What is a detox bath?
A bath used to assist the body’s natural detoxification abilities. Mud baths, clay baths and baths using aromatherapy oils and herbs have been used to heal and detoxify our bodies throughout history.
Why should we all indulge in a detox bath ritual?
Toxins are in the air we breathe, the food we eat, the medications we take and in the water we drink. Toxins cause inflammation and compromise out immunity. Detoxification is the body’s way of removing and metabolizing these dangerous compounds. Our liver is always busy detoxifying our body naturally without us even aware of the process. By aiding the liver in the detox process we can prevent it from getting overburdened and tired.
Benefits of Epsom salt detox bath
- Replenishes body’s magnesium* reserves
- Strengthens our immune system
- Relaxes us and improves sleep quality
- Improves digestion
- Enhances our bodies natural detoxification process
- Reduces inflammation and relieves joint pain & muscle cramps
Who should take detox bath?
This is safe for both adults and kids.
If you are pregnant, suffer from heart, kidney or other health issues please consult your health care practitioner.When and how often?
Since the bath relaxes the body it is recommended at night and upto two times a week. Introduce the routine with once week.
How to take a detox bath?
- To warm bath water
- Add Epsom salt -less than 60 lbs- 1/4 cup, 60-100 lbs ½ cup, 100 -120 lbs 1 cup, over 120 lbs 2 cups
- Add baking soda- less than 60 lbs-1/4th cup 60 lbs to 100 lbs -1/2 cup ,over 100 lbs -1 cup
- A few drops of lavender oil or any other essential oil 4 to 10 drops
- Optional add melted coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil (evoo) 1 to 2 table spoons (Epsom bath can be drying for some)
- Immerse yourself in water till the neck and soak for 20-30 minutes
- At the end of the bath rinse the body with lukewarm water only.
Tips:
- Don’t eat immediately before or after the bath
- Drink lots of water after the bath to continue flushing out toxins
- Don’t wash your hair in this bath
- Don’t use any chemical soaps or moisturizers on the skin – during the bath the pores are opened to flush toxins, we don’t want to be blocking them with chemicals. If you feel the need for a moisturizer, use evoo or coconut oil
- Eucalyptus essential oil in a warm bath helps open breathing passages
*Magnesium-an important alkaline mineral. It is better absorbed through the skin. Today’s lifestyle and diets seem to contribute to magnesium deficiency.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or otherwise take the place of the advice of your licensed healthcare practitioner. See your doctor for advice first
Sources: http://www.livestrong.com, http://www.pureinsideout.com, http://www.shutterstock.com/
