The benefits of herbal baths

Soaking in the bath is always a delight, and herbal baths give you the opportunity to enjoy your bath whilst also bringing a whole host of other benefits depending on which herbs you choose.

Here, we look at the benefits of herbal baths and share which herbs can alleviate aches and pains, eliminate congestion, and send you to sleep.

Why are baths so relaxing?

Sinking into a hot bath after a long day is absolute bliss, and it actually has both physical and mental benefits - so you don’t need to feel guilty about indulging in a soak every now and then. Warm water helps to relieve muscle tension, making baths great for those suffering with stiff muscles - regardless of whether this is due to time at the gym or a build-up of stress throughout the day. Baths can also help to reduce pain and inflammation which makes them ideal for anyone suffering with joint problems, and the steam from the bath works as a decongestant for those suffering with a cold or the flu.

Having a bath just before you go to bed is beneficial as the warm water will ease your body and make you feel sleepy. Plus, baths have been found to increase endorphins and relieve anxiety, which means that your bath will put you in a good mood and will help you to wash your stress and anxiety away.

Although you might typically have your bath without any products, or perhaps you like to opt for some bubble bath, there is a type of bath that can provide even more health benefits than simply soaking in hot water.

What is a herbal bath?

A herbal bath is a bath that has been infused with herbs that boast great benefits. Although herbal baths are not a new concept, they have only recently started to grow in popularity thanks to people trying to recreate a soothing spa experience in their own home. Herbal baths enable you to choose herbs with properties that best suit what you need, whether that’s helping to ease aching muscles or assisting you in clearing your mind, and you can choose just one herb or create a personalised combination that will leave you feeling great both inside and out.

What herbs can be used in a herbal bath?

There are lots of different herbs that can be beneficial when making a herbal bath, and you should choose the options that best suit your needs at the time. Some popular herbs that can be used in a herbal bath include:

1. Basil - An uplifting herb that will make you feel ready for the day ahead. This can also be added to orange zest for an extra boost.
2. Chamomile - Known for its relaxing properties, chamomile will banish stress, help to combat anxiety, and make you sleepy.
3. Lavender - The top herb choice for those with insomnia, lavender is ideal for relaxing you before bed by clearing your mind.
4. Eucalyptus - If you’re suffering from a cold, flu, or painful sinuses, eucalyptus works as a decongestant and will help you to breathe comfortably.
5. Sage - Ideal for gym bunnies, sage will help to relax your muscles and eliminate tension after a workout.
6. Fennel - A great option for those who suffer with acne or issues linked to oily skin, fennel will help to ease these issues and has a lovely sweet scent.
7. Rosemary - Rosemary can both ease aches and pains and help to relieve congestion, making it ideal for those who have a cold.
8. Calendula - Calendula is great for treating wounds or soothing dry, irritable skin, and can help with nappy rash in infants too.

How to draw a herbal bath

There are a couple of different ways to draw a herbal bath, so you can simply choose the one that best suits you. The easiest method is to add the herbs directly into your bathwater. However, some people don’t like this as they don’t like the feeling of herbs sticking to their skin. If this sounds like you, you can put your chosen herbs into a small bag - to create a teabag - and add this to your bath instead. Alternatively, you can make herbal tea, drain out the herbs, and add the tea to your bath - giving it a good swirl to make sure all of the goodness has been mixed in.

Herbal baths and face masks

While you’re soaking in your herbal bath, you might like to use the time wisely by using other products that are great for your skin. For example, putting on a face mask in the bath gives it time to work its magic and you’ll leave the water feeling great with a fresh complexion to match. If you have oily skin that’s prone to blemishes, look no further than our Facial Smoothie Superfood Mask. packed full of natural ingredients that have been chosen for their nourishing abilities, this mask will draw out impurities without drying out your skin. Alternatively, opt for our Glow Supreme 2-in-1 Exfoliator Mask Duo. Created to cleanse, tone, and exfoliate, pairing this mask with a herbal bath will make you feel like you’ve just stepped out of a spa and is suitable for all skin types.

Now you know the benefits of herbal baths, have fun creating your own and enjoy some peace and relaxation.