Thursday, August 20, 2009

Using Simple Herbs in Tea, Bath and Facial Steaming for a Quick Anytime Spa

Herbs are a quick and easy way to use for a tea, bath or facial streaming. You can easily create a mini spa day with herbs. Herbs are used worldwide from various indigenous plants. Herbs are commonly used to care for for your body and skin, including foot baths that feel great after a long day on or off your feet. Many herbs are available all year long.

Teas - Water Infusions

Grab your tea cup, place 1 teaspoon dried herbs or if you are using freshly chopped leaves or flowers then add 2 teaspoons in your mug. Carefully pour over your herbs about 1/3 cup of almost boiling water. To get the richest flavor you will want to allow your tea to steep. You can easily get the boldest, richest taste and benefit of your herbal experience by placing your saucer over the top of the cup and allowing your tea to marinate for 15 minutes or so.

The wonderful aspect of water infusions is they are beneficial either hot or cold. Hot tea can be beneficial to assist with digestion as well as it has cleansing benefits. You can use cold infusions as a skin refresher or a rinse for your hair. You are probably familiar with the commonly used green tea found in shampoos and astringents.

Bath

If you are using dried herbs you may not want to place directly in your bath water. I recommend that you place your herbs in a small cheesecloth bag. After you have placed 3 teaspoons of your dried herbs in the bag, tie it over your faucet in order for the water to run through.

However, if you have the benefit of using fresh herbs you may add them directly into your bath. Light some candles, tea candles are best as they are a one time use and easily disposable. Have some soothing music playing softly in the background and relax; preferably use music without words so you can listen to yourself and the Universe. Turn off the light and relax for a while.

Facial Steaming

Grab yourself a towel and a large bowl that is heat resistant; pour near boiling water into to bowl until it is almost full about 2/3 full. When you are using dried herbs, add 1 teaspoon to your water. If you are using fresh herbs or flowers then you are going to place 2 teaspoons into the bowl. Once you are set up, place your towel over your head and lean over the bowl. Savor the rich aroma for about 15 minutes.

The recipes provided in this article are measured for individual use, so please do not exceed the recommended amount allocated in these recipes. Herbal mixtures should not be stored and used the day of brewing. Generally, herbal teas, bath and skin care potions are safe to use during pregnancy however, when in doubt please be advised by your health care professional. Finally, do not use the same herb for more than 3 days at at time.

Herbs are natural so enjoy them! Any of these methods of using herbs will provide you with immediate gratification and relaxation. The great thing is it only takes a few minutes to prepare. In no time at all you will be ready to experience a mini spa any time of the day! Enjoy.

Andrea

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