Overview
Heated herbal wraps may be used to rid your body of impurities, help with relaxation, aid in weight loss, and treat arthritis, injuries and skin conditions. Heat is a necessary element of a body wrap as it helps open the pores of your skin, providing an escape for impurities. The open pores absorb the herbs, minerals, extracts and amino nutrients in the warm wrap, allowing healing treatment to reach the affected area. You can make your own heated herbal wrap at home using herbs to treat your specific needs.
Step 1
Place 2-1/2 qts. water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Step 2
Add 3 tsp.dry herbs or 6 tbsp. fresh herbs to the boiling water. Different herbs offer different healing properties; chamomile soothes the skin, ginger stimulates circulation, rosehips nourish dry skin and lavender aids relaxation. Select the types of herbs for your heated wrap based on the desired benefits.
Step 3
Cover the saucepan and remove it from the heat. Allow the herbs to steep in the hot water for 15 minutes. While the herbs are steeping, heat two blankets in the dryer. The blankets will help your body retain heat during the herbal wrap.
Step 4
Prepare your wrapping station by spreading a large plastic sheet on the floor, lounger or bed. Cover the plastic with one heated blanket. Cover the heated blanket with another large sheet of plastic. The plastic will protect your floor or furniture, and the blanket will help hold the heat during the wrap. Continue heating the other blanket until you are ready to wrap your body.
Step 5
Strain the herbs from the water using cheesecloth. Discard the herbs.
Step 6
Soak 8-in. wide bandages, strips of muslin, or a cotton sheet in the herb-infused water. Cover the saucepan to help retain the heat.
Step 7
Place the second heated blanket on top of the top plastic sheet. Cover the second heated blanket with a third blanket to help hold in the heat.
Step 8
Remove the bandages or muslin one at a time, wring them out and wrap your body with the material. Wrap your body as you would for support if you had a sprained ankle. Do not make the wrap tighter than a knee sock.
Step 9
Rest, lying between the first heated blanket and the second plastic sheet covering your wrapping station, for between one and two hours.
