Cellulite consists of abnormal deposition of fat in the subcutaneous tissues resulting into dimpling of the skin. It is largely seen in women and often requires treatment only for cosmetic reasons. Though cellulite often affects obese women, it can also affect women who are thin.
How is cellulite formed?
• The skin contain some inelastic bands of connective tissue that run deep down from the skin to the muscles
• Genetic, hormonal and factors like lack of physical activity coupled with improper diet favor the deposition of fat in areas around the hip, thigh and buttocks.
• The fat bulges out of the skin surface while the connective tissue strands pull the skin to keep it in place leading to the dimpled effect on the skin
• This is exacerbated by the poor circulation of blood and the accumulation of toxins , waste products and water in the body
Role of essential oils in the therapy of cellulite
As the search for ‘the best natural remedy’ to get rid of cellulite continues amongst women, let me throw some light on the role of essential oils in the treatment for cellulite.
What are essential oils?
They are oils that are extracted from plant products and have been used since ancient times for their medicinal value. They are concentrated products which are to be used in very small quantities and have diverse properties which have general and specific medicinal uses. The practice of using essential oils is called as aromatherapy.
How do essential oils work in treatment of cellulite?
• Essentials oils can be used as supplements , baths or for massage purposes
• As oral supplements, essential oils play an important role as antioxidants in detoxification of the body
• When used for massage, they are absorbed from the skin surface and increase the poresize of the small blood vessels beneath the skin.
• This in turn increases the blood flow to the affected areas causing a flushing action of the waste and toxic products accumulated in the body.
• The massaging action also generates heat that helps in lysis of fat
• By removing the dead cells, a good massage will improve the skin tone which itself reduces the appearance of cellulite
Which essential oils can be used for the treatment of cellulite?
The essential oils that are commonly used for cellulite therapy are as follows
1. Evening primrose oil – This oil contains gamma linolenic acid which is an essential fatty acid and helps in the metabolism of fat. It is used as an oral supplement.
2. Juniper, Rosemary, Cypress Geranium, Lemon, Lavender, and Grapefruit oils act as agents which detoxify and purify the blood. They also improve the skin tone by absorbing the excess fluid retained in the body.
3. Avocado oil, Roseship oil, Jojoba oil are other essential oils that prevent dry skin, help absorb other oils from the skin surface faster and don’t get rancid hence can be used as a combination with other oils for massage.
