Ever since our family relocated near the beach a few years ago, we spend a lot of time there. While I enjoy the benefits of healthy sun exposure, dealing with sunburn is not ideal. Although I rarely burn now, when it does happen, I prefer using natural remedies to soothe the affected area. These sunburn ice cubes contain skin-soothing ingredients that aid in faster healing and provide quick relief!
As an Irish person, I used to either slather on sunscreen or end up with a bad sunburn when I was younger. However, after changing my diet and incorporating specific supplements, I have noticed a significant improvement in my sun tolerance. Nevertheless, I am cautious about prolonged sun exposure and always make sure to cover up or find shade when needed. Moderate and healthy sun exposure is crucial for adequate vitamin D intake, which comes with numerous benefits. Despite my love for the sun, I am careful to avoid sunburns.
When it comes to sunburns, I have developed various cooling sprays and natural remedies over time to help with soothing the skin. However, these remedies tend to have a short shelf life in the fridge and require mixing each time I use them. Aloe vera is one of my favorite go-to remedies for sunburn due to its quick and easy application. For those without access to fresh aloe vera, these soothing ice cubes serve as a convenient alternative.
Before delving into the benefits of each ingredient, it is essential to understand the rationale behind using herbal ice cubes. While ice may provide immediate relief on sunburned skin, health experts advise against its use as it can slow down the healing process by reducing blood flow to the area. By incorporating herbs that promote healing and increase blood flow, these ice cubes address this issue while offering cooling relief.
Sunburn Soothing Ice Cubes
Throughout the years, I have experimented with a variety of herbs to create remedies for soothing sunburns. While aloe vera remains a popular choice, these ice cubes provide a longer-lasting and convenient solution, especially for those without access to fresh aloe vera.
Among the key ingredients in these herbal ice cubes is aloe vera gel, known for its pain-relieving properties and ability to calm inflammation. Opting for natural aloe vera gel without harsh preservatives is recommended for optimal benefits. Aloe vera helps to moisturize damaged skin, reduce inflammation, and provide a cooling sensation for sunburn relief.
Comfrey
Known as the “bone knit” plant, comfrey boasts exceptional healing properties, particularly in accelerating tissue repair and promoting healthy skin cell formation. This herb is effective in calming inflammation and aiding in the healing of damaged skin, making it a valuable addition to these ice cubes.
Calendula
Calendula, a gentle herb with versatile skin benefits, is a key ingredient in this recipe. It helps soothe inflammation, promote wound healing, and improve blood circulation. Whether used for cuts, burns, rashes, or sunburns, calendula provides a soothing and cleansing effect on the skin.
Lavender
Lavender, another skin-soothing herb, is known for its disinfectant properties and ability to accelerate wound healing. Whether in essential oil form or as an herb, lavender aids in soothing pain, promoting circulation, and enhancing skin healing.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow, with its soothing properties, helps cool and moisturize irritated skin, making it an excellent addition to this recipe. By calming inflammation and forming a protective barrier over tissues, marshmallow contributes to the overall skin-healing benefits of these ice cubes.
Peppermint
Peppermint, the final ingredient in these soothing ice cubes, offers a unique blend of warming and cooling sensations due to its menthol content. Acting as a vasodilator, peppermint stimulates circulation and provides a cooling effect when combined with other cooling ingredients. Its minty freshness helps alleviate the discomfort of sunburns.
While it’s not necessary to include all the herbs mentioned, I recommend using a combination of aloe vera, mint, and at least one other soothing herb to maximize the benefits. These herbs work synergistically to soothe and heal sunburned skin effectively.
Sunburn Soothing Ice Cubes
These refreshing ice cubes feature skin soothing and healing ingredients to help cool sunburn.
Yield: 12 ice cubes
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In a small pot, bring the water to a boil.
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Add the herbs, cover with a lid, and turn off the heat. Let steep for 15 minutes.
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Strain the herbs out and reserve the water. Ensure you have at least 1 and 3/4 cups of tea. Chill the herbal tea in the fridge.
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Once the herbal tea has cooled, stir in the aloe vera gel.
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Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze.
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Apply the sunburn soothing ice cubes to the affected skin as needed for cooling and relief.
- You can store your sunburn soothing ice cubes in a reusable silicone bag in the freezer until ready to use.
- These ice cubes should remain effective for at least a year when stored in the freezer.
What’s your preferred remedy for sunburns? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
