Herbal Body Cleansing Baths

The use of herbs as alternative medicine is becoming more accepted, and herbal baths are a great way to unwind and let go of everyday stress and anxiety. Herbal baths can be purchased in a variety of mixtures, or they be created at home for a more customized product.

Ingredients

• Regardless of the type, herbal baths have similar ingredients. An herbal bath recipe consists of sea salt, milk or an oatmeal base. The remaining ingredients are dependent on the desired result, but they generally include a mixture of herbs and flowers such as lavender, chamomile, rose and lemon balm. Herbal tea bags are often used as well by simply placing them in the bath as it fills.

Base Effects

• Oatmeal is a popular choice because it soothes and relieves dry, itchy skin. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends placing a cup of oatmeal in the bath to relieve psoriasis. Sea salt is a favorite because it detoxifies the body, works as an inflammatory, and softens and exfoliates the skin. A milk bath is said to soften the body by removing dead skin cells. Both buttermilk and powdered milk are commonly used.

Herbs and Additions

• The most popular herbs and flowers that are used to create an herbal bath are lavender, chamomile, rose and lemon balm. Lavender is purported to relieve stress and anxiety when inhaled, although the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports mixed results. Chamomile is known for its sedative effects. The National Library of Medicine states that it shows promising results in its use for healing topical wounds as well. Rose water is thought to calm the nerves, but it most commonly used for its wonderful scent. Like lavender and chamomile, lemon balm reduces stress and anxiety. It is also said to help with insomnia and help heal sores from herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Preparation

• Herbal baths are prepared by mixing the dry ingredients. They can be stored in a glass jar and typically have a shelf life of one year. A few tablespoons of the mixture is added to the bath while the water is running. The ingredients can also be placed in a muslin bag and hung over the faucet head while the tub fills.

Warning

• Remain in the herbal bath for no more than 30 minutes. Consult your physician before using herbs because some herbs do not interact well with other herbs or medication. Talk with your doctor before using if you are pregnant or nursing.