How to Improve Blood Circulation with Essential Oils - Circulation

Essential oils are the extremely concentrated essences of plants. The volatile oils and other medicinal compounds are extracted from flowers, leaves, bark, stems, or roots of a plant. To improve blood circulation, the properties of the essential oil enter through the skin. They are then absorbed into the blood stream. Massage, which increases circulation, will encourage the uptake of the medicinal properties. Heat as well makes the essential oils more effective.

Using essential oils as an alternative treatment can be very effective, but keep in mind that they are very potent; so much so that they should not be directly applied to the skin. Blend them into a carrier oil or a fragrance-free lotion for direct content, or dilute them in water for a therapeutic bath. Good carrier oils are almond oil, apricot oil, jojoba, avocado, grape seed, and olive oil. Use twenty-five drops of essential oil for every two ounces of a carrier oil; twenty-five drops for eight ounces of lotion; and, eight to ten drops diluted in a cup of water for a bath.

The Best Essential Oils for Blood Flow
There are several essential oils which have a direct effect on the circulatory system. Some, such as juniper oil and marjoram oil help to dilate blood vessels, thereby allowing more space for blood flow. Others, such as cypress oil and geranium oil have astringent properties, and act by toning vessels. Other essential oils that improve circulation include ginger oil, clove oil, and black pepper oil, which are all warming by nature, frankincense oil, which is an anti-inflammatory, and has a natural relaxing effect, as well as lemon oil and mandarin oil.

Most essential oils blend well together. A good blend for circulation would be a combination of mandarin essential oil, with juniper and cypress. Always use authentic essential oils, as more inexpensive imitations are only meant for their pleasant odor - they do not carry medicinal properties. Also, it is best not to use essential oils while pregnant as there is a slight chance of irritation.

Using essential oils is one natural way to improve blood circulation; but, it is also important to be conscious of factors which can continue to inhibit blood circulation, such as diet, lifestyle choices, and exercise.