Usage rate for herbs?

[MegMatt927]

Lately I've been really interested in the concept of bath teas. This is my first venture out of the soaping world, so I apologize in advance if this is a stupid question...

I've been doing my research on essential oils, and I know most have usage rates of up to 3%. However, if I plan on using a dried herb in a bath tea would that also have a usage rate? I know the herb itself would not be as potent as an essential oil, but I just want to make sure I keep safety in mind and get it right from the start.

Thanks in advance!!

 

[lsg]

I think it would depend on the herb. Lavender can be used as most of a bath tea and so can rose petals. I would go easy on herbs like sage, oregano, pine etc. I think it would pay to research the properties of each herb.

 

[Lindy]

When you are making a bath product you are able to use higher percentages of essential oils. I don't have enough knowledge of herbs but it would seem to me you would be okay. Like lsg said you need to watch your herbs and I would recommend staying away from cinnamon and other spices as they are skin irritants.

 

[bodhi]

Which ones were you considering using?

 

[misskat22]

I was told for bath soaks to put on the label that they should only soak for 20-30 minutes with herbs/oils. I use large tea bags for mine, and they hold about 1/4-1/2 cup depending on the size of the salt I use and the herbs. Epsom salts are recommended at 2C per tub of water, and I've seen herbs recommended at 1/4 of the amount of epsom salt..if that makes sense to you?

 

[MegMatt927]

Bodhi - I was looking into using some of the typical herbs such as lavender and chamomile, but wasn't sure about some other things such as eucalyptus or rosemary.

misskat - i never heard of only soaking for 20-30 minutes, but it makes sense. That's interesting about the herbs at 1/4 amount of epsom salt, I'll have to try that.