ANISEED

Aromatic bathing

      ONE OF THE SIMPLEST and most pleasant ways to use essential oils is in the bathtub, where the oils enhance the relaxing effect of a warm slow bath, or the stimulating effect of a brisk hot bath or cold dip. The therapeutic effects of bathing have been recognized for centuries. The sophistication of many of the Ancient Roman spa bath houses can still be seen, with their hot and cold compartments, steam rooms, and aromatic massage quarters. Very hot baths stimulate perspiration, which is valuable in cases of infectious illness and for encouraging elimination of wastes and detoxification. However, they can also be draining and, in the long run, can cause the skin to lose its elasticity. A medium-hot or warm bath has a soothing and relaxing effect on both the mind and body, while cool or cold water has a more invigorating and stimulating effect. Lukewarm baths are good for lowering the temperature in cases of fever.

      Pure essences

      This is the easiest and most popular way of using essential oils for bathing. Simply add from 5 to 10 drops of your chosen essential oil (or a blend of oils) to the bathtub when it is full, and relax in the aromatic vapors. Use lavender oil for promoting relaxation, rosemary as an invigorating tonic, or marjoram for soothing tired muscles.

      Bath bags

      Gather a selection of fresh herbs or aromatic flowers together, such as lavender sprigs, rose petals, lemon balm leaves, and chamomile flowers, and tie them loosely in a muslin bag with a piece of string or ribbon. Choose specific herbs both for their therapeutic properties and for their scent. If you wish, add a few drops of a chosen essential oil to the bundle to enhance the fragrance. Then tie the bag to the faucets and let it hang in the stream of hot water while the bathtub is filling.

      Marjoram relieves aching muscles.

      WARNING

      Always check with specific safety data before using a new oil in the bathtub, to avoid possible irritation. Details are given for each oil in the information here. Increase the dilution during pregnancy and for babies or infants to at least half the recommended amount. For babies, avoid the possibly toxic or irritant oils altogether.

      Rosemary invigorates.

      Bath salts

      Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate) or Dead Sea salts are healing substances in themselves, and make an excellent medium for combining with essential oils. Salt contains precious minerals, has an alkalizing effect on the body, promotes the elimination of acidic wastes from the muscles and joints, and induces copious perspiration—good for infectious illness, rheumatism, arthritis, and for promoting relaxation. Dissolve one or two handfuls of Epsom salt in boiling water, add a few drops of essential oil, and pour into the bathtub. Alternatively, simply add 5 drops of essential oil to every handful of Epsom salt or Dead Sea salts, pour directly into the bathtub and agitate the water before getting in.

      Moisturizing bath oils

      A few drops of an essential oil can also be mixed in a teaspoonful of vegetable oil, such as sweet almond oil, before being added to the bathtub. This helps to moisturize the skin and ensures an even distribution of the essential oil, which is especially important in the case of babies and young children.

      To make a larger quantity, mix 200 drops of an essential oil (or blend) with 3½fl oz/100ml jojoba oil or another base or carrier oil (see here) containing five percent wheat germ oil and store in a tinted glass bottle. Add a teaspoonful of this mixture to the bath water when required.

      Foot and hand baths

      Valuable for warding off chills, for easing arthritic or rheumatic pain, and for the treatment of specific foot complaints, a hot aromatic foot bath can also be very effective for relieving stress and over-exhaustion (use lavender and sweet marjoram) and is a quick aid to combating excessive perspiration (use tea tree and rosemary). Simply sprinkle 5 or 6 drops of essential oil into a bowl or basin of warm or hot water and soak feet or hands for about ten minutes. Alternatively, dilute the essential oils in a teaspoonful of cider vinegar, honey, or a moisturizing vegetable oil beforehand.

      Two or three drops of soothing oil can be used in a baby’s bedtime bath and this may lead to a more restful night for everyone.

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