Ginger is an amazing root that has been used since ancient times for its medicinal — and tasty — qualities. Cooking it, pickling it, and using it in teas and tinctures are just a few ways to take advantage of its many healthy properties. But it’s also a great ingredient in skin and body care, because it is both soothing and stimulating.

One time-tested way to use ginger is in a bath — or if you don’t have time (or a tub), in a foot bath. This was recommended to me by my acupuncturist when I was having some muscle pain a while ago. He said that soaking my feet in a bath with fresh ginger every night would help my body to reduce inflammation and to stimulate circulation for healing. Later, I learned that soaking in a ginger bath is an ancient ritual, a great way to sweat a LOT and restore balance to body, mind, and spirit.

Whether your body can actually “sweat out toxins” is debatable, but there is no doubt that it feels fantastic! In my personal experience, deep sweats have been a great way to stave off colds, to recharge during cold and rainy winters, and sleep soundly through the night.

Adding ginger to your bath is an easy way to take advantage of ginger’s potent effects. Some benefits of ginger include:

• Reduces inflammation throughout the body
• Reduces arthritis pain, and other joint and muscle pain
• Encourages healthy blood circulation
• Relieves gas and bloating
• Calms nausea and halts diarrhea
• Relieves menstrual cramps

It’s even said that King Henry VIII of England took ginger as protection against the plague! 

A ginger bath can be a deeply relaxing introduction to the icy chills of late fall and winter. It can also be the perfect getaway from the stressful rush and hustle of the holiday season. Keep this one in mind as we move into the holidaze and your body, mind, and spirit will thank you!

Stuff to Know:

• This bath is best taken at night or at a time when you can go to sleep right afterward.
• Do not take a ginger bath if you have a fever, high blood pressure, a heart condition, are pregnant, or are prone to seizures or strokes.
• Be sure to hydrate well before, during, and after your bath.
• This post is not intended as medical advice. If you’re feeling ill, please consult a medical professional.

Ginger Bath to Sweat It Out

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup fresh, grated ginger OR
• 1 Tbsp. powdered ginger

To use:

1. Add the ginger to a bathtub full of warm water and stir to distribute.
2. Soak for 20–40 minutes.
3. Allow yourself to relax deeply.
4. When you get out of the tub, be sure to drink water. Dry yourself completely and wrap yourself up in a towel or robe. Go to sleep. Sweet (sweat?) dreams!

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Questions for readers:

Do you use ginger in your beauty or bath treatments?

Do you ever use ginger in your cooking or baking?