Life is stressful – that's pretty much a given. And it seems like everyone has a solution, some more effective than others. For centuries, people have relaxed in baths, using the waters to sooth jangled nerves. Essential oils aid in relaxation, and scented bath salts take that to the next level by also relieving muscle tightness and pampering your skin.

Experts in aromatherapy swear by lavender, rose, vetiver, chamomile, and frankincense oils for reducing stress and anxiety. Simply dropping the essential oils into your bath water isn't particularly effective and, combined with hot water, it can cause skin irritation. Instead, mix 4-5 drops of essential oil with 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil, like sweet almond, avocado, or coconut oil. Or add a touch of indulgence by mixing 4-5 drops of the oil with a cup of whole milk and adding that to the tub.

Adding Epsom salts to the picture brings even more health benefits, including relieving muscle aches, reducing swelling, and, according to some physicians, detoxing your body and raising the body's magnesium levels. Homemade bath salts are a great way to take advantage of these benefits. Mix your favorite blend and use 1-2 cups in your bath water.

Simple Bath Salts Base

Start with a 2:1 ratio of Epsom salts to baking soda (bicarbonate of soda). To this, you can add your favorite essential oils, a drop or two at a time, along with herbs and even a drop or two of food coloring.

Ginger Body Scrub

Get the benefits before you even get into the bath tub with this scrub. Apply it to your skin before your bath, and then soak away.

Pulse 1 tablespoon fresh ginger and 1/2 cup Epsom salt. Pour the mix into a non-reactive bowl and add 1 tablespoon lemon juice.

Muscle Ache Salts

Mix 2 cups of Epsom salts with 1 cup of baking soda.

Stir together:

  • 10 drops peppermint oil
  • 5 drops each: eucalyptus oil, rose oil, lavender oil, cinnamon oil
  • 2 T dried lavender
  • 1 T rosemary leaves, chopped coarsely

Drop the oil into the dry ingredients, 2-3 drops at a time, mixing thoroughly each time. When all of the oil has been incorporated, stir in the lavender flowers and rosemary leaves.

Refresh and Rejuvenate – Lemon-Rosemary Salts

Mix 2 cups Epsom salt and 1/2 cup baking soda. Add 6-8 drops of lemon oil, then whisk in 3 tablespoons rosemary and 3 tablespoons lemon zest.

NOTE: For best results, don't mix your bath salts in metal bowls, as the oils can cause pitting in the metal.

 

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