Lavender Oil Bath Therapy for Mental and Physical Well-Being

Lavender Oil Bath Therapy for Mental and Physical Well-Being
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Therapeutic Waters

Taking a warm bath is in itself a beneficial treatment. The hot water opens pores, encouraging the release of toxins through the skin. Circulation is increased, bringing nutrient-rich blood to all body systems and enhancing the natural internal cleansing process. Sore and tense muscles naturally relax, bringing relief to minor pain. Even the mind is able to calm down; thoughts that were once running through your mind simply drift away with the rising steam.

A lavender oil bath is enhanced with the beneficial properties of lavender essential oil. Other natural additives such as epsom salt, sea salt, baking soda, milk, and honey can also be added to the therapeutic waters of a healing bath.

Lavender Essential Oil

What are the beneficial properties of lavender essential oil? Why is it so ideal for the body and mind? First of all, soaking in water infused with this oil is good for the skin. Lavender is both an antiseptic and antifungal herb. The highly concentrated extraction is great for most skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and even sunburns, as it inhibits bacterial growth and other harmful microbes. It promotes skin healing. It also has anti-inflammatory and calming properties, benefiting inflamed, irritated skin.

Lavender oil can be used to make a therapeutic bath for colds, the flu, and general recovery from illnesses. This is because it enhances the functioning of the immune system. It provides minor relief for aches, muscles tension, and arthritis by quelling inflammation, increasing

lavender flower

circulation, and calming the body.

This essential oil is perhaps most well-known as a tonic for psychological well-being. From stress to migraine headaches, lavender is an effective traditional remedy. While not a substitute for regular medical care, bathing in lavender waters can bring relief for:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Nervousness
  • Stress
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness

Bath Recipes

For a renewing bath, ideal for recovering from physical illness and mental fatigue, add to running bath water:

  • One cup of epsom salts
  • One-half cup of baking soda
  • Ten drops of lavender essential oil

For a nurturing skin bath:

  • One cup milk powder (or milk)
  • One-fourth cup honey
  • One-half cup sea salt
  • Ten drops of lavender oil

For chronic dry skin conditions such as eczema:

  • One tablespoon jojoba or avocado oil
  • One-half cup oat flour
  • Ten drops lavender

When taking a lavender oil bath, soak for twenty minutes. Be sure to mix the contents so they are well-dispersed in the water. After bathing rest for another twenty minutes, especially after using epsom salts, which encourage a rapid release of toxins. Drink juice, water, or a cup of relaxing herbal tea to re-hydrate.

Take one of these therapeutic baths when feeling the need for regeneration, when stress and tension are overwhelming, or even for minor pain relief. It is not only effective therapy, but it is enjoyable.

References

“Health Benefits of Lavender Essential Oils.” (Organic Facts) https://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/natural-essential-oils/health-benefits-of-lavender-essential-oil.html

Balch, Phyllis, CNC. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition.” (The Penguin Group, 2006).

Photo Credit

photo by: Applefar113 (CC/flickr) https://www.flickr.com/photos/apple113/3260731519/in/photostream/

photo by: Limbo Poet (CC/flickr) https://www.flickr.com/photos/44639455@N00/747296177/

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