Herbal heating pads are typically small cloth pillows that are filled with a material that holds heat, such as flax seed, rice or corn. Herbs for aromatherapy are added before the heating pad is sewn closed. These pads can then be heated in the microwave and used for heat therapy to treat sore muscles, chest congestion,swollen glands, or aches and pains.
Lavender
If you are using your heat pack to relieve stress-related aches and pains, lavender is an excellent herb to add to it. Lavender's stress-relieving properties will help you to melt away pain and tension, when combined with the warm, moist heat from your heating pack. Apply your pack to tense muscles in your neck and upper and lower back.
Chamomile
Chamomile is also used in heat packs for its relaxing qualities. The scent can help to relieve stress, as well as insomnia. While frequently consumed as a tea or extract, the herb can also be used in herbal heating packs for aromatherapy. If you struggle with seasonal allergies or hay fever, you may want to avoid using chamomile, as it can trigger an allergic reaction.
Spearmint or Peppermint
Members of the mentha family, such as spearmint and peppermint, can be extremely useful in a heating pack. When you use these herbs for aromatherapy, they can help relieve migraines and reduce congestion. Try these if you suffer from allergies, a cold or migraine headaches. If you're experiencing a migraine, you might also try placing your heating pack in the freezer instead of the microwave. The cooling treatment may help to relieve pain.
Eucalyptus
If you're suffering from allergies or chest congestion. you might consider adding eucalyptus leaf or oil to your herbal heating pack. This herb is excellent for relieving respiratory problems such as nasal congestion and chest congestion.
References
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing, James F. Balch MD
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lavender
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Eucalyptus
- University of Vermont: Mentha
