The Aromatic Bath by.Fernanda Santiago
"The
way to health is to have an aromatic bath and scented massage every day." - Hippocrates
For centuries, people always used therapeutic baths to help relieve their ailments or just for general health and well being.
Hippocrates, known as the Father of Medicine, learned about the healing properties of aromatic baths from the ancient Egyptians. He subsequently developed teachings about using water as a form of treatment, which he called hydrotherapy. Cleopatra was famous for her beautiful skin. Her secret was that she soaked in baths of fresh milk and herbs.
Bathing with essential oils is a harmonious synergistic combination. The soothing and relaxing properties of warm water compliment the effects of therapeutic essential oils. Aromatic baths can provide relief from stress and anxiety, assist with muscle pains, or offer a sensual introduction to a romantic evening with your partner.
Bathing to me is one of the most important rituals I will never do without. My bathroom is my sanctuary. The warm water alone is pleasant, but with the added benefits and aromas of the essential oils and mineral salts...it doesn’t get any better then that!
Bathing is a time to relax and let go, while you allow the oils to work with you both physically and mentally. A relaxing way to calm down tired bodies and relieve stress. It allows us a few moments to slow down, think, and meditate which can create wonders for the body and mind. Bathing is one of the best ways to receive the many benefits of the essential oils physically (through your skin) and emotionally (by inhaling the aromas).
The vapors rising from the hot water enters your olfactory system and lungs; while the warm water opens your pores allowing oils to enter your circulatory system. Using essential oils in the bath is as simple as adding 10 drops just before you enter the tub!
So, why take an Aromatic Bath?
Aromatherapy baths are..
Relaxing for your entire body. You can achieve better concentration and think more clearly whenever you permit yourself to unwind and relax. Combining a warm bath with aromatherapy creates the ideal environment for your body to release stress and can help induce restful sleep. Several essential oils have nervine (relaxes the nerves), andanxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), properties. Your aromatic bath will make you feel more rejuvenated and assist with coping with life’s demands.
Pain relieving - There are many essential oils that relieve pain and inflammation from muscles and joints. Some essential oils increase blood circulation, have anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, and warming properties. Most people refrain from physical activity when there in pain. Essential oils can help with general sports injuries and soreness from hard workouts, or to relieve arthritis and chronic pain. What a better way to absorb these oils then with a warm aromatherapy bath?
Detoxifying -Detoxification of your body through bathing is an ancient remedy that anyone can perform in the comfort of their own home. Your skin is known as the largest organ in your body and toxins are excreted through sweating. An aromatherapy bath will assist your body in eliminating toxins, as well as absorbing the minerals and nutrients that are in the water. According to author Debra Gilbert in her book, "Release, Relax, Revival: A Holistic Approach to Body Detoxification," detox baths combining Epsom salts and aromatherapy oils cause you to perspire, helping to eliminate toxins from the body. Essential oils can help cleanse and purify the body, stimulate Lymphatic drainage and circulation, reduce the appearance of cellulite, and act as a toner and diuretic.
Stimulate Cell Renewal- Improving the appearance of skin Respiratory -The steam from hot baths and aromatherapy may help open up your airways and facilitate breathing. Essential oils that help with the respiratory passage and open the sinuses include Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Frankincense, and Cypress.
So take out time to relax and unwind, while your body absorbs the healing power of therapeutic oils, in your own Aromatic Bath.
Below are some recipes and examples of blends you might want to try:
Simple Therapeutic Bath Salt Recipe
16 ounces all-natural Epsom
Salt
15-30 drops of essential oil
In a mixing bowl, add drops of the essential oil to the bath
salt and mix well. Store in a glass jar. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the scented
salts to a bath for a soothing, luxurious experience! Close the door and
dissolve salts into water right before getting in. Soak for 20 minutes.
Below are examples of essential oil blends you can add to your
bath:
For a Refreshing bath that relaxes tension-
Blend
10 drops Lavender essential oils & 5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil
Or
5
drops Eucalyptus oil and 5 drops Lavender Essential Oil
For an Uplifting Bath that cleanses and detoxifies:
5
drops Lime Essential Oil
5
drops Rosemary Essential Oil
5
drops Lavender Essential Oil
Or
Detox synergy blend
For a Relaxing Sensual Bath
5
drops Ylang Ylang
4
drops Mandarin
5
drops Lavender
Or
Romance Synergy Blend
For female balance
5
drops Clary Sage
5
drops Geranium
3
drops Bergamot
2
drops Lavender
Or
Vixen Synergy Blend
Synergy
Blends make great easy bath additives!
More
Synergy Blends available:
Cloud
9, Romance, Refresh, Serene Indulgence, Exquisite, Exotic Spices.
Coming
soon…Vixen, Shield, Happy, Ignite, Reviver
