The Things I Do in the Tub

This sounds dirty, but is actually extremely clean.

If you think taking a long bath is boring, that you just sit there, then you are not using your tub time wisely. The tub is a place I multi-task the most. But, the tasks I am attending to are for me, my whole being, and my sense of peace and accomplishment in the world. 

I do more than just get clean in the tub. It is the focus of my Home Spa/Beauty Salon. It is where I relax; meditate; do simple stretches; do Reiki; perform self-hypnosis; sort out problems or blockages; listen to music; drink wine and water; deep condition my hair; detox my skin and muscles; ease aches and pains; heal skin irritations and imperfections; get ready for sleep or get energized for an event; and get away from all the technical interruptions in life.

My tub is my sanctuary; where I heal my mind, body and soul. Essential Oils and other natural products provide the healing elements needed to heal my body and elevate my mood of choice.


I use Epsom Salt and sometimes green clay to aid in cleaning and detoxification. The essential oils I use depend on my mood, the time of day, and what my skin needs. Here are some of the essential oils, I tend to turn to. You'll notice that essential oils can be used for many purposes. Below are some examples of oils which Relax, Energize, Sooth Tense Muscles, Aid Meditative Practices, Ease PMS and Lessen Period Cramps. All the oils I am listing here have skin healing properties. 

I use about 1/2 cup Epsom Salt, about an 1/2 ounce of green clay and 20 drops of essential oils. If you are new to essential oils, start with 10 drops or less.


Oils to Relax:

Balsam - Peru:  Heavily vanilla balsamic, this essential oil is warming, opening, and comforting. It has expectorant qualities and is used to treat respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, and coughs. Its sweet vanilla undertone can produce a relaxed mood. It has healing properties and can be of great aid to dry, cracked, winter skin. It helps to heal sores, wounds, eczema and rashes.

Bergamot:  Bergamot is that familiar citrus scent found in Earl Grey tea. It has a spicy undertone and adds a fresh note to blends. Bergamot oil is employed to reduce anger, frustration, irritability, anxiety and depression. It is said to help with confidence, concentration, and cheer. It is known to lessen many emotional imbalances. In skin care, it is used to treat acne, eczema, wounds, oily skin and more.

Roman Chamomile: With a bright apple-like undertone, this gentle, relaxing oil is recommended to heal skin inflammation and for cell regeneration. It is also used to treat acne, burns, cuts, and rashes. It is one of the few essential oils gentle enough for infants. Its scent may help calm worries, grief, fear, anger, and other emotional imbalances. This peaceful oil is great to ease nerves, stress, and tension.

Clary Sage:  Clary Sage oil is sweet, rich, and highly relaxing. It has been known to induce colorful dreams, as well as aid in a deep, peaceful rest. In Aromatherapy, it is used to counteract: nervousness, stress, anxiety, nightmares, panic, fear, and guilt. In skin care it helps with acne, oily skin, and wrinkle prevention.

Geranium: Dry with a rosy undertone, geranium oil is wonderful for helping to balance female hormones. It has deodorizing properties and can be very relaxing. It is recommended to help treat many emotional issues including anxiety and depression. It can help increase feelings of self-worth. Its astringent action makes it ideal for controlling oily skin and great for helping to heal cuts & wounds.

Lavender: Highly floral and mildly herbaceous, lavender is considered the most versatile essential oil. It is said to balance one’s energies: stimulating if tired, and relaxing if stressed. It is excellent for treating scarring, acne, burns, eczema, psoriasis, wounds and more. It is great to use to in soaps, baths, or skin ointments to maintain healthy skin. It is known to help with a variety of problems including: anxiety; depression; feelings of fear, anger, aggression, & irritability, insomnia and headaches.

Mandarin: This light, sweet, citrus oil is often employed to fade stretch marks & scars, as well as to help relieve fluid retention. It is used to treat acne, congested pores and oily skin It’s scent is very relaxing. This very gentle oil is one of the few recommended for young children. It’s scent is used to aid depression, anxiety, and feelings of emptiness.

Palma Rosa: Palma Rosa is a wild growing herbaceous plant with very fragrant grassy leaves. The essential oil mimics the name with a light, dry, rosy-floral scent. It is used to dispel anger & frustration and to reduce irritability & stress-related conditions. It can help maintain healthy skin.

Rosewood: Sweet woody oil with an underlying deep rose scent. Rosewood oil is steadying, balancing and can aid concentration. It may help bring about a positive mood and can lessen a headache. In skin care it’s been used to help heal: acne, dermatitis, scars, wounds, and dry and/or sensitive skin. It’s scent is used to heal many kinds of stress related troubles. It is also used as an aphrodisiac.

