LAVENDER BATH BOMBS
A warm bath running, candles emitting a dim light, your favorite calming music whispering in the background; sounds like the makings of a relaxing evening. If you really want to indulge in a luxurious spa treatment without leaving your home oasis, add a natural lavender bath bomb to the mix. Not only do these beauties create a beneficial soaking experience, but they will also look gorgeous on display in your bathroom.
MAKING LAVENDER BATH BOMBS
The first step in making bath bombs is to determine the type of bath bomb mold you would like to use. There are many options out there, but I prefer a two-piece round stainless-steel bath bomb mold to eliminate waste and plastic usage.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of baking soda, 1/2 cup of citric acid, 1/2 cup of organic corn starch, and 1/2 cup Epsom salt. I recommend adding each dry ingredient to the bowl using a fine mesh strainer to remove any clumps that may form.
In a separate mixing bowl or measuring cup with a pouring spout, add 5 drops of 100% pure organic lavender essential oil to 2-1/2 teaspoons of melted organic coconut oil. Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture while gently whisking everything together. Use a spray bottle of organic witch hazel extract to spray the mixture until it has reached a damp sand-like consistency that holds its shape. I find about 1 teaspoon of witch hazel creates a workable texture.
You are now ready to place your ingredients in the mold. Using the two-piece stainless steel bath bomb mold option, add a pinch of organic dried lavender flowers at the bottom of one of the bath bomb mold halves, carefully add the bath bomb mixture on top of the dried flower, and pack the mold half so the mixture fills and forms to the mold. Fill the other half with the bath bomb mixture, again, packing it in to fill and form to the mold. Next, place a bit of loose bath bomb mixture on top of one of the mold halves and then carefully press both halves together for several seconds. Remove the bath bomb from the mold, detaching one half of the mold at a time, and allow to dry overnight. Transfer the bath bombs to an airtight container and label your lavender bath bombs with the contents and date of creation.
UNDERSTANDING THE INGREDIENTS
BAKING SODA (SODIUM BICARBONATE)
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is renowned for its ability to soften and relieve irritated skin. It may also aid in detoxifying the body by cleansing and removing toxins. The gentle abrasive action of baking soda helps detach dead skin providing a deep cleansing for the pores. Baking soda is typically the main ingredient in bath bomb recipes.
CITRIC ACID
Citric acid, when combined with baking soda and placed in water, prompts a reaction that produces that splendid fizz effect we all love. As an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), citric acid has the ability to exfoliate the outermost layers of the skin aiding in the removal of dead skin cells.
CORN STARCH
Corn starch acts as a filler in bath bombs to steady the rate at which the baking soda and citric acid dissolve in water. It is also the ingredient that contributes to the smooth texture of the bath bombs.
EPSOM SALT
Epsom salt is made up of two ingredients: magnesium and sulfate, both of which have been shown to support several of the body’s internal processes including detoxification and muscle function. Epsom salt can ease those unwanted aches and pains and encourage some good ole relaxation.
COCONUT OIL
Carrier oils offer a wide variety of beneficial properties that our skin loves to soak up. In this DIY recipe, I have opted to use coconut oil for its high levels of linoleic acid and ability to reduce inflammation while moisturizing the skin. It is worth mentioning that coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that may benefit those prone to acne and breakouts.
WITCH HAZEL EXTRACT
Witch hazel extract acts as part of the wet element to shape the dry ingredients in your bath bomb molds. As an astringent witch hazel also tightens and binds skin tissue whilst reducing skin irritation.
LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL
Lavender essential oil is one of the most adored essential oils in aromatherapy. Its sweet and floral aroma radiates tranquility and calmness; it is my top choice for both anxiety and skin healing. Feel free to substitute any of your favorite skin-loving essential oils in this recipe or simply allow the dried lavender flowers to be the star of the show.
DRIED BOTANICALS
This is completely optional, but I think dried flowers and herbs add a decorative touch to these aromatherapy bath bombs, especially if you are not using any colorants. I have selected dried lavender flowers to complement the lavender essential oil.
DIY LAVENDER BATH BOMBS
Ingredients
1 cup baking soda
1/2 cup citric acid
1/2 cup organic corn starch
1/2 cup Epsom salt
2-1/2 teaspoons organic coconut oil
5 drops organic lavender essential oil
1 teaspoon organic witch hazel extract
1 teaspoon organic dried lavender flowers
Materials
mixing bowls
fine mesh strainer
whisk
spray bottle
bath bomb molds
airtight container
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, whisk together baking soda, citric acid, corn starch, and Epsom salt.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine melted coconut oil and lavender essential oil.
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while whisking everything together.
Spray the mixture with witch hazel until it has reached a damp sand-like consistency.
Add a pinch of dried lavender flowers at the bottom of one of the bath bomb mold halves and then tightly fill both halves with your mixture.
Place a bit of loose mixture on top of one of the halves of the mold and then press both mold halves together for several seconds.
Remove the bath bomb from its mold and let it dry overnight.
Transfer to an airtight container and label your lavender bath bombs.
How to Use
Place one lavender bath bomb into a warm bathtub and let all of these amazing ingredients get to work while your worries fizz away. If you don’t have a bathtub, you can also create a foot bath by placing a bath bomb into a bowl of warm water and soaking your feet.
