Detox and Relax Bath Recipe

Sometimes, there is nothing better than an old-fashioned remedy. One of my favorites is the Epsom Salt bath: excellent for soothing sore muscles, discharging stress, and recreating a feeling of well being and balance.

Epsom salts contain magnesium sulfate. Magnesium is one of the most needed minerals and is often lost during fever or under stressful circumstances. Lack of magnesium can cause many problems, one of which is muscle pain and spasms - which include the muscles of internal organs as well as skeletal muscles. An Epsom Salt Bath is a very effective and inexpensive way to both replenish lost magnesium and rejuvenate from a stressful day.

Detox and Relax Bath Recipe
Add to bath water that is as hot as you can comfortably withstand for 20-40 minutes:

• 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salts
• 1 cup of unrefined sea salt
• 1/2 to 1 cup of baking soda
• 8 drops, max, of your favorite essential oils mixed in milk or honey
  
• To avoid discomfort or headache, drink plain or lemon water during and after
  
• To soften skin, rub in 1 tablespoon of olive oil the last 5 minutes of your soak
  
• This is a great time to read inspiring, heart-happy material.

Afterwards, rinse off and wrap yourself in a warm blanket or robe and lay down to rest for 10 to 20 minutes.
May be used 3-4 times a week when under high stress or illness or weekly for general health and relaxation.

ADVISORY 

• If you are pregnant or have health concerns, check with your medical practitioner to be sure this bath is right for you.
• If you have low blood pressure, relaxing can lower it further, so consider cooling your forehead with a frozen headband soaked in your favorite essential oils, or reducing the water temperature a little.
• If you have high blood pressure, omit the baking soda.

ESSENTIAL OIL IDEAS

• Juniper - antiseptic, warming & stimulating, lymphatic decongestant
• Cypress - source of solace, astringent, blood regulator
• Lavender - anti-inflammatory, cooling, soothes the heart
• Eucalyptus - reduces mucous, fever reducing, great for the lungs
• Peppermint - 2 drops maximum, adults only, do not use if epilepsy, high fever or heart disease - reduces pain, brain stimulant, clears mucous, stimulates hunger

ESSENTIAL OILS ADVISORY
The following essential oils are photo toxic: Protect your skin from the sun for at least 12 hours after using these oils:

• Lemon - 2 drops maximum, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, calming
• Bergamot - antibacterial, antidepressant, calming
• Grapefruit - digestive stimulant, lymphatic decongestant, reviving

Originally published 2003.