When I first started using essential oils I felt a little lost. I wasn’t exactly sure how to use them so I did some research and was surprised about what I found out. One of the best ways to apply essential oils was by applying them on the bottoms of the feet.
Why Would I Put Essential Oils on My Feet?
The bottoms of our feet have large pores so the essential oil molecules are able to get absorbed very quickly. Although essential oil massaged anywhere on the outside of your body will wind up on the inside, many aromatherapists believe the bottoms of your feet are especially beneficial to get them into your bloodstream faster, possibly as quick as 20 seconds!
Other quick absorbing areas include behind the ear and on the wrists.
I love the smell of most essential oils but, let’s face it, there are some stinky ones we really don’t want to smell all day. I especially like to apply these ones on my feet because I can get the benefits without the constant smell.
A great example is oregano. The smell is very strong; my son says it smells like spaghetti. I don’t want to smell like a bowl of spaghetti! Oregano’s benefits are HUGE-antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antiseptic properties, this is a germ’s worst nightmare. This is one I like to dilute and put onto my feet.
Using essential oils on feet is also great for young children and people with sensitive skin. The soles of our feet have thick, durable skin and the essential oil has less risk of causing sensitivity.
It is still recommended to dilute, plus diluting makes the oils not only go farther but also allows them to absorb better.
Related Post: Best Essential Oils for Sore Feet
What Is Reflexology?
Ever heard of Reflexology? Reflexology involves applying pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques. It is based on zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands. It is thought that reflexology effects a physical change to the body.
So, the bottoms of our feet represent our entire body; no wonder it is recommended that we apply essential oils on feet. When essential oils are incorporated into reflexology, they can enhance the therapeutic effects of this practice.
The Science Behind Essential Oils and Foot Reflexology
Reflexology works on the principle that certain areas of the feet are energetically connected to other parts of the body. By applying essential oils to these specific points, you can target particular health concerns more effectively.
For instance, peppermint oil applied to the ball of the foot might help with digestive issues, while lavender oil on the arches could promote respiratory health. Combining the physical manipulation of reflexology with the chemical benefits of essential oils creates a potent healing modality.
Enhanced Absorption
The very act of massaging the feet during reflexology can enhance the absorption of essential oils. The pressure applied during reflexology stimulates blood flow and opens up the pores, allowing the oils to penetrate more deeply and circulate more quickly.
This ensures that the therapeutic compounds in the essential oils are delivered exactly where they are needed most.
Holistic Benefits
Reflexology itself offers a range of benefits, including stress reduction, pain relief, improved circulation, and enhanced mood. When you add essential oils to the mix, these benefits are magnified.
The relaxing, calming, and healing properties of the oils work synergistically with the principles of reflexology to offer a deeply holistic treatment. This approach not only addresses physical ailments but also nurtures emotional and mental well-being.
8 Benefits of Using Essential Oils on Feet
1. Reduced swelling
One of the major benefits of using essential oils on your feet is that it can reduce swelling. By massaging certain essential oils into your feet, you can help reduce inflammation and increase circulation.
This can help alleviate swelling caused by various conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory-related illnesses. Additionally, it can also be beneficial for athletes who tend to suffer from swollen feet after exercising or sports activities.
2. Improved circulation
One of the primary benefits of using essential oils on your feet is improved circulation. When you massage your feet with essential oils, it helps to improve the flow of blood to the feet and toes, which helps to improve circulation.
This can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the feet and toes. A ginger massage oil can do wonders when applied to the feet.
Improved circulation also helps to increase oxygen levels in the feet and helps to ease muscular tension. Additionally, increased circulation can help to stimulate the lymphatic system, which helps to eliminate toxins and waste from the body.
3. Reduced pain and soreness
One of the most beneficial effects of using essential oils on feet is reduced pain and soreness. Essential oils have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe tired, sore muscles and reduce the pain associated with plantar fasciitis and other foot ailments.
They also help to reduce the swelling from injuries, such as sprains and fractures.
Additionally, some essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, have been known to help relieve headaches and migraines when used on the feet. When used in combination with a foot massage, essential oils can provide welcome relief to tired feet.
4. Boosted energy
One of the most notable benefits of using essential oils on your feet is increased energy. Not only can the natural compounds found in the oils provide you with a pleasant scent to boost your mood, but the oils can also act as a stimulant for your senses, helping to give you a quick burst of energy when you need it.
These oils can also be used to help relax and soothe your feet, which can in turn help reduce stress and fatigue. Combined with a healthy diet and exercise, essential oils can be used to increase energy levels and improve overall wellbeing.
5. Aid in relaxation
One of the most widely-known benefits of using essential oils on feet is the ability to aid in relaxation. When applied to the feet, the oils are directly absorbed into the system, providing a calming effect that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Essential oils like lavender, sandalwood, bergamot, and chamomile have been used for centuries in many cultures to promote a sense of peace and tranquility. The essential oils can also be used in an aromatherapy session for further relaxation.
The combination of the therapeutic massage, aroma, and essential oils create a calming effect that can allow you to have a restful night’s sleep.
6. Enhanced sleep
Essential oils work on the body in many ways, and one of the most beneficial is improved sleep. When applied to the feet, essential oils can be absorbed into the body and promote relaxation and restful sleep.
When combined with complementary oils, like lavender and sandalwood, the effects are even more powerful. Additionally, you may find that applying the oils to your feet before bed helps to reduce stress, which can also lead to improved sleep.
7. Better mood
One of the most surprising benefits of using essential oils on feet is improved mood. Research has shown that several essential oils, including lavender, jasmine, and geranium, can have a positive effect on our emotional state. When inhaled, these oils can have a calming and soothing effect, helping to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress.
Furthermore, when applied directly to the skin, they can stimulate the production of endorphins, helping to elevate our mood and improve our overall outlook on life.
8. Improved overall health and well-being
One of the greatest benefits of using essential oils on feet is improved overall health and well-being. Essential oils can help reduce stress levels, increase energy, and enhance the quality of sleep.
Studies have also shown that essential oils can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote overall balance in the body.
In addition, many essential oils have proven to be helpful in managing chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, and migraine headaches. Regular use of essential oils on feet can help boost the body's natural healing ability and promote overall wellness.
Final Thoughts on Using Essential Oils on Feet
Overall, using essential oils on the feet is an incredibly beneficial practice for overall health and wellness. Not only do essential oils have antimicrobial properties, but they also create a calming effect that helps to reduce stress and tension.
Furthermore, the use of essential oils helps to improve circulation throughout the body, allowing for better overall health and vitality. With so many benefits, it's easy to see why essential oils are a popular option for foot health.
Now you see why rubbing oils on your feet is a great way to reap the benefits of essential oils. I highly recommend before bedtime each night you apply essential oils with a relaxing foot massage, your feet deserve it, they held you up all day!
Make sure to put socks on so the oils don’t get on your sheets. Also, make sure you are using high-quality therapeutic grade oils so you will get the greatest effects.
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