Queen of Self-Care: Ancient Rituals from Cleopatra’s Egypt
When we think of Cleopatra, we envision a powerful queen draped in linen and gold, ruling Egypt with intelligence and allure. But beyond her political legacy, Cleopatra VII is remembered for something much more timeless—her legendary essence and luxurious self-care rituals. From milk baths to natural perfumes, her routines were far ahead of their time, blending beauty with wellness in a way that still inspires us today.
Let’s take a journey down the Nile and uncover the secrets of the original self-care icon.
🛁 1. Milk & Honey Baths
One of Cleopatra’s most famous rituals involved soaking in baths made from donkey’s milk and honey. Rich in lactic acid, milk helped exfoliate and soften the skin, while honey provided hydration and antibacterial properties. Legend has it that Cleopatra kept a herd of over 700 donkeys just for this purpose!
Try this today: Add 1–2 cups of full-fat milk and a few tablespoons of honey to your bath for a soothing, skin-nourishing soak.
🌿 2. Essential Oils & Natural Perfumes
Fragrance was a powerful tool in ancient Egypt, used for both spiritual and sensual purposes. Cleopatra was known to wear custom-blended perfumes made from essential oils like myrrh, frankincense, rose, and lotus. She even reportedly scented the sails of her royal barge so that her arrival could be smelled before it was seen.
Modern tip: Create a DIY body oil by blending a few drops of your favorite essential oils like jojoba or almond oil. (I personally prefer pure moringa oil!)
🧴 3. Clay Masks from the Nile
The mineral-rich mud of the Nile River was used by Egyptians to cleanse and detoxify the skin. It is believed that Cleopatra likely used clay masks to keep her skin radiant and free of impurities.
Today’s version: Use a bentonite or green clay mask once a week to purify and balance oily or acne-prone skin.
💋 4. Natural Makeup & Kohl Eyeliner
Cleopatra’s iconic eye makeup wasn’t just for beauty—it also had medicinal benefits. The black kohl eyeliner she wore contained lead salts, which ancient Egyptians believed protected against eye infections and warded off evil spirits.
Beauty meets history: Go for a smudgy black eyeliner look to channel Cleopatra, or try natural mineral makeup for a modern, safe twist.
🍇 5. Antioxidant-Rich Diet
Cleopatra is said to have eaten plenty of grapes, figs, pomegranates, and other antioxidant-rich fruits that were abundant in Egypt. These foods supported her skin health and overall vitality.
Self-care from the inside out: Incorporate Mediterranean-style fruits into your diet for glowing skin and long-term wellness.
🧘♀️ 6. Mind-Body Balance
Self-care wasn’t only physical for Cleopatra. As a highly educated woman fluent in multiple languages and deeply involved in politics and philosophy, she likely practiced mental self-care as well. She was known for her charisma, intelligence, and presence—qualities nurtured by introspection and ritual.
Modern approach: Practice mindfulness, journaling, or take time to read or study—self-care includes nurturing your mind and spirit.
👑 Final Thoughts: Self-Care Fit for a Queen
Cleopatra’s self-care rituals were more than beauty routines—they were acts of power, presence, and intention. Whether you’re taking a milk bath, sipping pomegranate juice, or simply lighting a candle with frankincense oil, you’re not just pampering yourself—you're honoring an ancient tradition of wellness and self-respect.