Rooted in the ancient healing traditions of Thailand’s Wat Po Temple, these authentic Sa-Wan Herbal Balls are handcrafted in Chiang Mai and certified by the Thai government for authenticity. Each compress is tightly wrapped in unbleached cotton and filled with a centuries-old blend of aromatic Thai herbs known to ease muscular tension, stimulate circulation, and condition the skin. When gently heated, the blend of lemongrass, turmeric, plai, and camphor releases soothing herbal vapors and warmth that transform bodywork into a truly restorative ritual.
Why Your Guests Will Love It
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Creates an immersive Thai spa experience that soothes, warms, and restores balance.
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Delivers the comforting sensation of rhythmic heat blended with exotic herbal aromas.
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Leaves the skin soft, refreshed, and infused with natural botanical vitality.
Why You’ll Love It
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Easy to prepare, professional-grade compresses ideal for massage or body therapies.
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Adds cultural authenticity and storytelling to any service menu.
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Enhances client loyalty by offering the herbal balls as a take-home herbal bath ritual.
Pro Tips
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Heat herbal balls in a dedicated herbal ball steamer or hot towel cabi lined with a damp towel.
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Always test the temperature on your inner forearm before applying.
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After treatment, present the cooled herbal balls to clients in a muslin or organza bag as a spa gift. Recommend using them at home as an herbal tea bath, steeping in warm bathwater for 10–15 minutes.
Usage
Soak each herbal ball in warm water up to the handle for several minutes before heating.
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Steamer Method (Recommended): Place soaked compresses in a professional herbal ball steamer for 10–15 minutes.
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Hot Towel Warmer Method: Wrap each soaked herbal ball in a damp towel and place inside a towel cabi for about 20 minutes.
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Microwave Method (Quick Prep): Soak briefly, wrap in a damp towel, and heat for 2–3 minutes, testing before use.
This set includes two herbal balls, intended to be used in rotation for continuous heat. Keep one compress in the steamer while the other is in use. As the first cools, switch to the freshly heated one to maintain a consistent, soothing temperature throughout the treatment. For focused or shorter services, one compress may be sufficient.
Traditional Thai Techniques
In professional Thai bodywork, herbal balls are applied using gentle compressions, rolling, rocking, and circular pressing motions. The therapist alternates between manual massage and compress application, using the warmth to soften tissue and open energy pathways. Begin at the feet or back and move toward the heart to encourage circulation and balance. Replace cooled compresses with reheated ones as needed.
Caution: Compress may be hot when removed from steamer or warmer.
Ingredients / Ingredient Benefits
Zingiber purpureum (Plai) – Comforts sore muscles and supports circulation.
Curcuma longa (Turmeric) – Brightens and revitalizes skin with antioxidant support.
Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass) – Refreshing and purifying, promotes relaxation and clarity.
Curcuma comosa – Encourages tone and suppleness.
Acorus calamus – Grounding and harmonizing for the senses.
Citrus hystrix DC (Kaffir Lime) – Cleanses, tones, and uplifts mood.
Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor) – Invigorates and relieves tension.
Tamarindus indica (Tamarind) & Acacia concinna (Wild Tamarind) – Naturally soften and smooth skin.
Pogostemon cablin (Patchouli) – Earthy and grounding; supports tranquility.
Orange Peel – Adds brightness and a subtle citrus warmth.
Care & Handling
Allow compresses to cool completely after use. For client takeaway, place in a breathable bag and refrigerate until ready for a bath ritual. To use as an herbal soak, steep in warm bathwater for 10–15 minutes, then discard. Avoid storing damp or unrefrigerated to prevent mold.
Basic Precautions
For external use only. Always test temperature before applying to skin. Avoid broken or irritated areas.
Historical & Interesting Facts
The Thai herbal compress, or Luk Pra Kob, has been practiced for over 400 years and originated with Buddhist monks at Bangkok’s Wat Po Temple. These aromatic poultices combine heat, touch, and plant medicine to balance the body’s energy pathways and encourage deep relaxation. Today, this ritual remains a signature of authentic Thai massage, celebrated for its restorative blend of warmth, aroma, and ancient wisdom.
