Description
Epsom Bath Salts
An Epsom salt detox is a warm bath with Epsom salt that may help improve the bodyâs natural detoxification process and promote healing.
The two main ingredients of Epsom salt are magnesium and sulfate. It is believed the combination of both ingredients stimulates detoxification pathways.
Magnesium is a natural substance that aids a variety of bodily functions, including the removal of toxins. Sulfate can strengthen the walls of the digestive tract and make releasing toxins easier.
Healthy magnesium levels can boost brain neurotransmitters that are responsible for inducing sleep and reducing stress. Magnesium may also promote melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone.
People feeling stressed and overwhelmed may benefit from taking an Epsom salt bath. Some research has found Trusted Source that people who are suffering from mental and physical stress benefit when their magnesium levels are managed. While the study looked at oral supplements, Epsom salt could have a similar effect.
Taking a warm bath can also help a person relax by allowing them to release muscle tension and recuperate after a long day.
o take an Epsom salt bath, add 2 cups of Epsom salt when running a bath in a standard size bathtub. The salt will quickly dissolve if put under running water.
The water should be warm but not too hot. Temperatures between 92°F and 100°F (33°C and 37°C) are ideal.
A person can then soak in the bath for 12 to 20 minutes, or longer if desired, and they should avoid using soap.
People should rest for at least 1 hour after a detox bath or take a bath at bedtime so that they can go to sleep afterward.
Other things that can be added to an Epsom salt bath to enhance its effects include:
- *lavender
- *vanilla
- *bergamot
- *frankincense
- *eucalyptus
Essential oil needs to be diluted before being applied to skin, and so it is best to dilute it with a carrier oil before bathing.
A mixture of 3 to 5 drops of essential oil per ½ to 1 ounce of carrier oil is usual. Carrier oils can be sweet almond oil, coconut oil, or even olive oil. A little essential oil goes a long way, so it is important to add only a few drops of the diluted oil into a full bath.