Oils for Energy

Basil: Basil’s fresh herbaceous scent can heighten focus, reduce nausea, stimulate blood circulation and bring comfort to body and spirit. It can be used to help lift bad moods. This oil is great to use when studying, in an important meeting or interview, or anytime you want to remain sharp and alert. When properly diluted, it can help relieve muscle pain. It is also considered an aphrodisiac. In folklore, the herb Basil is thought to bring money.

Carrot Seed: Warm and earthy, this oil revitalizes and tones. It is used to help skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes, slack skin and more. It offers a nice grounding note when added to blends. In massage oils it can help detoxify joints.

Eucalyptus: Clean, camphoraceous Eucalyptus oil is great for helping to ease headaches and respiratory ails. It helps open up sinuses and can be used to strengthen the immune system again common ills. When used in laundry is can help kill dust mites. Used in dog soaps it can act as an insect repellent. It’s an excellent, economical oil for general cleaning and deodorizing purposes. It’s scent can help lift fatigue. It is used to treat acne and oily skin.

Grapefruit: Grapefruit is a clean, light, and refreshing citrus oil. Its scent is known to help ease headaches, performance stress, and depression. It is can help with clarity, alertness, confidence, and a positive attitude. It is said to help with emotional violence, self-doubt, mental pressure and more.When used in  baths it can help tone skin and many reduce cellulites. It is also good to use when the body is retaining too much water (bloating)..

 

Lavandin Grosso: This oil is a cross between true lavender and spike lavender. Its scent is similar to true lavender, but more herbaceous. It is more stimulating and cooling than lavender. Like lavender, it can help to heal a host off ills, including migraine headaches, anxiety; depression; and feelings of fear, anger, aggression, and irritability. It’s been used in skin care to help heal: blisters, burns, cuts, dry/dull skin, rashes, insect bites, muscle aches, shock, sores, sprains, strains, wounds and more.

Lemon: Lemon has a light, clean citrus scent which can enliven us. It is often employed to help fight infections during the cold and flu season. It can act as restorative and general tonic. Its scent is recommended to help ease mental blocks, lethargy, and stress. Its scent may enhance memory, clarity, and concentration. In skin care it is used to treat acne, cuts, oily skin, warts and more.

Lime:  The powerful scent of sweet, tangy lime oil can pep us up. It has similar healing properties to lemon essential oil. It is often employed to help fight infections during the cold and flu season. It can act as restorative and general tonic. It’s an excellent oil to add to cleaning products.  

Sweet Orange: Sweet, fresh and fruity, this oil warms the heart. The popular scent of orange oil is lively, yet calming. Emotionally, this oil is used to increase happiness, spirituality, connectedness, peace and understanding. It is said to be good when healing from emotional crisis, panic, depression or fear. When used in baths and massage oils it can be very cleansing; it may help eliminate toxins from the body and reduce water retention.

Patchouli: This sweet amber oil is rich and earthy; its scent can be very meditative. It can help with physical and emotional energy. In skin care it is used to treat cracked dry skin; acne; eczema; dermatitis and for wrinkle control. In hair care it’s great for dandruff control and to help encourage hair growth. Emotionally, it is used to treat lethargic depression nervous exhaustion, and stress. This is a particularly stimulating oil, so best not to use before bedtime.

 

Rosemary:  Rosemary is the herb of love and remembrance. The essential oil is recognized as an aphrodisiac. It may also help with memory and concentration as it has been said to strengthen both the brain and the nervous system. Emotionally it is used to increase confidence, energy, clarity, structure, and awareness. In skin care, it has been used to fade varicose veins. It has also been used to: help relieve fluid retention, aid the immune system in fighting infections, relieve headaches, fight nervous exhaustion, and bring relief to respiratory ailments.

Spearmint:  Cool and minty, this essential oil is the most gentle of all the mints. It works as an antiseptic, decongestant, and expectorant. Its scent is said to be comforting to the head, thus it is often employed for tension and migraine headaches. It can also help treat acne and oily skin.

Oils for Meditative and Spiritual Practices

Cedarwood: Warm, woody oil with honey overtones. Cedarwood’s meditative qualities help the mind to focus and can help bring balance to the body. It has been used historically for its soothing & purifying qualities. It is used to counteract worry, fear, irritability, and gloomy thoughts. Cedarwood oil also helps with a variety of skin issues including dermatitis; acne; oily skin & hair; eczema and psoriasis.

* Do not use this oil if you are pregnant.

Frankincense: Calming and focusing frankincense has a warm, sweet, and rich scent that has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries. It often acts to slow and deepen breathing making it perfect for meditation. It’s scent is said to stimulate creativity and enlightenment. It is used to ease feelings of anxiety, grief, fear, and disconnection. In skin care it can be used to heal chapped skin. Folklore tells us that frankincense is used to welcome in positive forces.

