Most people would agree that chocolate is an essential for Valentine’s Day. Creating your own chocolates for yourself or your sweetheart is fun and easy:

1. Melt a bag of organic chocolate chips in the microwave or a double boiler. Add 1 tsp. (4 g) coconut oil, and stir in.
2. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil(s) to give your chocolate a delicious and healthy kick.
3. Spoon over your favorite nuts on wax paper, or pour into fun candy molds.
4. Let cool until hardened. Then enjoy!

Here are some of the best essential oils to couple with chocolate:

• Peppermint: There is nothing like that combination of rich, dark chocolate with the fresh crispness of peppermint. (Peppermint works best with dark chocolate.)
• Orange: Orange and chocolate are, of course, a match made in heaven. Tangerine is equally delicious.
• Lemon: A little lemony zing brings a bright and tangy flavor to chocolate.
• Lime: This works well with both dark and white chocolate. Try making some white chocolate truffles with a little lime oil, and then dip the truffles in dark chocolate—it’s a great combo!
• Bergamot: This oil is used to flavor earl grey tea and works equally well to flavor chocolate.
• Lemongrass: Lemongrass adds an unexpected and pleasant zing. It’s strong, though, so don’t add too much.
• Cardamom: This is a classic partner for chocolate.
• Ginger: A little ginger oil with a dash of cinnamon powder makes for a delicious and unique chocolate.

Chocolates make a great gift any time of year. And chocolates made with essential oil have a special gourmet flavor with added health benefits!