Baths and washes

Baths and washes are two similar applications that topically treat the body. Baths are external treatments for skin conditions that cover large areas of the body, whereas washes are for smaller areas of the body.

Baths

The hot water of baths is soothing and great for adults and children. The aromatic volatile oils become airborne, thus there is also the benefit of inhaling them as the essential oils vaporise. Also, as the body is immersed a short time, the water softens the skin and allows for greater penetration.

Baths can be relaxing or stimulating, heating or cooling, depending on the water temperature and the herbs used. Generally hot baths are relaxing and warming, used to relieve muscle spasm, expand blood vessels, and promote circulation.

Cold or tepid baths are stimulating, invigorating and used to counter heat and inflammation such as is the present in itchy, inflamed skin conditions. Therapeutic baths can include adding infusions or decoctions, essential oils, raw or fresh herbs, or powdered herbs.

Restorative Thymus vulgaris (Thyme) bath

A bath with restorative and invigorating properties, as well as being antiseptic, and because the aromas are vaporised into the air from the hot water, helps respiratory infections.

Method

Make an infusion, using 30g dried herb in 600mls freshly boiled water, steep for a half hour, strain and add to the bath, and take a 15-20 minute bath.

Lavandula officinalis (Lavender) bath

This bath is relaxing and relieves sunburn sting and soothes genital herpes.

Method

Add 5-10 drops of essential oil into a carrier oil, such as cold pressed olive oil, almond oil, or jojoba for example, add to the bath before getting in, and soak for 15-20 minutes.

Washes

Use washes for skin conditions that are in one place, such as the face or eyes. Use a concentrated infusion or decoction as per baths, but avoid using essential oils. Eyewashes are great for conjunctivitis, whether from allergy or infection, but you must use cooled, boiled water, and wash the eyebath after each use. To clean, wash with warm water, then rinse well with boiling water, and use a different eyebath for each eye to avoid cross contamination. If your eyewash stings, add a small pinch of salt to the water.

Kind regards,

                Penelope Espinoza Hallett, Naturopath

                BHsc (C.M.) AdvDip. Nat/N.D, Dip. Aroma, Dip. C.H., Cert. R.M., Cert. R.M., Cert. SBM, mNHAA