This treatment was first used in Bali by rice farmers to treat tired legs at the end of a long day. Today, spas apply hand-crushed herbs and spices to the entire body to stimulate circulation and warm the skin. Makes 4 ounces (1 treatment).
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon rice powder
• 1 to 2 teaspoons water
1. Mix ground spices and rice powder, add water and stir until you have a smooth paste. (Add a bit more water if mixture is too dry.)
2. To use: Rub the rich spice mixture all over body; wrap in a warm bath towel or sheet. Relax for 5 to 10 minutes and feel the heat of the dried spices. Rub off mixture with cotton washcloth and rinse well with warm water. Moisturize using a rich body cream or coconut oil.
Janice Cox and her daughter, Lauren Cox, recently co-authored a book, EcoBeauty: Scrubs, Rubs, Masks, and Bath Bombs for You and Your Friends (Ten Speed Press, 2009). Find it at www.herbcompanion.com/shopping or order by phone.
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Body & Soul: Exotic Spa Treatments
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