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, erasing tension, removing toxins 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 spasms - which include the muscles of internal organs, like the heart. An Epsom Salt Bath is a very effective and inexpensive way to replenish many lost minerals, particularly magnesium.

Detox and Relax Bath Recipe  

Add to bath water that is as hot as you can comfortably withstand for 20-40 minutes:
  
1-2 cups of Epsom salts

1 cup of unrefined sea salt

1/2 - 1 cup of baking soda

8 drops, max, of your favorite essential oils mixed in milk or honey (see below) 

• To avoid discomfort or headache, be sure to drink plenty of plain or lemon water during and after the bath, to compensate for fluids lost during the bath.
• To soften skin, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil the last 5 minutes of bath.
• 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 duress or illness or weekly for general 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, consider cooling your forehead with a frozen headband soaked in your favorite essential oils.
• If you have high blood pressure, omit the baking soda

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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 - nerve tonic, brain stimulant, clears mucous

ADVISORY

The following essential oils are phototoxic: 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