One of my favorite holiday scents: Peppermint! Nom Nom!

Peppermint has a sweet refreshing aroma that we have come to associate with the winter season but did you know that in addition to being a yummy flavoring in baked goods and a delish smell for the home, peppermint also holds tons of  health and beauty benefits?

Not just for Candy Canes!  When used in the form of essential oil, peppermint aids in the relief of fatigue, headaches and depression. For the skin, peppermint oil  relieves skin irritation and itchiness and also helps to reduce skin redness, where inflammation is present.

It is often used in balms because of the herb’s ability to increase blood flow, and stimulate nerves. Since peppermint helps to increase blood flow, it also improves dull skin!

This week I have a Pepperminty treat for you from natural skincare expert Elizabeth Alvillar  the owner of Isvara Organics.  Isvara Organics is an amazing  cosmetics and personal care company that serves people & the planet.

“We believe that what goes on your body is as important as what goes in your body.  Skin is the largest organ in the body, providing a substantial surface area through which chemical migration may occur. This is why we believe in the use of natural & organic products for your hair, skin & body. Isvara Organics products are designed to deliver results without the use of chemicals. Over time, our products improve the appearance of your hair & skin by helping to regulate skin and hair function, soothe irritations, and stimulate and support the body’s own healing powers from within. Our products are tested on people, never on animals. Our packaging is made from recyclable materials. Isvara Organics donates a portion of its profits to non profit organizations. ” –Isvara Organics

This easy DIY Peppermint Sugar Body Scrub Recipe from Elizabeth will leave your skin fresh, bright and smoother than a candy cane 😉  giving you the perfect holiday glow!

Isvara’s Peppermint Sugar Scrub Recipe

4 cups sugar
1/2 cup grape seed oil
10 drops peppermint Essential Oil
1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

1.  In a small bowl pour grape seed oil and add peppermint EO.   Stir thoroughly with a spoon and set aside.
2.  In a large bowl pour 2 cups sugar.  Slowly pour oil mixture over sugar and stir until all the sugar is coated with oil.
3.  Slowly add the remaining sugar, stirring until sugar is coated.
4.  Pour into a container with a lid.

*Shelf life is 6 months or more*

Holiday Tip from Elizabeth: For a fun gift try doubling or tripling the recipe.  You can use your mixer to make it super easy.  Carefully spoon finished scrub into interesting glass jars.  (I’ve found beautiful jars at antique shops and thrift stores for only a few dollars.)    Once jars are sealed add a personal touch by tying raffia or ribbon around the jar with a candy cane and wooden spoon.  Get creative!  It’s a fun holiday project that kids will love too.

Not in the mood to DIY?  Help is just a click away! Let Elizabeth and the folks at  Isvara Organics do it for you.  They have a wide range of organic/natural beauty and skin care products perfect for holiday gifting  www.isvaraorganics.com

(Isvara Organics Peppermint Body Wash)

(Isvara Organics Peppermint Body Milk)

Last week’s lucky winner is: Kimiko!  Congrats!