Epsom salts are an organic and inexpensive way to reduce tension and stress. The salt’s relaxing properties can be attributed to its high levels of magnesium. Epsom salts are easily available at pharmacies, in the healthcare aisles of supermarkets or in health food shops and can be readily mixed with essential oils, making it a great bath salt. If you have been feeling the need for a “spa” day to relax and de-stress, try some of these DIY bath salt mixtures to pamper yourself.

How it works

Epsom salts contain magnesium sulphate as the salts dissolve in the warm bath water the magnesium sulphate is broken down and magnesium can be topically absorbed into the skin.

Magnesium is vital for the production of energy and magnesium deficiency is implicated in sleep disturbances, anxiety, migraines, fibromyalgia and asthma.

Another way to get added benefit from your Epsom salts is through the use of essential or carrier oils. Essential oils are used to promote relaxation and relief. They provide therapeutic benefits. While carrier oils are used to dilute or extend the usage of essential oils.

DIY Bath Salts

Here are three bath salts recipes for maximum relaxation.

DIY LAVENDER BATH SALTS

Lavender bath salts are prepared using equal proportions of Epsom salt, carrier oil, and lavender essential oils. Lavender essential oils are renowned for their relaxing and healing properties and can be especially beneficial in an Epsom salt bath.

• 2 cups of Epsom salt
• 15-20 drops of lavender essential oils
• 3 tablespoons of your preferred carrier oils (coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil)

Instructions:

1. Combine salt and carrier oil in a medium-sized glass bowl and mix well.
2. Add drops of essential oils and mix thoroughly.
3. Store bath salts in an airtight glass jar.

DIY ROSE MILK BATH SALTS

Rose essential oils promote relaxation and tranquillity. Rose essential oil is ideal for supporting depression and anxiety and is sometimes recommended to help cope with panic and anxiety attacks.

• 1 cup of full-fat powdered milk (or alternative milk)
• ½ cup of Epsom salt
• ¼ cup of dried and crushed rose petals
• Few drops of rose essential oil
• Red food colouring

Instructions:

Combine Epsom salts and milk together. Add a few drops of red food colouring and mix until the salt is pink.
Add a few drops of rose essential oils and rose petals and mix well.
Store bath salts in an airtight glass jar.

DIY ROSEMARY BATH SALTS

Rosemary essential oil is also effective in helping you alleviate anxiety and de-stress.

• 4 ounces of Epsom Salt
• 3 tablespoons of baking soda
• Few drops of food coloring
• Few drops of rosemary essential oils

Instructions:

1. Combine salt and baking soda in a bowl and mix well.
2. Add a few drops of rosemary essential oils and food coloring and mix well.
3. Store bath salts in an airtight glass jar.