There are basically three methods of preparing Herbal Baths.
For an Infusion: Pour 1 quart of boiling water over ¼ cup of herbs, and steep for 30 minutes. Strain the herbal water, then add it to your bathwater.
For a Decoction: Combine 1 part of your herb mixture into 4 parts water, and boil it together for 30 minutes. Strain out the herbs, then add the strained liquid to your bathwater. (The amount you use will depend upon how fragrant and herbally effective bath that you require–see below for an herbal use guide).
For an Herbal Bath Bag—Place several tablespoons of herbs in a cloth bag (you can use any cloth you desire–suggestions are muslin, cheesecloth, or terrytowel. Instructions on how to make herbal bath bags are contained in the ‘Category’ section of betweenclosefriends.com). Hang your Herbal Bath Bag from the tub faucet, allowing the water to run over and through it. After you have run your bath and imparted the fragrance and properties of the herbs selected into your bath, you can then use your Herbal Bath Bag as a scrubber, rubbing it over your skin for additional enjoyment. These herb bags can also be used again, after allowing them to thoroughly dry between uses. (If you store it while still damp, it may go moldy or mildew)
Herbal Properties Guide
Herbs for a relaxing Bath: Chamomile, comfrey, lavender, lemon verbena, sassafras, thyme, and also vanilla
Herbs for a stimulating bath: Bay, elder, hops, jasmine, lemon balm, marjoram, patchouli, peppermint, rosemary, savory, yarrow
Herbs for a soothing bath: Aloe Vera, calendula, catnip, comfrey, elder, hyssop, rose, sage, sassafras, tansy, yarrow
Herbs benefiting dry skin: Aloe Vera, caraway, chamomile, comfrey, elder, orange petals, parsley, rose, yarrow, oatmeal, and almond, castor, olive, or peanut oil
Herbs benefiting oily skin: Lavender, lemongrass, tangerine peel, vinegar, witch hazel, and apricot, citronella, or soybean oil
Herbs benefiting normal to dry skin: Corn, cottonseed, sesame or sunflower oil
(Because allergic reactions can occur with any herbal or scent ingredient, any bath preparation should be first tested on a small area of skin before being used in your bath. This simple precaution will enable you to derive the most possible pleasure from your fragrant and healthful bathing experiences.
Tags: Christmas gift giving ideas, herbal baths, herbs for a relaxing bath, herbs for a soothing bath, herbs for a stimulating bath, herbs for all skin types, herbs for dry skin, herbs for normal skin, herbs for oily skin, herbs that benefit dry skin, herbs that benefit oily skin, home made gifts, home made gifts from the garden, homemade Christmas gifts, how to make a decoction, how to make a herbal bath bag, how to make a soothing bath, how to make an infusion, relaxing herbs, soothing herbs, stimulating herbs