Soaking in an herbal bath for at least twenty minutes is one of the unsurpassed ways to wind down after a demanding day. The heat of the water helps release tension, and adding herbs to the bath benefits the body, mind, and spirit. Herbs have therapeutic properties that can soothe your skin and loosen up muscles and joints while stimulating the circulation.

An herbal bath is also a peaceful and comforting way to administer remedies. Considered simply a luxury, there are a lot of beneficial values to an herbal bath. Your skin will absorb small quantities of the decoction. Once out of the bath, try to lay down as the heating and cooling of your temperature signals your body that it is time for have a rest and you will have the benefit of a curative sleep.

Herbs to keep on hand are Sage is calming and an astringent – great for people with oily skin and acne. Rosemary is soothing, an astringent and clarifying. Peppermint is revitalizing and clarifying. Chamomile is very relaxing and calming and is just right for dry or irritated skin. Green Tea is Energizing, an antioxidant and very healing for any skin type. There is also lavender, rose petals and calendula.

Like any herbal remedy, herbal baths can be created to improve breathing, de-stress, help relieve muscle aches and pains, kindle healing of tissues and aid to heal wounds and infection. Try some of the following recipes next time you are wound up tighter than a knot, or are in need of herbal healing.

Deodorizing Bath

The herbs in this recipe contain ingredients that will refresh your body. It is a fantastic herbal mixture to have after a long day of working outside.
1/4 cup each of fresh or 2 tablespoons dried thyme, lavender buds, rosemary
1 muslin bath bag or new pair of knee high nylons
1 quart boiling water
Add the herbs to the bag/nylon and close tightly. Add the bag to the water and simmer, covered for approximately fifteen minutes. Take out the infusion from the heat and chill. You can then add the infusion to your bath.

Fragrant Bath

1/4 cup fresh or 2 tablespoons dried sweet marjoram, lavender buds, peppermint
1 muslin bath bag new pair of knee high nylons
1 quart boiling water
Add the herbs to the muslin bag/nylon and close tightly. Add the bag to the water and simmer, covered for approximately fifteen minutes. Take out the infusion from the heat and chill. You can then add the infusion to your bath.

Relaxation Bath

1/2 cup fresh or 1/4 cup dried lemon balm/chamomile blossoms/ marjoram leaves/lavender leaves/ rose petals/chamomile flowers
2 cups boiling water
Infusion of 1/4 cup each of sweet marjoram leaves, lavender leaves and flowers, dried or fresh rose petals, and chamomile flowers. When using fresh rose petals do not include them in the infusion and add them to bath separately.
Add the herbs to the boiling water. Cover and infuse for 20 minutes. Strain and add to your bathwater.

Please always do your research and consult with your physician, naturopath, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested on this page. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or naturopath can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or to diagnose your particular medical issue.