Star Secret to VIBRANT HEALTH

Science proves it: Pampering yourself with healing essential oils can help you feel your all-time best

When it comes to looking and feeling ageless, A-listers have access to all the trendiest (and priciest!) procedures and potions. So we were surprised to learn that our favorite “been there, done that” beauties, like Mary Steenburgen, skip the fads and instead rely on a timetested low-cost option: essential oils. These plant extracts have been used for thousands of years, and now science proves they work, says Prudence Hall, M.D., director of The Hall Center in Santa Monica, Calif. “Essential oils are powerful healers that are safe and inexpensive.” Read on for the oil that will revitalize you!

TO BOOST ENERGY

Inhaling the aroma of peppermint stimulates the brain’s limbic system, quickly boosting the output of energizing beta brain waves. And researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that the scent also increases mental accuracy by 28 percent. For an immediate energy boost, take three slow, deep breaths of peppermint essential oil.

TO HEAL DRY SKIN

“Estrogen helps keep skin plump and hydrated, so when levels drop at menopause, skin can become dry and itchy,” notes Dr. Hall. But myrrh can help: A report in the Journal of Immunotoxicology reveals myrrh’s active ingredients reduce skin inflammation by up to 30 percent to speed the healing of irritated tissues and increase moisture retention. Just mix 1 drop of myrrh essential oil into a dollop of unscented lotion and apply to dry skin before bed.

TO SOOTHE MINOR ACHES

Massaging tender spots with diluted juniper essential oil relieves sore, achy muscles in 5 minutes, plus promotes the healing of injured tissues, suggests research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Juniper oil contains phytochemicals that relax muscles and reduce inflammation and pain. To knock out aches, mix 25 drops of juniper essential oil into 2 oz. of canola oil and rub into sore tissues for 2 minutes twice daily.

TO WARD OFF COLDS

The active ingredients in highquality oregano essential oil are potent antivirals shown in more than a dozen studies to reduce risk of colds and other viral infections for 85 percent of people — plus speed recovery time if a cold does take hold. Some doctors suggest (but check with yours first) mixing 3 drops of oregano essential oil into 4 oz. of water or juice and sipping once a week.

“Essential oils are extremely important to me. If I’m feeling unfocused or a little tired, I pull out a peppermint blend.” Mary Steenburgen, 64