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It is my good fortune to be spending a few months in Italy! Apart from delighting in the food, architecture, scenery and sun I have found it encouraging to discover how many people are ‘tuned in’ to the use of natural remedies and massage for good health. L’Herboristes (herbalists) are found even in small villages, and massage is the first course of treatment recommended by physicians for injuries. There is also an acute awareness in Italy of the effects of toxins on health.
What is Italy without recipes? I came across a few Italian recipes for using essential oils in the home, and thought I would share them with you.
Italian Mood Spray
1 tsp geranium oil
1 tsp bergamot oil
1 tsp lavender oil
50 drops cinnamon oil
20 drops clove oil
Mix together in a 30ml bottle and shake well.
Then in a labeled spray bottle, add 1-2 teaspoons of the oil blend, 50ml vodka or brandy and 1 cup of distilled water. Shake well before use.
Italian wood and window wash
1 tsp bergamot oil
½ tsp lavender oil
20 drops mandarin oil
20 drops cedar oil
20 drops sandalwood oil
Place all the oils in a dark glass bottle and blend well.
Leave for five days before use, to allow the oils to infuse. Store this in a dark place and use neat for applying to woodwork, and diluted for cleaning windows.
And to polish…
Try olive oil and lemon juice – ¼cup of each and a few drops of lemon essential oil.
A natural bathroom protector
1½ tsp lemon oil
1 tsp bergamot oil
1tsp pine oil
½tsp citronella oil
½tsp thyme oil
½tsp tea tree oil
Place in a 30ml glass bottle and shake well. Again, wait five days before using.
Take a little time and you will be able to get used to life without detergents and harsh chemical cleaners. Remember there are always alternatives to everything we use!
Ciao!