 

Juniper Berry:  Juniper Berry has a fresh, nutty, berry scent. In folklore this oil is said to augment psychic purity. This meditative oil is used for spiritual purposes and is considered sacred in some cultures. In aromatherapy it is used to calm emotions. It is said to help improve confidence, peace and help with many forms of inner conflict. It’s sometimes used to detoxify the body as well as tone & stimulate flesh. It is also known to strengthen the immune system.

Myrrh: This is an old fashioned remedy for making a wash for infections. It was used by the Egyptians and Hebrews for incense, cosmetics, as perfume fixatives, and medicines. It was also used at that time for embalming. It was considered, as was Frankincense, a rare treasure and was thought to be a great gift for baby Jesus. It is a gummy resin derived from the shrub Commiphora, which is found in Arabia and Abyssinia. Now-a-days, it is used in treating sore throats, infected gums, thrush, and athlete’s foot. It is good for healing dry, cracked skin. It contains cleansing agents and has been used to counter poisons in the body. It also has worked to stimulate the circulatory system and as an expectorant. It also a good oil to use in meditation. 

Oakmoss: Oakmoss oil is an excellent fixative oil with a rich, woody, meditative scent. It has been used in perfumery as early as the 16th century. When it has been found in the ancient royal tombs of Egypt, it has still been fragrant even after centuries buried.

Sweet Orange: Sweet, fresh and fruity, this oil warms the heart. The popular scent of orange oil is lively, yet calming. Emotionally, this oil is used to increase happiness, spirituality, connectedness, peace and understanding. It is said to be good when healing from emotional crisis, panic, depression or fear. When used in baths  it can be very cleansing; it may help eliminate toxins from the body and reduce water retention.

Blood Orange: Blood Orange has similar healing properties as Sweet Orange. Using the two oils mixed together gives the blend and added complexity, while maintaining its soothing qualities.

 

Patchouli: This sweet amber oil is rich and earthy; its scent can be very meditative. It can help with physical and emotional energy. In skin care it is used to treat cracked dry skin; acne; eczema; dermatitis and for wrinkle control. In hair care it’s great for dandruff control and to help encourage hair growth. Emotionally, it is used to treat lethargic depression nervous exhaustion, and stress. This is a particularly stimulating oil, so best not to use before bedtime.

Rosemary:  Rosemary is the herb of love and remembrance. The essential oil is recognized as an aphrodisiac. It may also help with memory and concentration as it has been said to strengthen both the brain and the nervous system. Emotionally it is used to increase confidence, energy, clarity, structure, and awareness. In skin care, it has been used to fade varicose veins. It has also been used to: help relieve fluid retention, aid the immune system in fighting infections, relieve headaches, fight nervous exhaustion, and bring relief to respiratory ailments. It may also stimulate hair growth when used in hair care products.

Oil for Pre-Menstrual Tension

Carrot Seed: Warm and earthy, this oil revitalizes and tones. It is used to help skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes, slack skin and more. It offers a nice grounding note when added to blends. In massage oils it can help detoxify joints. - can help if your period is late.

Celery Seed: Light with a little spice, Celery seed adds an interesting undertone to blends. It is used to ease digestive complaints such as indigestion and liver congestion. It can help detoxify to body.- can help if your period is late.

Roman Chamomile: With a bright apple-like undertone, this gentle, relaxing oil is recommended to heal skin inflammation and for cell regeneration. It is also used to treat acne, burns, cuts, and rashes. It is one of the few essential oils gentle enough for infants. Its scent may help calm worries, grief, fear, anger, and other emotional imbalances. This peaceful oil is great to ease nerves, stress, and tension.

Clary Sage:  Clary Sage oil is sweet, rich, and highly relaxing. It has been known to induce colorful dreams, as well as aid in a deep, peaceful rest. In Aromatherapy, it is used to counteract: nervousness, stress, anxiety, nightmares, panic, fear, and guilt. In skin care it helps with acne, oily skin, and wrinkle prevention. It is also recommended for PMS.

Fennel: This is a sweet, licorice-like oil. It is used to help keep skin young looking, and for weight control. Fennel often helps balance female hormones and may ease premenstrual symptoms. It can be used in small amounts in baths, soaps, and oils and has been reported to reduce cellulite. -can help if your period is late.

Geranium: Dry with a rosy undertone, geranium oil is wonderful for helping to balance female hormones. It has deodorizing properties and can be very relaxing. It is recommended to help treat many emotional issues including anxiety and depression. It can help increase feelings of self-worth. Its astringent action makes it ideal for controlling oily skin and great for helping to heal cuts & wounds.

