Being fairly new to the science of aromatherapy, I have dabbled with a few methods and ideas using essential oil diffusers or directly applying essential oils to the skin. I like the enhanced benefits of combining the goodness of essential oils with the properties of virgin coconut oil.

As a carrier oil, coconut oil can be blended with essential oils to diffuse and carry them over the skin. The more potent oils especially, like peppermint and eucalyptus, that may irritate skin with direct contact, are best mixed with coconut oil. Coconut oil, mixed with your favorite relaxing scent, makes a great massage oil. Mixed with peppermint and applied to the temples or neck (not too close to the eyes), it is a wonderful stress and tension reducer. The coconut oil melts at body temperature and absorbs into the skin quickly and fully so you aren’t left with a greasy residue.

Another useful way to combine essential oils and coconut oil is this salve applied to dry, irritated skin.

4 parts coconut oil
1 part beeswax
several drops essential oil

Watch this video for instructions on how to make the salve:
Coconut Oil for Aromatherapy —powered by eHow.com

This would be a perfect salve to sooth dry skin, rashes, sunburn, bug bites, etc…using lavendar for the essential oil. Why, because lavender is so good for soothing and healing the skin (and the nerves.) And, don’t forget that coconut oil is such a great moisturizer.

The possibilities are endless…just become informed about the benefits of various essential oils and make your own coconut oil concoctions to enhance your health and wellbeing!