The ultimate bath is great for sore aching muscles, minor sprains and strains, or to simply unwind after a difficult day.

     This tip is more of a recipe than anything else. Use one whole 4 lb. container (milk carton size) of Epsom salt, half of a 16 oz. container of baking soda and some of your favorite essential oil.

     Fill the bath with the hottest water you can stand. Be careful not to burn yourself. Add your essential oil as the tub is filling. Once the bath is full stir in the Epsom salt. Make sure all of the salt is dissolved into the water. Then add the baking soda. The soda will fizz effervescently as it enters the water. Turn off the lights, light a candle, burn some incense and soak your aches away.

Some ideas for what essential oil to use are:

Eucalyptus – colds, congestion.
Lavender – calming.
Camphor – aching muscles.
Clary Sage – calming.
Patchouli – calming, grounding.
Ginger – warming, congestion.
Arnica – aching muscles.
Geranium – Just smells nice.

     Epsom salt draws toxins and inflammation through the skin out of the body. Baking soda sooths skin irritations and leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft. In general the more salt you use, and the longer you stay in the water, the more fluid will be drawn out through the skin. Be sure to drink plenty of water as this process can leave you dehydrated.

     Sometimes when I am particularly sore or I have injured myself I will use Two boxes of salt. Epsom salt is particularly good for minor strains and sprains.

     People with high blood pressure or diabetes should consult their Physician before using hot baths, hot tubs, saunas and the like. Remember that heat shouldn’t be used on anything which is in the initial stages of the inflammation process and that your doctor should be consulted for any serious injury.