Summer and heat can exacerbate the feeling of heavy legs, which is often accompanied by cramps, swollen ankles, restless legs and itchy calves.
Among the most effective natural solutions, there are essential oils called “anti-inflammatory” and “decongestant” which help reduce inflammation and reduce swelling. One of them also has the particularity of being a “lymphatic tonic”, aimed at improving lymph circulation, which facilitates venous return (heavy legs are often the consequence of poor venous return or venous insufficiency).
This is Himalayan Cedarwood Essential Oil (Cedrus deodara), rich in alpha-pinenes, known for their anti-edematous properties.It is an excellent ally in case of circulatory problems, particularly heavy legs.“, recommends Marie-Amélie de Bernouis, pharmacist-aromatologist, in the “Large guide to essential oils, hydrosols and vegetable oils” (DBS/Cosmetic Valley Editions).
This oil can be used in a simple gesture (extemporaneous mixture (not prepared in advance) of essential oil + vegetable oil) by cutaneous route only (never orally, very rarely by diffusion). For light legs, take a carrier oil, such as a vegetable oil that has a strong affinity with the epidermis (macadamia, sweet almond, hazelnut, argan, etc.). To 10 mL of vegetable oil, add 10 drops of Himalayan cedarwood essential oil, 10 drops of sandalwood essential oil, 2 drops of peppermint essential oil and 5 drops of patchouli essential oil. Massage each leg in the direction of venous return with this mixture, we can read in the book.
“However, caution should be exercised in cases of hormone-dependent pathologies due to its “estrogen-like” effect.“, warns the aromatology pharmacist. In this context and as a precautionary measure, people suffering from hormone-dependent disorders should seek the advice of their doctor before using this oil. Do not use it on pregnant or breastfeeding women, nor on children and epileptic subjects, those with neurological fragility or who are very old. In all cases, carry out a skin test before cutaneous application to avoid any risk of allergy.