Why Stressed-Out People Are Bathing In Tea
There are few things more relaxing than a long soak in the tub or a hot cup of herbal tea. Put them together, and you’ve got a sweet combination that soothes body and mind. (PHOTOGRAPH BY MAKELE PHOTOGRAPHY/GETTY)
by Erica Rodefer Winters, for Rodale’s Organic Life
Baths aren’t just for stress relief—they offer some major health benefits, too. “Our skin is our largest organ of absorption,” says Pat Harpell, founder of the South Carolina Herbal Society. “Every pore of your body is taking in medicine when you’re sitting in a tub.”
Studies have shown that daily baths can decrease anxiety as much as prescription drugs, encourage cardiovascular health, and even boost immunity.
The addition of herbs just ups the goodness quotient. An herbal tea bath can elevate your mood (hello, jasmine), help you sleep (lavender, chamomile), chill you out after a stressful day (hibiscus), or energize you all over (peppermint).
While you could toss a bunch of Celestial Seasonings bags in to soak with you, it’s easy and fun to make your own special bath tea to keep on hand for when you need a little You time. Bonus: The recipe below won’t stain your tub!
BASIC BATH TEA RECIPE
1 large cotton muslin tea bag (available in natural foods stores) or tied-off pantyhose
½-1 cup desired combination of dried lavender, chamomile, jasmine,hibiscus, peppermint
1. Blend ingredients in a bowl, and place into your tea bag. Close tightly.
2. Add to hot bathwater, and let steep for a few minutes. Ease on in, and soak for 15 to 20 minutes for maximum benefits. Repeat daily.
This article was originally published on Rodale’s Organic Life.
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