Make Your Own Lotion – Peppermint Body Butter
It’s taken a few trial and errors to make a body butter I really like, one that is simple to make and nourishing without leaving my skin feeling too oily.
I like to keep things simple, the fewer the ingredients, the better. Any of these items can be found in most local health stores or ordered online.
Shea butter is derived from the nut of the African Shea tree. It is high in fatty acids and vitamins such as vitamins A and E. It naturally has a thick, creamy consistency to it which I like.
Jojoba oil is a liquid plant wax that comes from the seeds of the Jojoba shrub and is native to parts of California, Arizona and Mexico. Jojoba oil has emollient properties which balances moisture levels in the skin. I often use jojoba oil on its own to treat dry skin.
Peppermint essential oil can have a soothing effect on the nervous system and helps to relieve muscle and joint pain as well as headaches. The cooling effect after applying can be felt almost instantly but be sure to keep away from eyes.
What You Need…
1/2 Cup Shea Butter
2 TBSP Jojoba Oil
- Peppermint Essential Oil (20-30 drops)
In a double boiler, melt the shea butter over low to medium heat. Make sure the shea butter is completely melted, I’ve rushed this step in the past and my lotion had a grainy feel to it rather than the smooth creamy texture of body butter. Add jojoba oil and mix.
Remove from heat and cool to semi-solid form. You can place in the fridge or freezer to speed up this process. Once firm (solid but not hard) add 20-30 drops of peppermint essential oil. Whisk by hand or use an electric mixer until body butter is whipped.
Spoon into container for use. Store at room temperature and use as needed.
