Though herbal wraps may seem to be a relatively new fad, some ancient civilizations practiced the treatment to improve health and beauty. According to herbalist Kristina Gustavson, Cleopatra's Egyptians used the process for not only mummifying but healing and grooming. In the past two decades, Europe and Japan have reintroduced herbal formulas for herbal wraps. Herbal wraps have since become a popular regimen for replenishing and rejuvenating the body.
Procedure
The therapist will eliminate dead skin cells from your body with a dry brush, otherwise known as exfoliation, then apply seaweed mud. Compression bandages--like those used for mummifying -- are then wrapped around the treated areas. The last layers include a plastic wrap and thermal blanket. The therapist may use a blanket between your body and the plastic to prevent adhesion. The treatment lasts about 30-40 minutes. Once the layers are removed, the therapist will wipe off remaining seaweed.
Benefits
According to Debra Gilbert, author of "Release, Relax, Revival: A Holistic Approach to Body Detoxification," the ocean's healing and purifying powers will help you feel restored and relieve stress, as the seaweed detoxifies your body. The minerals and vitamins in seaweed also improve your metabolism and circulation. Moreover, according to Dorit Baxter's New York Day Spa, seaweed wraps can remove inches from your body and reduce water weight while toning and tightening your skin.
Precautions
Before getting a seaweed body wrap, consult the therapist about possible allergic reactions. Moreover, according to "Massage Magazine," those who are pregnant or breast feeding should avoid treatment, as the substances in the seaweed mixture will be absorbed by the skin. Those with "HIV and other autoimmune diseases, active cancer, infectious/contagious skin conditions, low or high blood pressure, severe sunburn, epilepsy, heart disease, cardiovascular conditions or inflammation," also should also refrain from seaweed wraps, the magazine says.
Pricing
The cost for a seaweed body wrap generally ranges from $80 to $150 for 45 minutes and $100 to $200 for 60 minutes. According to Cost Helper on-line, "Rates are highest at spas that use exotic Dead Sea seaweed or algae and fine linens for the wrap." Finally, like most service facilities, a gratuity of 15 percent to 20 percent is customary for most spa services. Also keep in mind that geographical location affects costs.
Other Considerations
Be sure to arrive at the spa 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth transition into treatment. Leave jewelry or accessories at home. If you have a preference for a male or female therapist, make sure to request specificity when booking. Avoid eating for at least an hour before treatment and abstain from alcohol consumption the entire day of treatment. Finally, drink plenty of water before and after to restore lost fluids and to facilitate detoxification.
References
- "Total Health"; Herbal Wraps and Heated Stones Used for Thousands of Years; Kristina Gustavson; May 2001
- "Massage Magazine": The Seaweed Wrap; Laura Allen; June 2009
- Dorit Baxter: Seaweed Body Treatment
- "Massage Magazine"; Body Wraps Relax, Rejuvenate and Detoxifyp; Phyllis Hanlon; June 2009
- Cost Helper: Body Wraps Cost
- SpaFinder: Spa Etiquette
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