Yoni steaming is a traditional practice, with roots in Central and South American and African cultures, where a woman sits over a pot of steaming herbal water to expose the vulva and vagina to the steam. A yoni steaming chair is a specially designed seat with a hole in the center that allows you to sit comfortably while the steam rises. This article explains how to set up and use a yoni steaming chair safely at home, including what herbs to use, how long to steam, and important precautions.
Ingredients
- 3–4 cups (710–950 ml) filtered water
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) dried mugwort (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) dried rosemary (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) dried calendula petals
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) dried lavender buds
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried ginger powder (or a 1-inch piece fresh, sliced)
- Optional: 2–3 drops of essential oil (lavender or clary sage) – ensure it is high-quality and skin-safe
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with the water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, add all the dried herbs (mugwort, rosemary, calendula, lavender, and ginger). Stir briefly, then reduce the heat to low and let the herbs simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the water.
- After 10 minutes, turn off the heat. If using essential oils, add them now and stir.
- Carefully pour the hot herbal infusion into a heatproof bowl or basin that fits under your yoni steaming chair. The liquid should be hot but not boiling – you should see steam rising, but it should not be so hot that it could burn your skin. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to cool slightly if needed.
- Place the bowl under the chair’s opening. Make sure the chair is on a stable, heatproof surface.
- Position yourself on the chair, wearing a loose skirt or no underwear, so that your vulva is directly over the steam. Keep your legs apart enough to allow steam to reach the area, but not so wide that you feel strain.
- Steam for 10 to 20 minutes. Start with 10 minutes if you are new to yoni steaming. The steam should feel warm and comfortable, not painfully hot. If it feels too hot, remove the bowl and let the water cool further, or add a little cold water.
- When done, carefully get up and pat the area dry with a clean towel. Rest for at least 15 minutes before engaging in any strenuous activity.
Tips
- Herb substitutions: If you cannot find mugwort, you can use yarrow or chamomile. Rosemary can be replaced with sage. Calendula is often substituted with plantain leaf. These changes will alter the aromatic profile but the steam will still be soothing.
- Temperature control: Always test the steam with your inner wrist before sitting. The steam should feel like a warm, gentle mist, not like a sauna. If it is too hot, wait a few minutes or add cold water.
- Common mistake: Do not steam for longer than 30 minutes. Over-steaming can cause excessive dryness or irritation. Also, never let the water touch your skin directly – the steam is what you want, not the hot liquid.
- Cleanliness: Always wash the chair and bowl thoroughly after each use with hot, soapy water. This prevents bacterial growth and maintains hygiene.
Serving Suggestions
Yoni steaming is not a dish to serve, but rather a personal wellness ritual. It is often done in a calm, quiet space. Many people choose to steam in the evening so they can rest afterward. You might play soft music, light a candle, and have a warm blanket nearby. After steaming, drink a glass of water to stay hydrated.
Variations
- Postpartum blend: Use 1 tablespoon each of comfrey leaf, plantain leaf, and lavender. This blend is traditionally used after childbirth, but always consult a healthcare provider first.
- Menstrual support blend: Use 1 tablespoon of ginger, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon chips, and 1 tablespoon of rose petals. This is a warming blend that some women find comforting during their period.
- Simple steam: If you don’t have all the herbs, just use 2 tablespoons of dried rosemary or thyme. These are common kitchen herbs with gentle, cleansing properties.
Storage and Reheating
You should not store a used herbal infusion for later use. The steam is meant to be used fresh, and the herbs will lose their potency and may harbor bacteria if kept. If you have leftover dried herbs, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. The prepared infusion cannot be reheated safely – always make a fresh batch for each session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is yoni steaming safe for everyone? No. Yoni steaming is not recommended for pregnant women or those who might be pregnant, as it can raise core body temperature and may affect the fetus. It is also not advised for women with certain medical conditions like uterine prolapse, or during heavy menstrual bleeding. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new wellness practice.
How often should I steam? Many practitioners suggest steaming once or twice a month, ideally after your menstrual cycle ends. Over-steaming can disrupt the natural vaginal flora and cause dryness. Listen to your body – if you feel any discomfort, stop and reduce frequency.
Can I use a regular chair instead of a yoni chair? You can, but it is not safe. A regular chair does not have the proper opening, so you would have to squat or sit awkwardly, which increases the risk of burns. A yoni chair is designed to hold the bowl securely and position your body correctly. If you don’t have a yoni chair, you can use a sturdy stool with a large hole cut out, but ensure it is smooth and stable.
What if the steam is too hot? Stop immediately. Remove the bowl from under the chair and let the liquid cool for 5 minutes. You can also add a cup of cold water to bring the temperature down. Never try to “tough it out� – burns in that area are serious and require medical attention.
Do I need to use all the herbs listed? No, you can use just one or two herbs if that’s what you have. The most important thing is to use herbs that are safe for external use and to avoid any you are allergic to. For example, if you have a ragweed allergy, avoid chamomile.
Can I reuse the herbs for a second steaming? No. The herbs have already released their active compounds into the water. Reusing them will result in a weaker steam and may not be as effective. Always use fresh herbs for each session.
Related
- Chicken Broth Packets: How to Use Them
- Vacuum Sealing Purpose: How It Works & Why
- Steaming Jumbo Eggs: Perfect Hard-Boiled Every Time
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).