Several years ago I began learning about all the toxins in my self care products. Ironically, the very items I chose to beautify my life were bringing me harm. I was completely unaware that some of my favorite products were adding to my toxic load, having negative effects on my health, energy levels, and mental clarity. I immediately began revamping my beauty cabinet and thinking of ways I could continue to feel luxurious without the worry. While there are plenty of safe products on the market today, I’ve found that some are just best homemade. This coffee scrub is one of them.

Use clean ingredients to cleanse and beautify from the inside out

I choose dōTERRA essential oils, Bulletproof coffee, and organic EVOO for this scrub

Besides brightening our complexion by sloughing off unwanted dead skin cells, coffee scrubs also upgrade us by offering extra yummy health benefits. Self massage, especially with caffeinated coffee grounds, is a great way to stimulate blood flow, increasing circulation and lymphatic drainage. What exactly does that mean for us? It helps flush toxins bringing back that bright glow, inside and out. Secondly, caffeine brightens and firms the skin, lessening the appearance of cellulite.. no expensive creams or scrubs needed! Finally exfoliation increases collagen production and promotes cell rejuvenation, two necessary components of our body’s natural detoxification and rejuvenation process.

One way to better support these processes is through recognizing ingredients matter, even in homemade products. For this recipe, I use Bulletproof coffee beans so I don’t have to worry about mold and other additives commonly found in coffee. If you don’t use Bulletproof choose beans from a single-estate, preferably a high elevation in Central America, and avoid natural-process coffee. According to coffee expert Dave Asprey, that will increase your chance of getting mold-free beans. Secondly I choose organic, raw, unrefined oils. I prefer sesame seed oil or extra virgin olive oil for this scrub as they are a bit heavier and hold up to the coffee, but fractionated coconut oil would also work. Just as you want mold-free coffee and unrefined oils, it’s also important to use clean crafted essential oils. Some brands have additives and use sub-par harvesting and distillation methods, so do your research and choose wisely. You can purchase my favorite brand here. Also, while I love the idea of creating the exact scent I want it’s also important to keep in mind that essential oils are medicinal. They penetrate the blood brain barrier when inhaled and enter the bloodstream through topical application. So, while scent is part of the equation it is not the only factor to consider when choosing an essential oil. Be sure to think about things like the time of day when you will use the scrub and the mood or health benefits you want to support. I’ve included some of my favorites in the tips section below. Another benefit of making your own scrub is that you can use your morning coffee grounds, which equates to less waste, both in the environment and your pocket book. Since my grounds are mostly decaf I usually make this scrub with Kevin’s to get the added tightening and brightening effects of caffeine. If you only have decaf beans, no worries, you’ll still get a great exfoliation, improved circulation, and step out of the shower feeling like a total goddess or god (guys love it too!). Now get in the kitchen and whip up a batch for your next Self Care Sunday. Happy bathing!

Ingredients:

Leftover mold-free coffee grounds, preferably caffeinated

Organic raw sesame seed oil, EVOO, or fractionated coconut oil

Certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils of your choosing

How To:

Place used coffee grounds in a shallow bowl or dish and allow to dry overnight or for several hours. Once dry place in a glass jar. Cover with organic oil of choice. Add a total of 10-15 drops essential oils. Stir to incorporate. Cover with airtight lid. Once ready to use uncap, hop in the shower, and massage all over, paying extra attention to rough, dry spots. I even use this on my face! Rinse grounds from skin and pat to dry. Skin will feel soft and luscious - no need for moisturizer today!

My Tips:

I like to use a mason jar with a plastic lid for rust-free storage in the shower. If you want an extra boost store in refrigerator, taking out just before your shower. The cold scrub will wake you up and boost those mitochondria! Alternate essential oils based on season, health needs, and mood. Some of my favorite combos are Cypress and Grapefruit for when I need energy, Copaiba or Cedarwood and Rose for when I could use some grounding, Frankincense and Myrrh for balance, increased cellular function, and glowing skin, and Peppermint and Wild Orange for days when I want to lift the brain fog and upgrade my mental clarity. All oils can be purchased here.

What are your favorite combos? I’d love to hear. Drop me a line below and follow me on Instagram to stay in touch. Also, stay tuned to hear the exact essential oils I use to keep myself dysautonomia strong.