I'm a huge fan of long soaks in the tub and always prefer a bath over a shower (I know - I'm weird!). If you're like me, you might enjoy having some lovely scent in your nightly soak as well! Adding a bath salts mix to a hot bath can really set my mood and help me fully relax after a stressful day at work.
The Main Ingredient
The most important part of any bath salts I create is the Epsom salts. I love including Epsom salts because of the therapeutic benefits they have on my body. Epsom salts may help reduce swelling and heal sore muscles after a workout or injury. They can also help soothe blisters and inflamed skin. Epsom salts totally dissolve when placed in hot water so you aren't sitting on anything in the tub or getting floaties in your hair.
Adding Scent
Essential oils have both a superficial scent purpose as well as an aromatherapy purpose. You can find lists of the aromatherapy benefits online and pick and choose what sounds good to you. I love rose and orange personally but also frequently add lavender or peppermint depending on whether I want more relaxation or want to clear my sinuses.
Dried Roses and Other Flowers
In the summer, roses can be harvested and dried to keep on hand the rest of the year. Instead then of using the essential oil in your bath salts mix, you can add some of your dried roses. Given that essential oils are also relatively expensive, taking advantage of the natural scents you have growing in your yard or neighborhood can save you a lot of money.
Does it clog the drain?
Some people worry that the dried roses (or lavender or calendula or whatever herb you may be using) may clog the bathtub drain. And yes, you do need to be careful about what you are putting into the sewer system! I highly recommend placing a strainer in the drain to catch any bits and pieces leftover, just like you might do for your hair in the shower.
Personally, I have never had my bath salt mixes cause any problems. My hair clogs up my drain way more than the tiny bits of rose petals! But again, if you are worried, you can stick with just Epsom salts and essential oils or place a strainer to cover it up.
Rose Orange Bath Salts
Ingredients:
2 cups Epsom salts
Small handful of dried roses
Small handful of dried lavender
15 drops of essential oil
1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl or directly in a container.
2. Add as much (or as little) to your hot bath!
3. Store any leftover bath salts in an air tight container in the bathroom to avoid moisturize molding the dried roses.