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The art of Aromatherapy to enhance or modify mood has been used over the ages; scented baths were common in Ancient Egypt and Rome. Cleopatra was said to have bathed in lavender scented milk. Mark Antony most likely preferred the aroma of dill and coriander.
We are once again learning to appreciate the importance of aromatics in our lives. The calming effect of chamomile and the stimulating fragrance of wintergreen are no longer considered merely folklore, but instead, are viewed as valid therapies in today’s medicinally savvy world.
Even if you don’t have your own herb garden, there are many sources of fresh or dried herbs and essential oils to supply the fragrance for making organic beauty treatments.
Scented Bath Oil with Fresh or dried herbs
Equipment: Measuring cup, large cooking pot, bowl, cheesecloth or strainer, blender, and small glass bottles with corks or caps
Ingredients: 2 to 3 cups of fresh herbs or 4 cups of dried herbs, alcohol (vodka is the cleanest), and sweet almond oil. Safflower and sunflower oils can also be used, but sweet almond oil is, by far, the most pleasant.
Directions: Simmer the herbs in oil on the stove for about one hour then strain into a bowl. If you would like a stronger fragrance, repeat using the strained oil infusion and more herbs. Blend 4 parts oil and 1 part alcohol until well-mixed, about 10 seconds. Pour into bottles and cap. Keep in a dry place out of direct sun. Use in the bath by putting a few drops under the running water to release the fragrance.
Scented Bath Oil With Essential oils much easier)
Equipment: measuring cup, blender, and glass bottles with corks or caps
Ingredients: any fragrance of essential oil, alcohol (remember, vodka is the cleanest), and sweet almond oil (the best), safflower oil, or sunflower oil
Directions: Mix 1 part essential oil with 4 parts sweet oil and 1 part alcohol in blender for about 10 seconds. Pour into bottles, cap, and then store in a dry place out of direct sunlight. Use the same as in the previous recipe.
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