We’re exposed to all kinds of chemicals and toxins every day, which can build up in your body over time. An overabundance of these harmful substances can cause a myriad of negative symptoms, including general sluggishness and brain fog like I was experiencing. The potential benefits of “detoxing” from all those environmental toxins include better sleep, lowered stress levels, more energy, better skin… the list goes on and on! This really struck a chord with me, and I decided to give a detox bath a try as soon as possible! (It certainly couldn’t hurt, right? The worst thing that could happen would be that I had taken a nice, hot bath and experienced some rare “down” time.) 🙂

What’s In It?

Many of the detox bath “recipes” I read while researching this topic contained several of the same basic ingredients, and I ended up using a handful of them in my own recipe! So before I show you how to make it, I want to take a quick moment to talk about what goes into it, to give you a better understanding of the benefits this detox bath can provide.

Epsom Salt

Did you know that most people are deficient in magnesium? Magnesium is an essential mineral in the human diet, and plays an important role in nerve and muscle function. Since magnesium can be absorbed through the skin, soaking in a bath with epsom salt is a great way to get more of the magnesium you may be missing out on. Another great thing about Epsom salt is that it has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with sore muscles, bruises, certain kinds of fungal infections, and skin conditions.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar might seem like a strange ingredient to include in a bath soak. But the acid content of ACV can be beneficial for softening and soothing itchy, dry skin. The acid content of ACV can also help restore the pH balance of your skin!

Bentonite Clay

Clay is the star ingredient in my detox bath, in my opinion! When mixed with water, bentonite clay becomes highly absorbent, expanding and drawing in other substances like a sponge. When used as part of a detox bath like this one, the clay helps to draw out impurities and toxins from your skin. It also leaves your skin feeling super soft!

Essential Oils

Essential oils can also be very helpful in eliminating toxins. Geranium essential oil can help reduce inflammation and promote hormonal balance, which is why I included it in my detox bath recipe. But there are plenty of other oils with detoxifying effects, including lavender, sandalwood, and ylangylang oil. Choose your favorite to personalize your own detox bath mixture!

Alright, now that you know a bit more about what goes into my detox bath, it’s time to learn how to make it! 🙂
How To Make The Ultimate Detox Bath

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Epsom salt
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup bentonite clay
• 5-10 drops geranium essential oil (or your essential oil of choice).

How To Use:

Run your bath water as hot as you like. Add your “ingredients” and agitate to dissolve. Soak for 20-40 minutes. Drink a full glass of water when you’re finished.

• Set aside 30 minutes to an hour for your soak. Anything shorter is rushing it, so take the time to relax!
• Leave your phone outside of the bathroom. You’ll be more likely to truly relax if you’re not checking your phone (and it’s a surefire way to keep yourself from dropping your phone in the tub!)
• Create a spa-like environment by dimming the lights, lighting a few candles, and queuing up some relaxing music.
• Place a bath pillow (or a rolled-up towel) behind your head so you can lean back in the bath. We lean forward all day, so it’s a good way to give your back, neck, and shoulders a break!
• Create a weekly bath ritual. Many people like to take a bath on Sunday night to help them recharge before the new work week starts!