Rosemary Murphy, LE

Herbs and plants help to satisfy physiological and psychological needs. Using products that are as pure and unprocessed as possible is the goal in order to achieve results with essential oils and treatments made from them. There are several ways in which to attain the desired effects from essential oils of plants and herbs, but however you choose to use them, make sure that you are getting them in their highest concentrations.

A very relaxing and soothing manner in which to enjoy these substances is as herbal baths. Purest natural herbs interact with the natural healing and soothing powers of water. Soaking for 20 minutes or so benefits body and mind through skin absorption and inhalation of the herbs. That can also be used in combination with herbal cleansing of the body with bath and shower gels containing the same ingredients. Herbal bath and shower gels effectively cleanse and deodorize, yet leave skin feeling fresh, soft and smooth and the longer the gel is left on the skin before rinsing, the more intense the herbs become.

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Herbal lotions and creams provide skin care with aromatic benefits for all skin types. Dry, dehydrated skin is balanced and moisturized with sweet almond oil, for example. Many of these kinds of products are also fortified with vitamins such as A and E for super moisturizing results and instant re-hydration. Herbal foot care also yields outstanding results on the toughest part of the body.

Ingestion of many of these ingredients in teas and pure plant juices provides beneficial health-giving properties. They help strengthen the body’s organs and regulate their functions depending on you need or condition. Again, as with the purity of essential oils, it is very important that the teas and juices be cultivated and manufactured under the strictest organic standards.

Here’s a suggestion for a wonderful “spa” effect to try at home:

Steep a cup of pure herbal tea and take it to your bath. Shower with an herbal gel in warm water, leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing. Finish with a cold spritz. Draw a comfortably warm tub of water infused with herbal bath soak. Sip the tea while soaking for 20 minutes or so. You can lightly massage your skin if you choose during this soaking time. When you are ready, simply pat your skin dry. Do not rinse. This will help with maximum herbal absorption. Finish with an herbal body cream or lotion to moisturize, condition and protect the skin. Pay extra attention to hands, elbows and feet. Rest for 30 minutes before continuing your day or enjoy a good night’s sleep.

For information on plants and herbs for wellness, contact Beyond Harmony Day Spa at (661) 298-8008.