Hippacrates, the father of western medicine, prescribed baths for patients suffering from certain muscle and joint diseases. Because of its calming effects, bathing was one of the early treatments for mental disturbances. Today, hydrotherapy still is used in the treatment of arthritis and certain muscle problems. Water alone heals and soothes, but add herbs to the bath and the benefits increase.
Types of Herb Baths
To relieve stiff muscles and achy joints try a combination of 1 once each of sage, strawberry leaves, mugwort; or 1 ounce each of agrimony, chamomile and mugwort wrapped in cheesecloth and steeped into your bath water. If stronger relief is needed make an infusion of burdock root, mugwort, comfrey leaf and sage in 1 quart of water.
For a refreshing bath make an infusion of 6-8 ounces of dried blackberry leaves and add it to the water. your skin will be brighter and you will feel invigorated.
For a tonic bath combine equal parts of comfrey, alfalfa, parsley, and orange peel ; or three parts jasmine flowers to one part orange blossoms; or equal parts of rose petals, orange blossoms, and lavender; or equal parts comfrey, nettle, dandelion, and daisy. Take a bath, in any of these amazing blends, for several days in a row.
To aid circulation prepare a decoction of equal parts of marigold, nettle, and bladder wrack added to the bathwater. An oriental classic is to add 2 pounds of grated ginger to 1 gallon of water, heat for 10 minutes and add it to the bathwater. this treatment is said to alleviate the painful symptoms of arthritis, bursitis and gout.
To relieve tension add a decoction made form 1 pound of valerian leaves to the bathwater. Another internal tension relief decoction can be made from equal parts vervain (whole plant), linden, comfrey, root and chamomile flowers. Equal parts hops and queen of the meadow steeped together and used as an after bath rinse is said to be clearing after the bath.
A classic beauty bath involves mixing together a handful each of dried lavender flowers, dried rosemary leaves, dried mint, chopped comfrey roots, and thyme. Make an infusion in a quart of water then add it to the bath. Rest in it for 15 minutes while you think of positive affirmations for beauty, vitality and virtue and you will be amazed at the results.
Types of Herb Baths, Hydrotherapy: healing with herbs, Part 15
Written by Cathleen Carr, who write about Green Living, Herbs, Food, Alternative Medicine Therapies,and Elder Care.
Comments
I have tried some of your suggestions -- it sure makes for a relaxing bath.
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