Sunday, November 27, 2011

Herbal Stress Relief Bath with Lavender and Oatmeal


Photo credit: melodi2 from morguefile.com
Instead of soaking in a tub full of bubbles that can irritate the skin, try a natural herbal stress relief bath. Trade in the synthetic fragrances and preservatives for skin nourishing ingredients with a lavender and oatmeal soak. Lavender essential oil will normalize the skin, reduce inflammation and help to destroy bacteria on the skin. It also has a calming effect on the mind, easing tension and anxiety. Oatmeal will sooth and soften dry skin. And of course the hot water is relaxing for tired, aching muscles.

To make an herbal stress relief bath with oatmeal and lavender add one to two cups of dried oats to a muslin pouch. Add this to bath water while the tub is filling with hot water to let the emollient compounds and nutrients of the oats to infuse into the water. Meanwhile, add eight drops of lavender essential oil to a cup of water. You can also use a cup of milk as a carrier for the essential oils for a more skin-softening effect. Add the lavender to bath water right before getting in.

Soak in this herbal bath for twenty minutes to relieve stress naturally while also giving your skin a nourishing botanical treatment. This is an excellent natural alternative to synthetic bubble bath products which contain chemical ingredients that are not good for your skin or the environment. Using natural bath additives such as essential oils and herbs is a great way to reduce your exposure to chemicals while also pampering. Just make sure to make this herbal bath a once a week treat to avoid heavy water usage!