What is the first thing you reach for when your child has fallen or been knocked against and has a goose egg forming? Probably an ice pack and acetaminophen right? Those were staples in our house for many, many years. Of course having a 2 year old son who bangs his head on something regularly, I needed something that would work without using all sorts of drugs. What I came up with, not only works well, but has a subtle, clean smell that doesn’t overpower. That’s icing on the cake since most accidents also cause headaches that can worsen when exposed to strong odors.

 

• 10 drops Frankincense
• 10 drops Lavender
• 10 drops Roman Chamomile
• 10 drops Copaiba

Originally, I simply layered on a few drops of each. Then, when I saw how well it was working and how much my son enjoyed using it, I decided to actually blend them in a bottle to have on hand. The above mixture will make 2 mL of blended oil, you may increase as desired.

 

A bit about the oils

 

Frankincense oil is extracted from the gum of the Olibanum tree. It has long been touted for its healing properties. Aside from being a powerful disinfectant and anti inflammatory, frankincense has a sedative effect which makes it perfect for this blend. Not only are you treating  an injury, you are soothing the frazzled nerves of the person who is hurt.

 

Lavender oil is extracted from the flowers of the lavender plant, typically using steam distillation. The name Lavender comes from the Latin "Lavare", which translates “ to wash” so you know this is one oil that will disinfect and cleanse! Besides being antibacterial and antiviral, lavender is an excellent pain reliever. Diffusing lavender oil can reduce pain levels, so it is an essential ingredient in any pain relief blend. Lavender is also a well known sedative, so, again, putting it in this blend also benefits the user with a reduction in anxiety and tension. 

 

The scent of lavender has been shown to reduce cortisol in the blood. The body naturally produces cortisol in response to injury and perceived danger. Letting cortisol levels rise too often or for too long is harmful to the body in the long run. Obviously, following an accident, your cortisol levels will soar so adding this oil to an injury blend is important.

 

Copaiba oil is distilled from the resin of the Copaiba tree. This oil, in my opinion, is one of the most important oils to have on hand. Copaiba oil is 50% beta-caryophyllene, which helps inhibit the response of the body to injury. Copaiba's mildly sweet scent helps the body relax, and the oil itself actually boosts the power of other oils in a blend. I use this oil all the time, for so many different things.

 

Roman Chamomile is distilled from the leaves of the chamomile plant. It is known for being a disinfectant as well as an anti inflammatory. Another oil with a mild, clean scent, it is also a relaxant that helps to relieve tension in the body.