Essential oils, distilled from the leaves, seeds, roots, flowers, resins and barks of plants and trees, are used for a variety of medicinal purposes and skin care products, according to Metropolitan State College of Denver. Because essential oils are highly concentrated, they should be diluted before use. When combined with lotions, creams or carrier oils, many essential oils are thought to have moisturizing and healing properties that are effective treatments for dry hands.
Tea Tree
Tea tree essential oil, or melaleuca oil, is a beneficial oil extracted from the crushed leaves of the tea tree. Although the tea tree is native to Australia, the trees are now cultivated in other areas, including the South Pacific and New South Wales. Tea tree is used for a variety of skin conditions, including dry, irritated hands. Combine tea tree oil with carrier oils such as sunflower oil or sweet almond oil, or add several drops of the oil to your favorite lotion or cream.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil, distilled from the purple flowers of the lavender plant, is another essential oil, valued especially for its therapeutic, relaxing qualities. Combine lavender essential oils with carrier oils such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil. Alternatively, make a lavender oil hand wash by simmering 1/2 cup of lavender blossoms and dried sage in 2 cups of water. Strain the herbs and stir in 8 drops of lavender essential oil. Dip a washcloth in the lavender mixture and pat it on dry, chapped hands. Lavender essential oil is also useful for its antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities.
Peppermint
Peppermint is distilled from the dark, fragrant leaves of the peppermint plant. The plant is native to Asia and Europe, but has now naturalized to North America, where the plant is often found growing wild in temperate climates. Peppermint oil sooths, cools and invigorates dry, chapped hands, leaving them with a sweet, refreshing scent. Peppermint oil is commonly combined with creams and lotions, or blended with carrier oils. The oil should be diluted, as it is strong and can cause a rash when applied directly to the skin.
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