Natural Sunscreen

Guest post by Catherine Von Hatten

While researching effective carrier oils to use with essential oils, I discovered that sesame oil acts to screen out about 30% of the sun’s burning rays. In fact, it is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in manufactured sunscreens.

While most experts would advise minimizing sun exposure, if you find yourself in a situation where you are going to be in the sun and don’t want to use sunscreen with chemicals, sesame oil is a good alternative. I was recently boating on vacation and knew I was going to be in the sun a lot, so I decided to give it a try. The only sunburned places on me were ones where I missed when applying the oil! It was very effective, even in strong Caribbean sun.

I understand that if you use unrefined sesame oil, it has a milder aroma that that usually sold in supermarkets. I did not mind trading the nutty smell for all the chemicals in regular sunscreen. The good news is that sesame oil has other health benefits, as well:

·      It makes a good facial oil because it doesn’t cause break-outs.

·      It is good for eczema, psoriasis, and prematurely aging skin.

·      One study suggests that the linoleic acid in sesame oil may inhibit the growth of some malignant melanocytes (skin cancer.)

·      It is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat depression, nervous disorders, poor circulation, and stress.

·      And, it has a long shelf life…one year from opening if refrigerated.

For more information and to find recipes for use with sesame oil and essential oils see Roberta Wilson’s book, Aromatherapy: Essential Oils for Vibrant Health and Beauty.