The Power of Herbs

For centuries, man has been utilizing the healing power of herbs to improve overall health as well as mental and emotional well-being. Today, modern medicine is being used to test and prove the healing capacities of different herbs that folklore has long considered effective. These include a wide range of plant species.

For instance, the ancient Sumerians of Mesopotamia noted the beneficial properties of caraway and thyme. In ancient Egypt, garlic, aloe and poppy were commonly employed for their medicinal value, while the Chinese discovered the benefits of ginseng and gingko. In India, herbalism has been widely practiced for thousands of years--sandalwood and cinnamon are long-time favorites often used in formulations designed to improve one's "prana," or universal life energy.

In addition to herbal remedies, other all-natural substances have long been valued for their positive influences on physical health. This includes minerals, like mud and sea salts, and animal-produced substances, like milk, honey and bees wax. For instance, Cleopatra bathed in milk to soften and moisturize her skin.

A Beginner's Guide to Aromatherapy and Popular Aromatherapy Products

The term "aromatherapy" was first developed in the 1920s by a French pharmacist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who studied the many positive effects of different essential oils after he mistakenly soothed his burnt arm with lavender. This particular strain of herbalism, however, had already been practiced in many forms by many cultures, such as the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Babylonians. Aromatherapy focuses specifically on the sense of smell, soothing and healing the body via inhalation. Room diffusion, bath, and massage can all employ elements of aromatherapy.

Popular aromatherapy products include scented soaps, lotion and bath gels designed to make the bathing experience truly invigorating or soothing. Essential oils that can be heated for room diffusion or diluted and applied directly to the skin are also popular. Pillow and wraps filled with healing herbs can also be used to warm or cool an injured or aching body part, while scented versions will also heal the weary mind. Specially designed aromatherapy packs are available at stores like Heat Makes Sense, and they can be used to relieve everything from migraines, insomnia and arthritis to sunstroke, burns and bruises. Key ingredients include lavender, lemongrass, rosemary and peppermint, among others.

Other Herbal Bath and Beauty Products

While aromatherapy is an effective way to maintain physical and emotional health, one's appearance also needs some serious TLC from time to time. Most all-natural skin care and beauty products combine new discoveries with time-honored traditions. For instance, Native Americans recognized the healing properties of mud hundreds of years ago, soaking in it to relieve sore muscles or joints. Today concentrated mud-based products can be purchased for those who want to experience the therapeutic and beautifying powers of mud in the privacy of their own homes.

Also, minerals extracted from the Dead Sea have long been employed for their many benefits. Salt soaks have been known to not only soften skin, but improve skin conditions, such as acne, as well as more serious health issues, such as respiratory problems. Using facial soaps, scrubs and toners made with Dead Sea salts and minerals can drastically improve the overall feel and appearance of one's skin.