Essential Oils Soothe Varicosities

Mediterranean mastick (Pistacia lentiscus) tree bark provides an effective massage oil for treating varicose veins. Although it is neither common nor a pleasant-smelling oil, and is rather expensive, it is well worth using. One alternative to mastick is cypress (Cupressus sempervirens). This essential oil is readily available, reasonably priced, nice smelling and an effective astringent that tones and tightens veins. Other useful essential oils include lavender (Lavandula vera), juniper (Juniperus communis), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), geranium (Pelargonium spp.) and German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla).

Suggested blend:

• 10 drops cypress or 5 drops mastick
• 10 drops lavender or geranium
• 5 drops rosemary or juniper
• 5 drops chamomile

The blend can be made into a massage oil at a 3 percent dilution by adding 15 drops essential oil blend per ounce of carrier oil. Two good carrier oils are a high-flavonoid herb infusion of calendula (Calendula officinalis) or St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) oil. Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) tincture or oil is also an effective carrier oil.

The blend should be applied gently to the legs several times daily. Advise customers to massage only above the varicose area because applying pressure below the varicosity will increase pressure in the vein.

For treating hemorrhoids, squeeze one tablespoon water-soluble lubricating jelly into a small, widemouth jar and mix in approximately five drops essential oil blend. Alternatively, mix the jelly with the same amount of calendula salve or St. John's wort oil. Apply several times daily as needed.

—M.G.