By Colleen Hague

“The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and a scented massage every day.”  - Hippocrates

The Decadent event of bathing goes back at least as far as 2800 B.C. in Egypt,  when people knew the Nile Valley  as the Cradle of Medicine. The custom of enjoying a bath has become somewhat of a misplaced art in North America, but in eastern society it is thought to be an critical ingredient in overall wellness. It is one of the most therapeutic experiences, treating us physically, mentally and spiritually. 

Essential oils used in a bath are exceptionally relaxing. They can relieve aching muscles, stimulate our immune system to fight colds and flu, support our adrenals, uplift our spirit and offer us sanctuary from a frantic day. 

The most effective way to utilize essential oils is to add them to a vegetable oil or combination of vegetable oils. This will leave the skin feeling soft and moisturized. I suggest 4 – 6 drops of essential oil per 10 ml of vegetable oil. Epsom Salt is a mineralogical kind of magnesium sulfate.  It’s great for relieving sore and aching muscles, detoxifying and relaxing, and can also be used in drawing poultices. Sea salt has excellent detoxifying and drawing properties, but can be dehydrating to the skin. For this reason, it should be used in combination with Epsom salt, clays or bicarbonate of soda, and should only be ¼ of the preparation. As well as calming and softening the skin, milk is also good for spreading the essential oils. Powdered milk can be used in bath bags along with herbs, oats or bran. For a tropical twist, try coconut milk – it is very calming to the skin, especially if the skin feels tight from too much sun.

Whatever blend you choose, be sure to soak for at least 20 – 25 minutes. This will make certain you receive the full therapeutic benefit when you buy essential oils.  Here are some essential oil recipes for the bath that I would advise:

For a soothing & comforting bath that includes lavender essential oil
ylang ylang, sandalwood, patchouli, marjoram, lavender, geranium, frankincense, chamomile, cedarwood.  
     
For an energizing & rejuvinating bath
 eucalyptus, grapefruit, lemon, lemongrass, peppermint, pine, rosemary

To soothe tense muscles
 frankincense, black spruce, rosemary, pine, black pepper, marjoram, lavender, ginger

For a sensual soul bath
bergamot, jasmine neroli, patchouli, rose, sandalwood, ylang-ylang