A detox bath is a type of therapeutic bath believed to assist in removing toxins from the body. The idea is that certain substances added to bathwater can draw out impurities from the skin and body, promoting relaxation, relieving muscle aches, and improving overall well-being. However, it’s important to note that the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of detox baths in actually removing bodily toxins is limited.
I’m not sure that much out there makes you feel better than a detox bath (which makes complete sense because, well, look at the name).
It’s one of the most comfortable ways to detox your system of all the garbage accumulated in it over time, and (if you add the right essential oil) it makes your skin smell great for hours. If you’ve been looking for an easy way to de-stress, consider taking one (or a few) yourself.
Best ingredients for detox baths
Detox baths generally contain two main ingredients and one or more optional additives. For yours, you’ll want to start with 2-4 cups of Epsom salts and 1-2 cups of baking soda. You’ll get to know your personal preferences the more you do them. Still, I’d start on the lighter side if you’ve never done a detox before – It’s not always the most pleasant process, even if it’s done from a bathtub.
The Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate) is used for its sulfate properties to help cleanse your body of food additives, environmental chemicals, and even some drugs from the liver and intestine. It also helps detoxify any built-up hormones.
Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate): is used for its alkaline properties, which help pull toxic substances faster, can help you de-stress your body further than with just Epsom salts alone, and can help restore your natural pH balance.
I’ve heard (and read) in quite a few different places that hydrogen peroxide can be used instead of baking soda. Still, I certainly wouldn’t recommend it myself since common sense tells me that it will dry out my (and your) skin. It is antibacterial and antiviral, so if you’re sick. If you’ve tried everything else you can think of, and you’re dying for some relief, you might want to give it a shot.
As far as what you can add from there, the options are seemingly endless. Here are just a few popular ones, as well as when you should choose to add them:
Ginger
I wouldn’t recommend using ginger in your detox bath until you’ve got a few of them. Adding ginger to your detox bath turns the heat up tenfold. I mean it – You’ll be sweating buckets for at least an hour after you get out of the bathtub if you add ginger to it. But you’ll feel absolutely amazing afterward. It’s a perfect additive if you suffer from cold and/or flu symptoms.
The recommended dose is ½ cup of freshly grated ginger or a rounded teaspoon of ginger powder. You’ll want to ensure that you have something warm (and absorbent) to wear afterward – The longer you sweat, the more toxins will get out of your body.
Essential Oils
Regardless of your ailment, there’s an essential oil out there to make you feel better – Have trouble sleeping? You’ll want to reach for lavender. Have a headache? Add some chamomile and rosemary to your bathwater.
Feeling depressed? The wonderfully aromatic cedar wood can make you feel like a million bucks! On the other hand, if all you’re looking for is a little pick-me-up, you will want to use peppermint. It might take a little research to figure out exactly all the benefits of each, but you’ll be glad you have once you do.
Ten drops are the going rate but feel free to give or take a couple per your preference.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is a highly absorbent clay that draws heavy metals out of your system (and works as an incredible blackhead remover). We’re exposed to heavy metals daily, and if you still need to do something to remove them from your system thus far, there’s a good chance you’ve got quite the buildup.
Note: Make sure that you get cosmetic-grade clay when purchasing it so that you know it’s safe to use on your skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar
If you’ve been following us, there’s a good chance that you already have a(at least one) bottle of ACV in your house – Why not add it to your detox baths as well? It essentially works the same way ginger does, but not as potent. It’s great for helping relieve any inflammatory body ailments you might have. Add 1-2 cups to your hot bathwater to get the detoxing benefits.
Handy Tips That Make The Perfect Detox Bath
The Longer, The Better
You’ll want to set aside quite a bit of time for your detox bath – At least 40 minutes, but up to an hour (which I usually aim for) will work.
It takes 20 minutes to leech the toxins from your system and 20 minutes for your body to absorb the minerals from the water – The rest is just bonus detox time.
Since you’ll be there for a while, you should bring along some relaxing music or guided meditation to help keep your mind off the time.
Relaxation Is Key
Stress is a toxin that needs to be addressed far more commonly than it is. When you’re soaking in a detox bath, you will want to make the experience as relaxing as possible. Turn the lights off, light some (scented) candles and/or incense, and play whatever music relaxes you – Whatever you need to do to make that hour all about healing yourself.
Bring A Hand Towel
Or washcloth with you in the bath, especially if you’re planning to add ginger or ACV to it – You’ll definitely want something to absorb the sweat that’s sure to be pouring down your face in no time.
And A Glass (Or Two) Of Water
You’ll want to replace some of the water quickly, making its way out of your body. Keep it close enough that you’ll be able to reach it without having to leave your relaxing state and sip on it regularly to avoid dehydration. Remember to keep drinking after you get out of the bath (coconut water is an even better choice).
I strongly advise not eating for about two hours before or after a detox bath to ensure maximum results and avoid getting sick from overheating with a bunch of food in your stomach.
When You’re Finished Your Bath
Consider wrapping yourself in warm clothing and a blanket to help extend the detoxing process.
The warmer you dress, the more you sweat – The more you sweat, the more toxins you’ll get out of your body.
Because we know it’s easier to visualize, we created a nice infographic for the detox baths.
Is It Safe?
While taking detox baths is generally safe, there are a couple of things that might happen during or after the bath that might not be the most comfortable for you. For instance, you might overheat yourself and begin to feel ill because of your raised blood pressure, or you might start to experience flu-like symptoms and/or irritability within a couple of days of your first detox.
If you’re at risk of a heart attack or if you happen to be pregnant, you should consult with your healthcare professional before having a detox bath to make sure that it’s safe for you.
The Benefits
You might experience some unpleasant side effects, but it’s worth it in the long run! Here are just a few benefits of cleansing your body with a detox bath:
- Eliminates the toxic buildup in your system.
- Helps you sweat out excess weight caused by toxic food waste.
- It gives you excess energy – Seriously, it’s better than coffee!
- Can help improve your digestion.
- Can help improve your sleep patterns.
- Boosts your metabolism.
- Increases oxygen-rich blood circulation, which in turn helps give you clearer skin.
And so much more! I could go on and on about how amazing these things make you feel. Still, you’ll only fully believe it once you’ve experienced it yourself. Now that you know exactly what you need, have your first detox bath, and then come back and let us know how it went!
