Balneotherapy
BALNEOTHERAPY
Balneotherapy is the art or science (depending on whom you ask) of healing through bathing or soaking.
We need water.
We are made of water.
We should not be surprised that it can help us heal.
There is supportive science behind balneotherapy and hydrotherapy.
Because the skin is our body's largest organ, submersion is essentially full-body medicine.
Dermal absorption can be an ideal pathway for maximizing bathing enhancements, such as:
salts and minerals
mud, clay, detoxifiers
moisturizers
essential oils and aromatics
A 20-30 minute submersion is a true gift of self-care.
Read on to discover how to enjoy an aromatic bath.
THE AROMATIC BATH
I’m an advocate for self-care, relaxation, and deep soaks.
Weaving aromatherapy into the bath is an ancient practice with modern benefits, like:
promoting deep relaxation,
decreasing the feelings of stress,
and soothing tension in the body.
SAFELY enjoy essential oils in the bath
Water does not mix with oil, and water does not mix with essential oils.
Without an emulsifier or dispersant to evenly disperse the essential oil into a bath, it will float like a blob on the top of the water, increasing the likelihood of skin sensitivities and reactions. This is especially important for babies and children, but truly applies to us all.
To ensure even dispersal, simply mix the essential oils with a cleanser, body wash, or shampoo that you currently use before adding it to the bathwater.
Enhance the Aromatic Bath Experience
Dispersing in a carrier oil (like almond or olive oil) will also provide extra moisture to the skin, but will also make the bath slippery. Use with caution.
Got milk? Consider adding raw milk to a bath to nourish the skin. It’s packed with skin supportive agents like vitamin D, proteins that boost elasticity, retinol, biotin, fats that help soften the skin, alpha-hydroxy-acid and lactic acid to naturally exfoliate, hydration helpers… I could go on…
Always ensure that you’re selecting skin-safe essential oils. Many essential oils can create heat or burning sensations on the skin, which can be uncomfortable. While citrus oils tend to be child-friendly, I have known many children and adults who are sensitive to citrus essential oils in the bath. Lavender essential oil is a generally safe option, and is well-known for its relaxing qualities.
Add the aromatic mix after you’ve entered the tub. You’ll get more out of the experience, as this preserves the aromatic qualities of the essential oils and prevents the therapeutic compounds from evaporating before you encounter them.
Aromatic Bath Recipe
In a shatter-proof cup or bowl, mix (in this order):
1 TBSP gentle cleanser, shampoo, or body wash,
5-10 drops of lavender essential oil,
stir together, then stir in
1 cup raw milk (optional).
Get comfortable in the bath, then gently pour in your aromatics.
Take deep, relaxing breaths as you enjoy the aroma.
Happy soaking!
Jacquelyn Benjamin, Clinical Aromatherapist
PS - Below are a few articles that you might find interesting that support the use of baths as therapy.