Make bath tea yourself: simple recipes that pamper body and mind!
The winter continues. Fog, snow and low temperatures not only affect our mood, but also put a strain on our body. A relaxing bath in warmth and tranquility is the best you can do for yourself right now. Bathing is actually an ancient therapeutic practice called balneotherapy. The Romans recognized the importance of water therapy and even made public bathhouses available for the citizens. Vapors, baths and cold water baths are used by Ayurvedic healers, depending on the constitution and the prevailing Dosha, to improve health and promote metabolism and circulation. Almost all ancient cultures prescribe therapeutic bathing rituals with herbs and oils to promote general wellbeing and soothe the skin, the largest organ in our body. This type of bath product seems to be back in vogue at the moment, but in the form of bath tea. In the following you will find out what bath tea is and how you can make bath tea bags yourself.
What is bath tea?
Drinking tea can have many health benefits, but tea can also be absorbed topically through the skin and is therefore often referred to as bath tea. The pouched bath tea is so great because you don’t have to worry about cleaning up after your bath. Bubble baths, bath bombs, and even herbal bath salts often leave residues that need to be cleaned up after your bath. With a bath tea bag you can enjoy the relaxing bathing experience and simply remove it as soon as you drain the water. Voila!
By using certain herbs, you can enrich your bath water with powerful active ingredients. An herbal bath can increase blood flow and relax muscles, thereby relieving muscle tension and pain. Warm steam can help with nasal congestion and relieve headaches as well. A warm bath has even been shown to lower blood pressure, which can improve your mood and reduce stress. Sleep disorders? A full bath before bed works wonders.
Herbal baths are also suitable for children. Babies don’t need a soapy bath every day. On some days, a simple, relaxing herbal bath and massage is enough. Gentle organic bath herbs like real chamomile and marigold can help soothe skin and relax more irritable babies and toddlers.
Which herbs are best for a bath tea? You can choose from a variety of herbs to customize your herbal bath experience based on your specific needs or preferences. Epsom salts, sea salt, and essential oils are also nice additions. Here are some simple bath tea ideas:
- Lavender and rose petals provide relaxation and fill the air with a beautiful floral aroma.
- Peppermint and rosemary have a refreshing effect and help with tiredness, stress and exhaustion.
- Lavender, real chamomile and peppermint reduce stress and relax body and mind.
- Dried marigold petals and chamomile flowers soothe and soften the skin. They’re great for kids, especially if they have irritated skin, insect bites, or diaper rash.
- Rose petals, lavender blossoms, chamomile blossoms and marigold petals form a relaxing and nourishing aromatic herbal mixture that also supports the lymphatic system.
- Linden blossom and lemongrass have a mood-enhancing effect.
- Eucalyptus, peppermint and rosemary are refreshing and effective against muscle and joint pain.
- Chamomile, lemon balm and lavender ensure a good night’s sleep.
The recipe for bath tea doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple mix of dried lavender buds and rose petals that you’ve collected and dried in your summer garden also makes a great bath tea. You can also buy ready-made dried herbs. Make sure you choose organic products because you don’t need pesticides or other nasty additives in your bathtub. It is best to use dried herbs within two to four years. If they lose their scent, it is a sign that it is time to throw them away.
Make bath tea bags yourself
Bath tea bags are easy to make and store, so you’ll always have one on hand when you want a heavenly bath.
First of all, you will need some XL size paper tea filters. These are particularly useful because they can be thrown into the compost after use. You can also use a muslin bag, cheesecloth, or even a clean sock that can be reused.
Then put together your herbal mix. Adjust the amounts accordingly. For a full bath you need a bath tea bag with 100 grams. If desired, add a few drops of your favorite scented oil and a little Epsom salt. Put all the ingredients in a bowl and use a spoon to pour the herbs into the tea bags. Seal the tea bags by folding the end down 4-5 times and closing with a staple.
Hang the bag on the faucet and run hot water through the bag OR put the bath tea bag in the empty tub and fill it halfway with very hot water. Then turn the tap on cold and keep filling until the water has reached a comfortable temperature. Squeeze the bag to release the aromatic components of the herbs. The bath tea bag can also be used as a “herbal washcloth”.
Bath tea bags as a gift
Herbal bath teas are ideal gifts for teachers, friends, and family. They are a great way to say “thank you” or show love and care to someone special. To give away the self-made bath tea bags, pack them in a mason jar and make a trailer with instructions for use.
Some important notes:
Despite its many benefits, a warm bath may not be recommended for everyone.
- Do not use very hot water. The ideal bathing temperature is between 34 ° and 36 ° degrees.
- Do not bathe for more than 15-20 minutes.
- If you have heart disease or chronic illness, check with your doctor before starting a new bath routine.
- If you are pregnant, discuss herbal baths with your doctor or midwife.
- Keep some cool drinking water nearby.
- Even a healthy person can feel dizzy or uncomfortable while bathing. If this happens, get out, rest, and drink some water as you may be dehydrated. If you don’t feel better anytime soon, see a doctor.