Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but those tired, swollen legs and ankles? Not so much! This refreshing leg relief cream combines cooling green tea with soothing essential oils to create the perfect remedy for pregnancy-related swelling and discomfort.
Why We Love These Ingredients
Shea Butter: Rich in vitamins A and E, this non-greasy butter absorbs beautifully while providing deep moisture.
Coconut Oil: Helps create a smooth texture while supporting your skin's natural moisture barrier. It works perfectly with shea butter for easy application.
Aloe Vera Gel: Nature's cooling agent! Provides immediate relief while hydrating without heaviness.
Green Tea: Contains natural anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce swelling.
Peppermint Essential Oil: Creates a gentle cooling sensation that feels amazing on tired legs. We've kept the amount pregnancy-safe for peace of mind.
Lavender Essential Oil: Calming and soothing for both your skin and your senses - perfect for pregnancy stress!
What You'll Need:
1/2 cup (120g) shea butter
1/4 cup (60ml) coconut oil
2 tablespoons (30ml) aloe vera gel
1 tablespoon (15ml) strong-brewed green tea, cooled
1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
4 drops peppermint essential oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Clean jar with tight-fitting lid
Heat-safe bowl
How to Make It:
1. Brew a strong cup of green tea using two tea bags and let it cool completely
2. Create a simple water bath by filling a pot with 2 inches of water and bringing to a gentle simmer
3. Place your shea butter and coconut oil in a heat-safe bowl on top of the water bath
4. Gently melt the oils, stirring occasionally until just a few small pieces remain
5. Remove from heat and let cool for about 15 minutes (you want it soft but not completely liquid)
6. Whip the butter and oil mixture with your mixer until it starts looking fluffy
7. Slowly add your cooled green tea and aloe vera gel while continuing to whip
8. Add vitamin E oil and essential oils
9. Keep whipping until it's light and creamy - you'll see it get visibly fluffier and lighter in color!
10. Spoon into your clean jar without packing it down too tight
How to Use It:
1. Start with clean, dry legs (or apply after showering on slightly damp skin)
2. Scoop a small amount into your hands
3. Apply to legs, ankles and feet using gentle upward strokes
4. Focus extra cream on ankles or any particularly swollen areas
5. For best results, elevate your feet while applying or immediately after
6. Use whenever you need relief - especially at the end of the day or before bed
Real Tips From Our Experience:
Keep this cream in the refrigerator for an extra cooling effect - absolute heaven on hot summer days!
This makes a perfect gift for a baby shower or pregnancy care package
Double batch: Make extra during your third trimester - it works wonders for postpartum swelling too!
When to Expect Results
The cooling sensation will be immediate, but the reduction in swelling generally takes about 30 minutes to really notice. Regular use helps maintain comfort throughout your pregnancy journey.
Not Just For Pregnancy!
While we developed this cream with pregnant mamas in mind, it's fantastic for anyone with tired, achy legs! It's perfect after long hikes, intense workouts, or days spent on your feet. The cooling sensation from peppermint combined with the anti-inflammatory properties of green tea works wonders for athletes, nurses, teachers, or anyone experiencing temporary swelling and fatigue in their legs. Keep a jar in your gym bag or by your bedside for quick relief anytime.
Keep It Simple
This DIY solution avoids unnecessary chemicals, and gives you complete control over what you're putting on your body during this special time.
Give it a try and let us know how it works for you! Share your experience in the comments or tag us in your pregnancy self-care photos on Instagram.
xx
Your Non-Toxic Beauty Team at Era of Nature
P.S. Looking for more pregnancy-safe DIY recipes? Check out our Mango Butter recipe to help prevent stretch marks naturally!
