Body Wraps

Spa Style Herbal Body Wrap
6 cups very hot water
1/2 cup dried chamomile
1/2 cup dried rosemary
1/4 cup fresh mint or peppermint leaves
Cheesecloth or wide cotton gauze
Linen or loose-weave cotton, cut into long strips 4 to 6 inches wide
Roll of plastic wrap

Bring the water to a boil and remove it from the heat (or pour it into a stoppered sink). Wrap the herbs in the cheesecloth or gauze, making a large bundle, and push them down into the water with a large spoon or other utensil. Cover the infusion to contain the steam and allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Uncover the herbal infusion, stir it once or twice, and add the long strips of linen or cotton. When the fabric is saturated, wring it out and wrap the strips around your body (like a mummy) except your head, lower arms, and feet. The infusion and fabric should be hot,butnot so hot they will burn you! When you're done, repeat the wrapping process by covering the fabric with the plastic wrap.

Make a cold compress for your head and pour yourself a cool glass of water to sip while you rest. Now lie down, relax and let the herbs do their work. Leave the wrapping on your body for no more than 15 to 20 minutes; then unwrap and cool your body for another 15 minutes before showering.

HINT: If you have high blood pressure, heart problems, or other medical conditions, such high-heat situations may be harmful. Be sure to consult your doctor if you have health problems and want to do this procedure.
From "The Natural Beauty and Bath Book" by Casey Keller

Herbal Body Wrap
1 cup of your favorite herb or combination of herbs
Large beach towel or cotton sheets
Plastic drop cloth or shower curtain

Fill a large sink or bucket with very hot (but not boiling) water. Pour in your herbs and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Add the beach towel or sheets.

Lay the plastic drop cloth on your bed. Wring out the towel or sheets and wrap around your body. Lie down on the bed and have your partner help you wrap yourself in the plastic drop cloth. Cover yourself with blankets and lie quietly for 10 minutes --no more. Don't overdo it. Try not to talk or be distracted.

Slowly unwrap yourself and get up.
From "Natural Beauty at Home" by Janice Cox