Bath and Body Oils for Relaxation

There are many recipes for essential oils to be used for bath and body. First, there are a few things to consider when putting oils into your bath. Remember that carrier oils and essential oils will not mix with the bath water. There is an old saying “Oil and water do not mix”.  When you make a bath blend, remember that when you get out of the tub, the oils will stick or coat your skin and the lining of the tub, so be very careful you don’t slip when getting out.

Essential oils are a great way to help you relax while you are take a bath.  When filling the tub, let the tub fill to a quarter full and then add your essential oil blend. The running water will help mix the oils and cause the essential oil to partially evaporate and release into the air bringing an aromatherapy effect.  I find this to be very effective when needing to unwind or de-stress.

Another good way of using oils is to apply your blend to your body before or/and after you enter the tub. If you are using a pure essential oil blend, make sure to cut the blend with a carrier oil before application to avoid any skin sensitivity (essential oils should be cut to at least a 5% dilution). By applying the blend to your body before or after taking the bath or shower, you will benefit from the oils as they soften and nourish your skin. 

One of my very favorite bath blends to have on hand is made by using the following: 1Tbsp of Avocado oil, 20 drops of Jojoba oil, 8 drops Jamarosa root, 2 drops of Lemon or Lime oil, 5 drops of Lavender and 2 drops of Amyris oil.  Mix all the carrier oils together first and the add in the essential oils and store in an amber glass bottle for later use.

Another blend I love is the Extra Rich Bath and Body oil. That recipe contains: 1 tsp Avocado Oil, 1 tsp Apricot oil, ¼ tsp Jojoba Oil, ¼ Grape Seed Oil, 4 drops Lavender Oil, 2 drops Frankincense Oil, 6 drops of Jamarosa Root and 6 drops of Ho-Wood oil. This formula is extra rich and nourishing to the skin. It can be applied before or after a bath or as a nourishing everyday body oil.

A general All-Purpose Body Oil is made with the following: 1 tsp Grape Seed Oil, 1 tsp Avocado Oil, 1 tsp infused rosehip and pedals oil, and 3  to 5 drops of your favorite essential oil blend. Make sure to pay close attention to the carrier oil to essential oil ratio. Only use small amounts of essential oil blend to your carrier oil to avoid skin sensitivity.  

For ultimate enjoyment, create a nice relaxing atmosphere.  Using unscented candles, have a fluffy towel ready along with something relaxing to wear after you get out of the bath.  Now draw a warm relaxing bath, lock the door and let your self be taken away from all your cares. That is until you get out and find your family and everyday responsibilities waiting for you. 

James Kelly Master Aromologist, Aromatherapist and Herbalist.