Monarda essential oil is derived from a flower more colloquially known as bee balm. The oil has a light, citrus-like scent, and it is said to have a lot of therapeutic benefits, such as relieving coughs, reducing inflammation, and soothing skin. You can, of course, use monarda essential oil by putting it in a diffuser or applying it directly to your skin. However, there are also some more creative ways to use this oil.

Make your own body butter.

If you're applying monarda essential oil to your skin to help with dryness and itchiness, it can get a little messy. An alternative is to make your own body butter, incorporating the monarda essential oil as an ingredient. Start with about 1/2 cup of shea butter. Warm it gently on the stove until it becomes a liquid. Then, add about a tablespoon of monarda essential oil. Stir well to incorporate. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl, and wait for it to come to room temperature. When it does, use a mixer or beater to whip it until it becomes lighter and fluffier. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar, and use as you would any other body butter.

Simmer it on the stove.

If you're using monarda essential oil for aromatherapy, then putting it in a diffuser is an option. However, some people don't think diffusers throw quite enough of the scent. You can impart a stronger scent into your home by simmering the monarda essential oil on the stove. Fill a saucepan with water and add a few drops of monarda essential oil. Bring the whole thing to a simmer, and let it simmer until the water is mostly gone. If you have a cough or an irritated throat, standing next to the simmering monarda essential oil and inhaling is a nice way to soothe it.

Make lemonade.

If you take monarda essential oil orally, you might be turned off by the overly herbal flavor at first. A good way to mask this flavor is to make lemonade. The herbal notes of the monarda essential oil actually pair well with the recipe. You can simply add a few drops of monarda essential oil to any lemonade recipe you prefer. Add some ice, sip, and enjoy.

Monarda essential oil is so versatile, not only in its benefits, but also in the many ways you can use it and enjoy it for your health. For more information on monarda essential oil, contact a company near you.