Baby Herbal Bath Soak

A bath ritual not only provides cleansing and care for a baby, but also deep relaxation and well-being! Newborns especially feel very comfortable in warm water, as it reminds them of the protected time in the womb.

Nowadays many bath products are marketed for babies. However, on the ingredient list, you will find additives that are not always necessary, safe, or recommended for sensitive skin. A more rewarding alternative is homemade bath additions made from natural ingredients. Newborns get cleaned best with pure water, so soaps are not necessary either, but herbs and moisturizing, nourishing ingredients can be very beneficial. 

Chamomile: As a vulnerary and anti-inflammatory herb, chamomile has a long history of use for skin irritations such as rashes, abrasions, insect bites, and poorly healing wounds (Chevallier, 2007). Baths with this herb are popular for babies because of their gentle and soothing effect. 

Furthermore, chamomile works as a nervine. The inhalation of some volatile oils (e.g., apigenin) is responsible for the gentle sedative effect, as these bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the central nervous system (Romm, 2017). 

Lavender: Similar to chamomile, lavender is great for the skin and nervous system. Its beneficial actions are also attributed primarily to its volatile oils, which are responsible for its lovely aroma. Lavender has long been used for cleansing purposes. The name originates from the Latin word lavare, “to wash,” since the Romans used it to scent and enrich their baths. Simply inhaling the scent of lavender can calm and relax an anxious mind (Cavanagh & Wilkinson, 2002; McIntyre, 1996)

Oats: Oats are a great choice for baby skincare. Naturally hydrating to the skin, they release milky emollients and include anti-inflammatory properties. Both of these can especially soothe dry and eczema-prone skin as well as cradle cap. The soothing mucilage, which is created from ground oats combined with water, provides a moistening, protective, occlusive layer that improves the barrier function of the skin and holds moisture (Kurtz & Wallo, 2007; Reynertson et al., 2015; Romm, 2003).

Salts: Salts, such as sea salt, contain a range of minerals and trace minerals that get absorbed through the skin and therefore are great to use as a bath soak. They are a perfect bath ingredient for irritated skin.