Ingredients:
10 whole cloves
½ cup of carrier oil (preferably fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or extra virgin olive oil, for their emollient and penetrating properties)
5 sprigs of fresh rosemary (optional, for its circulatory and anti-inflammatory effects)
10 drops of ginger essential oil (optional, to enhance warmth and relief).
Preparation:
Place the whole cloves and rosemary sprigs in a glass jar with a lid.
Gently warm the carrier oil in a double boiler (without boiling) and pour it over the herbs.
Seal the jar and let it macerate in a cool, dark place for at least 10-14 days, gently shaking it every two days.
After this time, strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
Add the drops of ginger essential oil, if using, and mix well.
Store the resulting oil in a dark, labeled, and dated bottle. It will keep for up to 6 months.
Application: Gently massage the affected joints (knees, elbows, wrists) with a small amount of this oil, using circular motions for 5-10 minutes. Ideally, apply twice a day, especially after showering when pores are open. Do not apply to broken skin. Perform an allergy test on a small area of skin before extensive use.
2. Cooling Ointment for Varicose Veins and Heavy Legs
This ointment has a cooling and venous-toning effect, helping to improve blood circulation and reduce vein inflammation.
Ingredients:
15 ground cloves (you can grind them in a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder).
½ cup of pure aloe vera gel (cooling and soothing).
¼ cup of witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) hydrosol or concentrated infusion (astringent and vasoconstrictor).
2 tablespoons of green clay (optional, for an anti-inflammatory effect).
10 drops of cypress essential oil (optional, for its vasoconstrictive and venotonic action).
Preparation:
In a glass bowl, mix the aloe vera gel with the witch hazel until fully combined.
Add the ground cloves gradually, stirring to avoid lumps.
If using green clay, add it at this point and mix until you obtain a smooth paste.
Finally, add the drops of cypress essential oil, if using.
Store the ointment in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for approximately two weeks.
Application:
Wash and thoroughly dry your legs. Apply a thin layer of the ointment from your ankles to your thighs, always in an upward motion (never in circles or with heavy pressure). Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and then rinse with cool water. Use preferably at night. Avoid applying directly to open varicose ulcers.
3. Circulatory and Anti-inflammatory Infusion
This beverage works from the inside out, helping to reduce systemic inflammation and improve vascular health.
