Herbal Bath Therapy

We don't just bathe to be clean. We bathe because it's an enjoyable experience. Even 'shower' people can't resist the allure of the occasional bath to relax and rejuvenate. Aside from cleaning our bodies, bathing has always been used as a remedy to soothe the soul as well as the body.

The 19th century Bavarian Monk, Sebastian Kneipp, took note of the curative power of bathing. He is considered the father of hydrotherapy which is the use of water to maintain and restore health. Hydrotherapy treatments not only include baths, but saunas, steam baths, and sitz baths among other things.The formulas he crated still constitute the basis for Kneipp products.

Hydrotherapy has a physiological basis. Cold water causes blood vessels to constrict; whereas, hot water is is relaxing and causes blood vessels to dilate. Alternating between hot and cold is said to reduce inflammation, stimulate circulation, and improve elimination.

Bath salts probably got their start from people bathing in natural mineral springs and noticing beneficial effects such as softer skin and relief from muscle pain.

Although there are hot springs on every continent on the planet, you don't need to visit them in order to enjoy your own soothing mineral bath. Simple Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) reduce swelling and help detoxify the skin. Naturals sea salts add trace minerals and help soften the skin. Many bath salts are available with essential oils that add aromatherapy to their benefits.

Although commercial bath bombs (also known as bath fizzies) are mass produced by machine, natural bath bombs are usually hand made using specialty molds. They are made from a combination of essential oils for aroma, citric acid and baking soda, which creates the fizzing effect that they're known for. Kids of all ages enjoy watching the bath bombs swirl around in the water.

For health giving effects of natural herbs, try buying or making some of your own bath teas. Just use a 6-inch square of cheese cloth or unbleached muslin, place a small handful of your favorite dried herbs along with a bit of Epsom salts in the middle, pull up the corners and tie it so that the herbs stay inside and drop the 'bath tea bag' into your hot bathwater.

You can add your favorite essential oils for added fragrance. Try herbs like lavender or chamomile for an extra soothing effect. Just remember to go organic whenever possible. No point in bathing in toxins.

Whether you prefer bath bombs, bath oils, or herbal teas, you can't make a bad choice. Mineral baths are good for soaking tired muscles. Aromatherapy does wonders to rejuvenate. If you have a skin condition like psoriasis, eczema, or even just sunburn, there's a botanical that can help get you back on track.