bottoms of the feet for relief from congestion, colds and just because someone needs a bit of pampering. It also works well as a rub for tired feet. Cover it with a lid and it will store just fine for 6 months. You can re-heat it if you want to.
Keep in mind I am not a doctor or aromatherapist. Ask a professional for advice. This is not meant to treat, cure or diagnose any illness.
Love this alot thank you for sharing. One thing I noticed that you stored it in a plastic container. Iāve always been told to put in glass or stainless steel unless the plastic container is of the essential oils grade. Reason is oils can break down the chemicals in the plastic and then itās going into you.
I normally do store it in glass. I just used this for the picture. All my glass ones were being used and I had to grab what I could haha š
Can this be used on babies?
Kerry, I did a little digging and it looks like there is mixed feelings on whether two of the ingredients, (eucalyptus and peppermint) are safe for children under 10. I found that some say no for under 6 for peppermint and no for under 10 for eucalyptus. I have adjusted my post to include that. I would suggest you talk to a doctor or an aromatherapist for the best advice as I am not either. Thanks for your comment!