Sinus Steam Satchel
Steam Satchel for sinuses
This is the season of our sinuses speaking up. As we experiences these slight shifts in our environment, our body starts to speak up and observe. You might feel dry and tired. The cold air might cause a flare up in arthritis. The mixture of cold and dry can affect your bowel movements. As school starts up, our immune system is exposed to germs that it hasn’t seen before. Around the holidays, I always get sick unfortunately. The worst part, when I get sick it goes right to the sinuses.
It runs in the family to experience chronic sinusitis and many other seasonal symptoms. I remember my mom saying she should have had tubes put in her ears as a child, but never did. One year, as a child, I got really really sick on Halloween. It was in the evening and we were watching Ice Age when I started going in and out of consciousness. It was like every time I got sick, it went straight to my respiratory system and attacked. Even today when I get sick, the first thing I notice is coughing or respiratory symptoms. That’s why I have started to create my own Steam Satchels!
Why it works wonderfully
Thyme - Thyme, when used in steam inhalation, offers benefits for sinus relief. The natural oils contain compounds like thymol that can help reduce inflammation and combat bacteria and in turn promote clear nasal passages. Inhaling thyme loosens mucus, eases congestion, and soothes irritated sinuses to support easier breathing. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties aid in preventing sinus infections, making thyme an effective and natural remedy for respiratory wellness. (Read More about Thyme)
Flowers (Chamomile, Lavender, Rose, Calendula) - Each has their own unique characteristics and uses, but I really like them for the pops of color and bright ‘energy’ they add. There is a beautiful extraction method of flowers through steam which is primarily pulling the aromatic essential oils and hydrosols. This process isolates the concentrated fragrant components responsible for the flowers taste and smell. There is a whole form of complimentary therapy using Flower Essence to balance energy. It is thought that through this process of extraction, the flowers vibrational energy is being preserved. This is not my area of expertise, but it is interesting to learn about!
Other Herbs - Raspberry - soothes sensitive skin, Mullein - helps congestion, Yarrow - soothing and protecting, Sage - cleanses and help circulation, Rosemary - cleansing and rejuvenating, Cornflower - de-congest and lighten, Dandelion - cleanse impurities, Mug wort - improve elasticity and brighten, Peppermint - clearing and uplifting, Oregano - soothe and clarify, Green Tea - Toning.
Essential Oils - Rose, Tea Tree, Bergamot, Frankincense, Rosemary, Peppermint Eucalyptus, Etc. CAUTION when adding essential oils, it is easy to add to much and potentially irritate the respiratory tract (opposite action of what we want).
It is so fun to create your own personalized blend. This practice in itself can be so calming and uplifting. Recently I crafted a fun mix of different blends for my mom. I blended some flowers and warming herbs among refreshing skin loving herbs or Essential oils with the goal of creating a blend for dreary days. Here is Minnesota, the grey skies and missing sun can really affect our mood and function. A dreary day can make anyone feel down, and when we are sad and stress and not nourished we are more susceptible to getting sick. My mom really enjoyed those blends!
Ingredients & Suggestions
Ingredients are chosen with consideration for replacements.
<Herbs & Flowers>
Chamomile, Lavender, Rose Petal, Calendula
Thyme, Oregano, Raspberry, Mullein, Sage, Oregano, Peppermint, Yarrow, Rosemary, Dandelion, Green-Tea, Strawberry Leaf
Pick 1-3 to start and use 1 Tbsp of each
<Essential Oils>
Tea Tree
Lavender
Frankincense
Rose
Bergamot
Eucalyptus
Peppermint
These recipes are meant to be flexible to your needs and preference. Experiment with different ingredients to find the texture, smell, and taste of your liking! Use what you have on hand and experiment to make it your own!
making the SATCHEL
You’ll need:
Dried Herbs and Flowers
Essential Oils (If Using)
Cloth Satchel (Your choice container, I like these so I can throw it in a bath)
Pot & Bowl (Heat Safe)
Instructions
(1) MAKE THE SATCHEL: Add your herbs into your chosen vessel, I like the string muslin satchel.
(2) SETUP: When you decide you would like to do a steam (before your shower or bath is a good time). Simply boil a pot of water (around 4 cups). Remove from heat, let sit for a couple minutes. Pour into your heat-safe bowl.
(3) INGREDIENTS: Add in your ingredients, including 3-5 drops of essential oils.
(4) STEAM: Create a tent by placing a towel or cloth over your head to trap the steam. Sit for 10 minutes and relax. Practice some breathing techniques here and really soak in the scents, but listen to your body and take breaks if needed. I personally find it a bit overwhelming sometimes, so find what is comfortable for you.
(5) RINSE your face with cool water, and follow up with your favorite moisturizer or oil.
* CAUTION: Steam can burn, please be cautious.
A note about THYME
This steam satchel recipe featuring thyme is designed to be flexible and tailored to your needs. Each ingredient is chosen with intention, but you can easily substitute or add herbs to fit what you have on hand. While originally crafted with soothing respiratory relief in mind, this steam satchel serves as a versatile companion. Often, remedies like these are only remembered when symptoms arise, yet making this a regular part of your wellness routine keeps you prepared and calm. Consider creating small satchels for weekly use, medium ones for your travel kit, and larger versions for home comfort or holiday gifts. Find style that works for you, and keep your thyme-infused steam sachets within easy reach to elevate your skincare as needed.
<PAIRING TIPS>
Thyme is a wonderful friend to get to know because he gets along well with others.
Rosemary
Oregano
Basil
Sage
Echinacea
Garlic
Lavender
Nutmeg
Parsley
Other Recipes & Resources
Materia Medica Blank Pages→ [Purchase Here]
Cloth Satchels→ [Purchase]
Sign-Up for ‘Find your Flavor’
Trusted Source for Herbs → [Purchase Here]
Deep Dive into Thyme → [Purchase]
Learn how Thyme… → [Read More]
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