Have you been lifting cars to save trapped kittens again? Bench pressing two year-olds who keep flinging themselves onto you while you read a book? Or maybe you just exercised a little more than usual and discovered a muscle (or ten) you hadn’t noticed in awhile? Well then, I have just the thing for you. This homemade rub is a relaxing treat that soothes tense, tired, or achy muscles.
Unlike this homemade muscle rub that creates a warming sensation and then transitions to a cooling sensation – which is AMAZING but not safe for pregnant mamas and kids – this blend offers an option safe for everyone over age two. But don’t think that just because it’s safe for kids that it’s not a powerful muscle soother, because it absolutely is.
As mentioned in this post on safe essential oils for pregnant and breastfeeding women, according to clinical aromatherapist and Aromahead Institute founder Andrea Butje, “it is generally suggested that the mother use very little essential oil during the first trimester, and only as needed at a 1% dilution. For anyone concerned about the use of oils they should be avoided completely during the first trimester.”
She adds that, “The more you use, the more you absorb… so don’t use essential oils every day during pregnancy. Reserve essential oil use for health support, such as relieving nausea, calming anxiety, or supporting sleep. By minimizing use, essential oils can be safely used in times of need.” In the recipe below, that means you’d cut the number of drops in the 2% dilution by half.
This recipe makes 6 fluid ounces.
This blend starts at a 2% dilution, but if needed you can increase it to a 5% dilution. Neither peppermint nor eucalyptus are recommended for use around small children or breastfeeding mamas (they may affect milk supply and wouldn’t feel good if accidentally rubbed near a nursing baby’s eyes!). For breastfeeding mamas, I’ve included an alternative essential oil blend below.
2% dilution:
5% dilution:
For breastfeeding mamas and children over two, a 2-5% dilution of Plant Therapy’s blend, Tame The Pain, is considered appropriate.
I recommend storing this rub in the fridge to preserve shelf-life, which should be around 6-12 months.
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This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Sheila Kilbane, MD, a board-certified pediatrician, trained in integrative medicine. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
About HEATHER
Heather Dessinger, founder of Mommypotamus.com and Board Certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Practitioner (FDN-P), has spent 15+ years blending research and real life to make wellness feel doable. Her site is home to wholesome recipes, clear and actionable health insights, and DIY solutions that make living well easier.