Aromapothecary I have been asked by a few clients recently about the problem of cellulite.  It is an issue that is seen almost exclusively in women.  Cellulite starts with a build-up of toxins that the body reacts to with water retention to try to dilute the toxins.  The connective tissue and the fat cells then harden and traps the water, which causes the ‘orange peel’ effect.Rosemary Essential Oil

Aromatherapy can be helpful for cellulite.  I would recommend simultaneously looking at diet/nutrition and exercise in combination with aromatherapy.  Aromatherapy treatment is not an overnight answer (as nothing really is for this stubborn condition), but rather a longer term approach.  It all depends how long the condition has been present and how severe it is.  But aromatherapy can be very effective and it is a pleasant treatment to undertake

Using self massage, you would be working to encourage your lymphatic system to work better, and to balance hormones.  You can use a loofah, brush or perhaps a massage glove on the area.  Brush gently but firmly towards the heart.

It has been found that stress also can affect cellulite, by increasing the retention of toxins in the body .  Aromatherapy of course, can be fabulous for relaxation.  Using oils such as sweet orange, lavender, geranium, neroli can be great for combating stress and to help the body to release toxins.

When working with aromatherapy and cellulite – it is beneficial to not stick with one particular blend, but keep the blend changing for optimum effect.

Lime Essential OilAs well as self massage, you could consider visiting a specialised lymphatic drainage massage practitioner, and perhaps in between those sessions, if stress is a factor see a qualified aromatherapist for an aromatherapy massage to aid relaxation.

Aromatherapy oils that are helpful for cellulite would be black pepper, geranium, grapefruit, lemon, lime, rosemary or juniper.

A couple of suggested blends are

10ml Evening Primrose Oil with black pepper 1 drop, grapefruit 3 drops,

lemon 2 drops.

10ml evening primrose oil with rosemary 1 drop, geranium 2 drops, grapefruit

3 drops.

Use this blend daily to self-massage onto the skin, perhaps after bathing/showering and skin brushing.

For complex medical conditions always contact a qualified aromatherapist or your medical professional.