Adding herbs and other natural ingredients to your bath water can soothe your skin, detox your body and calm your mind. By creating your own herbal blends, you can customize your herbal bath to your specific needs, and buying loose herbs and other ingredients in bulk at a natural food store is often far cheaper than buying premade bath mixes.
Caution
Because herbs are natural, some people assume they are all gentle and mild. This is true for some herbs, but many herbs have powerful medicinal qualities and may cause adverse effects if used incorrectly. Certain herbs may also interact poorly with prescription medications. Always research individual herbs thoroughly before using them in a bath or taking them internally, and talk to your doctor or naturopath if you have any questions or concerns.
Basic Ingredients and Instructions
An herbal bath is usually made by filling a cloth sachet with herbs and other ingredients and attaching it to the faucet so the water runs through it as the tub is filled. You can find empty cloth sachets at some bath supply stores or craft stores, or you can make your own by sewing two squares of cheesecloth together and adding a drawstring. In addition to herbs, you can add a half cup of oatmeal (quick oats are best) to soften and moisturize your skin, or a tablespoon or two of sea salt or Epsom salts to draw out toxins in your body. You can also add a few cups of milk to your bath for smoother skin. Herbs are generally used in increments of 1 or 2 tbsp. each.
Herbs for Relaxation
Some herbs have aromatherapy benefits, and their scent promotes a state of peace and relaxation. For a calming bath at the end of a stressful day, try adding lavender, chamomile, lemon balm, elderberry flowers, hops or valerian to your herbal bath sachet.
Herbs for Better Skin
A bath is an effective way for your skin to absorb the soothing properties in many herbs. To moisturize dry skin, try chamomile and rose petals. Rose petals, as well as fennel, may also help smooth out wrinkles. Clean oily skin with a bath of lemongrass, yarrow or lovage. Treat itchy or irritated skin with sassafras, comfrey or calendula. Peppermint and nettles help tone loose or saggy skin.
Herbs for Rejuvenation
Add cayenne and ginger to your bath to help improve your circulation. Soak sore muscles in a bath with rosemary, thyme or cramp bark. Mints like basil, sage and spearmint can provide an energizing pick-me-up at the end of a long day.
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