Taking a mineral bath can be very relaxing and revitalizing to the skin. Bathing in hot water not only increases your body temperature, it also increases metabolism and white blood cell count, and helps detoxification and aids sleep. The addition of mineral salts and trace elements will soften the water, draw out toxins and revitalize the skin by replacing minerals lost through detoxification. These minerals are vital as they can soothe painful joints and muscles (calcium and magnesium); calm nerve pain, soothe and tighten skin, and improve circulation in cases of arthritis (magnesium); reduce stress and relieve anxiety by lowering blood pressure (magnesium and potassium); improve muscle contraction and the proper functioning of nerve impulses (sodium and sodium chloride); soothes painful muscles (sodium chloride).
Hot baths (100-104° F), while highly therapeutic, are not for everyone and should be employed by individuals with abnormal blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, seizure disorder. They are also not for children, pregnant women, elderly or obese patients and supervision is recommended.
Kugane Hot Springs Bath by 紫煙
The addition of essential oils can increase the pleasure and therapeutic benefit of a hot bath. Adding the essential oils to hot water will simply cause the volatile oils to evaporate quickly. While they are not fatty oils, such as olive or grapseed oil, essential oils are somewhat oily and are not diluted by the water. They are best dispersed by adding four to six drops of essential oil to a teaspoon of milk, cream or honey and adding them into the bath water when the tub is full.
Aromatic essential oils such as Sandalwood, Vetiver, Patchouli or Lavender can help to encourage relaxation, aid sleep, and provide support for the adrenal glands. Floral aromas including Geranium, Ylang Ylang and Rose invoke a heady feeling of euphoria and comfort. Warming oils of Ginger, Black Pepper and Juniper can help to improve circulation and provide relief in cases of arthritis.
You can make your own Sea Salt bath by adding 25 drops of your favorite essential oils to two teaspoons of grapeseed oil. Be sure to mix them well. Then combine one cup each baking soda and Dead Sea salts and the essential oil blend and mix thoroughly. Store in a 16 ounce airtight jar. This makes enough for four mineral baths (1/2 cup each).
Sleep Easy Blend
9 drops Lavender essential oil 9 drops Roman Chamomile essential oil 7 drops Sweet Marjoram essential oil 2 tsp. (10 ml) Grapseed oil
1 cup (8 oz) Baking Soda 1 cup (8 oz) Dead Sea Salts
Blend the essential oils with the grapeseed oil. In a large non-reactive bowl combine the baking soda and Dead Sea salts. Add the essential oil blend and mix very well. Store in a 16 ounce airtight jar or container.
Fill the bath tub with hot water. Add 1/2 cup of the prepared salts and swish around the tub to dissolve. Slip into the tub and enjoy.
Lora Cantele
Co-author of The Complete Aromatherapy & Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness
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