Instant Remedies for Swollen Ankles and Feet
Essential oils have become a huge part of alternative medicine. They play an important role when it comes to reducing and easing pain. When using essential oils, the gold rule is to dilute them in vegetal oil (olive, coconut, castor etc.). There are at least 4 types of essential oils that have proven to be efficient in easing the pains caused by swollen feet.
Chamomile Oil
Of all the anti-inflammatory oils that you can find in the healthy food stores, chamomile oil is certainly the most popular. The best choice for inflammations is the German chamomile oil. It has a bluish color and it contains a compound that reduces inflammation, heals wounds and treats bug bites.
There are 2 ways of applying this oil: you can massage the affected area with a few drops of diluted chamomile oil or you can apply a clean cloth soaked in hot water and a few drops of chamomile oil, as a compress.
Lavender Oil
Mix 2 drops of lavender essential oil with 1 drop of lemon essential oil and 1 drop of geranium essential oil. Put this mixture in a basin full of warm water and soak your feet for 10 minutes. If the swelling is caused by burns or bug bites or stings, you can apply 1 drop of lavender oil on the affected area and massage gently.
Juniper Oil
Those who have used this oil have shown significant improvement for their rheumatic pains. It also has good reputation when it comes to treating edema and swellings caused by water retention or premenstrual syndrome. If you have swollen and painful feet, you can put a little bit of water in a basin and add ½ teaspoon of juniper oil. Soak your feet in this solution for 20 minutes. You will notice that the swelling will be reduced shortly.
Tea Tree Oil
Thanks to its anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties, this oil is frequently used to treat acne, dandruff and skin infections. What not many people know is that tea tree oil is also extremely efficient for swollen feet. Use this oil to massage the swollen and painful area at least twice a day.
