Like the Taurus I am, I’m a big fan of long, luxurious baths. Making my own DIY infused bath salts with essential oils is one of the ways I make my baths as relaxing as possible.
I love making my own bath salts from Epsom salt and essential oils because I can customize their scent based on my needs. And it’s far more inexpensive (and often more natural) than buying premade bath salts!
Read on to learn how to make your own DIY infused bath salts, plus the benefits of using Epsom salt in the bath!
(The contents of this post do not constitute medical advice. This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read our disclaimer.)
What Is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, is a natural mineral compound that has been used for centuries to ease aches and pains, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
Epsom salt is different from table salt. Although some people dissolve Epsom salt in water and drink it to help with issues like constipation, its taste would make it unpleasant to add to food.
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Epsom salt is easy to find at grocery stores, drug stores, or online. Dissolving Epsom salt in a bath is probably its most common use.
You can find several benefits from making DIY infused bath salts with Epsom salt for both your body and mind. Keep reading to learn more about how my bath salts recipe can help you!
Benefits of Using Epsom Salt in the Bath
The majority of Epsom salt’s benefits come from the mineral magnesium. Many people do not get enough magnesium, and pregnant women in particular tend to be deficient.
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Here are some of the benefits of using Epsom salt in your baths:
1. Soothes Sore Muscles & Joints
Epsom salt can help to soothe sore muscles and joints. When Epsom salt dissolves in warm water, the magnesium in the salt is absorbed through the skin. This can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
For this reason, many athletes choose to take Epsom salt baths for recovery. It’s also a great option for anyone struggling with muscle or joint pain. Magnesium may also help prevent leg cramps in pregnant women (Goodbye, middle-of-the-night charley horses!). (1)
2. Promotes Relaxation & Reduces Stress
Epsom salt baths can also help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. There is a positive correlation between magnesium and stress reduction. Additionally, magnesium helps regulate the production of serotonin, which is a mood-elevating chemical in the brain. (2)
Magnesium is also connected to better sleep quality and longer sleep. (3)
So if you’re struggling with either stress or poor sleep, soaking in an Epsom salt bath can be a great way to unwind after a long day and promote a sense of calm and wellbeing.
3. Detoxifies the Body
The sulfates in Epsom salt may also be able to “draw out” toxins and heavy metals from the body. This detoxification process can reduce inflammation and help you feel both refreshed and rejuvenated. (4)
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The Best Essential Oils to Use in Your Bath Salts
Now that we know how powerful Epsom salt can be in the bath, let’s chat about how to make them even more beneficial by adding essential oils!
First, I want to share my favorite Epsom salt source with you! I love ordering this 18-pound bag of Epsom salt because it lasts forever (I take a lot of baths and go through a lot of Epsom salt), and the higher volume makes the cost so much lower!
Here are my favorite essential oils to use in DIY infused bath salts:
Lavender essential oil is known for its ability to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. I love to use lavender-infused bath salts when I’m feeling stressed or to help me unwind before bed.
Eucalyptus essential oil is also useful for relaxation and can provide respiratory support. I make a lot of eucalyptus bath salts when I want to open my nasal passages during cold season. I also use eucalyptus bath salts when I want spa vibes during my bath!
Peppermint essential oil can be refreshing and invigorating. I use peppermint-infused bath salts when I’m feeling low and need an extra boost of energy.
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DIY Infused Bath Salts Recipe
Makes: 2 cups of bath salts
You can either divide or multiply this recipe to make your preferred amount of bath salts.
Materials
- 2 cups Epsom salt (I love ordering this giant bag of Epsom salt.)
- 15-20 drops essential oils of your choice
- bowl and spoon
- container with lid
- wooden scoop
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine Epsom salt and essential oils. Stir until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Store your bath salts in an airtight container in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them.
- While you’re running your bath, scoop about 1 cup of bath salts into the bathtub and allow them to dissolve in the water. Enjoy the benefits of Epsom salt and essential oils as you relax in your bath!
What is your favorite essential oil to add to your bath salts? Tell me in the comments!