Grapefruit: Grapefruit is a clean, light, and refreshing citrus oil. Its scent is known to help ease headaches, performance stress, and depression. It is can help with clarity, alertness, confidence, and a positive attitude. It is said to help with emotional violence, self-doubt, mental pressure and more.When used in baths it can help tone skin and many reduce cellulites. It is also good to use when the body is retaining too much water (bloating).

Juniper Berry:  Juniper Berry has a fresh, nutty, berry scent. In folklore this oil is said to augment psychic purity. This meditative oil is used for spiritual purposes and is considered sacred in some cultures. In aromatherapy it is used to calm emotions. It is said to help improve confidence, peace and help with many forms of inner conflict. It’s sometimes used to detoxify the body as well as tone & stimulate flesh. It is also known to strengthen the immune system.-can help if your period is late.

Lavender: Highly floral and mildly herbaceous, lavender is considered the most versatile essential oil. It is said to balance one’s energies: stimulating if tired, and relaxing if stressed. It is excellent for treating scarring, acne, burns, eczema, psoriasis, wounds and more. It is great to use to in soaps, baths, or skin ointments to maintain healthy skin. It is known to help with a variety of problems including: anxiety; depression; feelings of fear, anger, aggression, & irritability, insomnia and headaches.

Oils for Menstrual cramps

Roman Chamomile: With a bright apple-like undertone, this gentle, relaxing oil is recommended to heal skin inflammation and for cell regeneration. It is also used to treat acne, burns, cuts, and rashes. It is one of the few essential oils gentle enough for infants. Its scent may help calm worries, grief, fear, anger, and other emotional imbalances. This peaceful oil is great to ease nerves, stress, and tension.

Lavender: Highly floral and mildly herbaceous, lavender is considered the most versatile essential oil. It is said to balance one’s energies: stimulating if tired, and relaxing if stressed. It is excellent for treating scarring, acne, burns, eczema, psoriasis, wounds and more. It is great to use to in soaps, baths, or skin ointments to maintain healthy skin. It is known to help with a variety of problems including: anxiety; depression; feelings of fear, anger, aggression, & irritability, insomnia and headaches.

Oils for Muscle Aches

Basil: Basil’s fresh herbaceous scent can heighten focus, reduce nausea, stimulate blood circulation and bring comfort to body and spirit. It can be used to help lift bad moods. This oil is great to use when studying, in an important meeting or interview, or anytime you want to remain sharp and alert. When properly diluted, it can help relieve muscle pain. It is also considered an aphrodisiac. In folklore, the herb Basil is thought to bring money.

Carrot Seed: Warm and earthy, this oil revitalizes and tones. It is used to help skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes, slack skin and more. It offers a nice grounding note when added to blends. In massage oils it can help detoxify joints. - can help if your period is late.

Eucalyptus: Clean, camphoraceous Eucalyptus oil is great for helping to ease headaches and respiratory ails. It helps open up sinuses and can be used to strengthen the immune system again common ills. When used in laundry is can help kill dust mites. Used in dog soaps it can act as an insect repellent. It’s an excellent, economical oil for general cleaning and deodorizing purposes. It’s scent can help lift fatigue.

Lavender: Highly floral and mildly herbaceous, lavender is considered the most versatile essential oil. It is said to balance one’s energies: stimulating if tired, and relaxing if stressed. It is excellent for treating scarring, acne, burns, eczema, psoriasis, wounds and more. It is great to use to in soaps, baths, or skin ointments to maintain healthy skin. It is known to help with a variety of problems including: anxiety; depression; feelings of fear, anger, aggression, & irritability, insomnia and headaches.

Lavandin Grosso: This oil is a cross between true lavender and spike lavender. Its scent is similar to true lavender, but more herbaceous. It is more stimulating and cooling than lavender. Like lavender, it can help to heal a host off ills, including migraine headaches, anxiety; depression; and feelings of fear, anger, aggression, and irritability. It’s been used in skin care to help heal: blisters, burns, cuts, dry/dull skin, rashes, insect bites, muscle aches, shock, sores, sprains, strains, wounds and more.

Rosemary:  Rosemary is the herb of love and remembrance. The essential oil is recognized as an aphrodisiac. It may also help with memory and concentration as it has been said to strengthen both the brain and the nervous system. Emotionally it is used to increase confidence, energy, clarity, structure, and awareness. In skin care, it has been used to fade varicose veins. It has also been used to: help relieve fluid retention, aid the immune system in fighting infections, relieve headaches, fight nervous exhaustion, and bring relief to respiratory ailments. It may also stimulate hair growth when used in hair care products.

To learn more about Essential Oils, Aromatherapy and the art of  do-it-yourself Health and Beauty please visit Kameleon Healing Aromatherapy, and sign up for our free newsletter, Scent Notes.