Friday, January 08, 2010

Aromatherapy Steam

People have been utilizing the benefits of Aromatherapy for centuries. One of the methods of nourishing the face is the inhalation of steam that is infused with the essences of herbs. People receive inhalation treatments at spas but you can give yourself a good Aromatherapy steam inexpensively right in your own home. All you will need is a pot, a bowl, and an ordinary bath or kitchen towel along with your herbs of choice.

The inhalation of steam in and of itself is very beneficial to the sinuses because it hydrates the cilia in the nasal passages which keeps mucous moving along. If the cilia become dried out they do not work properly and the mucous stops moving properly and painful congestion can occur. Also, many people find that the heat of the steam relaxes the muscles and improves sinus headaches.

Herbs such as chammomile and lavender have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties and can be beneficial when used in a steam inhalation. Lavender is also believed to relieve headaches. Herbs such as rosemary and mint have stimulating properties and can leave people feeling refreshed after an inhalation.

For an Aromatherapy steam inhalation boil water in a pot on the stovetop and add your herbs of choice to the boiling water. Remove the pot from the heat, pour the water in a bowl and place it on a table. Sit by the bowl and lean your head over it with the towel draping over you and the bowl so that the steam does not escape. Make sure to hold your head 6 to 8 inches above the bowl. Inhale the herb infused steam for about 10 minutes. Be sure to remove the towel and breathe fresh air if you need to. The steam will open your pores, hydrate your skin as well as give you the benefits of the herbs that you have infused it with. You may also use essential oils to dilute in the water instead of the actual herbs. Herbal and floral essential oils can be found in health food stores and bath/body supply stores. The only drawback is that they can be quite expensive.

* The information here is not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or malady nor is it meant to replace the advice of your doctor. Take extra precautions with herbal steam inhalations if you suffer from allergies, asthma, have sensitive skin, are pregnant or nursing. Always seek the advice of your doctor if you are unsure about anything.

No comments: