Essential Oil Recipe for Cracked Heels
There have been studies and anecdotal evidence supporting the use of essential oils for cracked heels. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment highlighted the moisturizing effects of essential oils like tea tree and lavender on dry skin conditions. These oils not only provide hydration but also possess antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help prevent infections in cracked skin.
Additionally, a separate study in Phytotherapy Research examined the efficacy of a blend of essential oils, including chamomile and frankincense, in improving skin barrier function and promoting healing in conditions like dermatitis and dry skin.
For practical application, many people have found success using a combination of these essential oils mixed with carrier oils, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to massage into cracked heels, providing both nourishment and relief.
The following three recipes have also been successful in treating cracked heels.
Recipes for Essential Oil Recipe for Cracked Heels
1. Lavender Foot Balm
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 tablespoon shea butter
10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
Melt the coconut oil and shea butter in a double boiler until fully liquefied.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Stir in the lavender essential oil.
Pour the mixture into a small container and let it solidify.
Apply generously to cracked heels before bedtime and cover with socks for better absorption.
2. Tea Tree Oil Foot Scrub
Ingredients:
½ cup sugar
¼ cup olive oil
10 drops tea tree essential oil
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the sugar and olive oil until combined.
Add the tea tree essential oil and mix thoroughly.
Use this scrub in the shower (sitting down on a seat so you don’t fall), massaging it onto your heels for 5–10 minutes to exfoliate and cleanse.
Rinse off and follow up with a moisturizer for soft feet.
3. Frankincense and Chamomile Foot Soak
Ingredients:
4 cups warm water
1 cup Epsom salt
10 drops frankincense essential oil
5 drops chamomile essential oil
Instructions:
Fill a basin with warm water and mix in the Epsom salt until dissolved.
Add the frankincense and chamomile essential oils and stir well.
Soak your feet for 15–20 minutes to relax and hydrate the skin.
Gently pat your feet dry and apply a nourishing foot cream afterward.
References:
Cavanagh, H. M. A., & Wilkinson, J. M. (2002). "Biological activities of lavender essential oil." Phytotherapy Research, 16(4), 301-308.
Carson, C. F., & Riley, T. V. (1995). "The effectiveness of tea tree oil in treating acne." American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 6(3), 157-165.
Niranjan, A., et al. (2016). "Role of Boswellia serrata in the management of inflammatory diseases." Current Drug Targets, 17(3), 301-314.
McKay, D. L., & Miller, A. L. (2004). "Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of chamomile." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 10(4), 727-733.