It is said that no two junipers are the same; each twisted trunk is as uniquely identifiable as a person's face. The tree’s structural differences vary based on where they grow, the climatic changes it experiences throughout its life, among other variables. Some turn toward other trees, and some turn away. Some have split trunks and grow up and around boulders, while others twist so severely that they turn back down on themselves and creep along the ground. They remind me of a fingerprint whorl with endless unique loops and personalities.
As captivating as juniper is to look at, it is also a remarkable plant with many wellness-supporting qualities. Juniper's cleansing and tonic nature makes it great for a host of internal and external applications, but one of my favorites is to use it as an aromatic bath soak.
Similar to cilantro, the smell of juniper can be divisive for some. To me, it smells like a delightful mix of campfire, smoke, incense, resin, and winter frost. Its aromatics are a key to understanding some of its qualities and what drew me to create this bath soak recipe in the first place. This recipe was made to promote calm and relaxation, release muscle tension, and promote restorative sleep.
Cleansing Juniper Bath Fizzy Recipe
Makes about 7 cups.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Epsom salt
- 2 cups baking soda
- 1 cup citric acid
- 1 cup organic juniper berries, crushed with a mortar and pestle
- 1/4 cup organic grapefruit peel
- 1/4 cup organic apricot kernel oil
- 20 drops of organic lemongrass or organic tangerine essential oil
Directions
- First, mix the Epsom salt, baking soda, and citric acid together.
- Add in the crushed juniper and grapefruit peel.
- Drizzle in the apricot oil next, mixing with a spoon or your hands until well blended.
- Drop in the essential oil and stir a few times to mix.
- Transfer the bath salts to a storage container of your choice. In general, glass is preferred for storing herbal preparations, but around the bathtub, plastic may be a good choice.
To Use: Add 1 cup to the tub as it's filling and enjoy.
*This blog is excerpted and adapted from Medicine from the Trees© written by Dr. JJ Pursell, published by Rizzoli International Publications, Inc.
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