Tips for Using Essential Oils in the Bath
As you begin your adventure into using essential oils more frequently, you may decide to start using them in the bath. An aromatherapy bath is one of the most popular ways to use essential oils and it is usually a very relaxing and therapeutic experience. Some people may have an unpleasant experience when having an aromatherapy bath as they make some common mistakes.
When using essential oils in the bath you should follow the following tips:
1. Never add essential oils directly into your bath water.
When using essential oils in the bath you must always ensure that you disperse the oil in the water. As essential oils are not water soluble, pouring them directly into a bath will result in a film of undiluted essential oils floating on top of the water. When you climb into the bath, the small drops of oil can adhere to your skin (and tender nether regions!) just as if you’d applied the undiluted oil directly your skin, which can irritate and sting.
2. Always combine essential oils with a carrier oil first.
In order to disperse the essential oils throughout the bath water they should first be mixed in a carrier oil, such as coconut, olive, sunflower or jojoba oil. Three to 12 drops of essential oil in a tablespoon (15 ml) of carrier oil is usually enough to create a very aromatic, therapeutic bath. The bath water should be stirred before getting in to help circulate oils.
Alternatively, you can add the essential oil to bath salts, such as Dead Sea salt or Himalayan salt. Simply combine 10 to 15 drops of essential oil and a couple teaspoons of jojoba oil with half a cup of bath salts, and then add to the water.
If you only have vegetable oil, you can use that, but other oil options are much better to use. Be careful when you get in the bath as the oil may make the tub slippery.
3. Choose essential oils which match your mood
Try different combinations of essential oils which match your bath time mood. Below are some examples to transform your bath experience. In all these combinations, combine the essential oils with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of carrier oil before adding to the bath.
Essential Oil Blends for the Bath
Examples of essential oil blends which can be added to your bath include the following:
Bath to Boost your Mood
This is an energising and revitalizing combination which can also improve concentration and focus. In consists of:
- 3 drops rosemary
- 5 drops lemon
- 2 drops thyme linalool
Bath for Tired, Aching Muscles
This combination of oils is ideal for boosting circulation which soothes tired and aching muscles:
- 4 drops lemongrass
- 3 drops lavender
- 5 drops marjoram
Relaxation Bath
This calming and relaxing combo can reduce stress and get you ready for bed.
- 3 drops frankincense
- 4 drops chamomile (German or Roman)
- 5 drops lavender
When adding essential oils to your bath experiment with different combinations. You can try different carrier oils, or combine the oils with bath salts before adding them to the bath water. Try different oils, such as lavender and rose for relaxation, chamomile to help you sleep better, or vetiver and frankincense for an entirely different bath experience.
When choosing the oils, think about the scents you want to experience as well as what health benefits you are looking for. If your bath is for stress relief or anxiety, the oils will be different than when your muscles are sore and tired.
100% Pure therapeutic grade essential oils can be purchased here.