We are bombarded by toxins and chemicals on all fronts! They are in our drinking water, our cleaning products, our health and beauty aids, and even in the materials used to build and furnish our homes! We can avoid as many toxins as possible by eating organically, avoiding unnecessary drugs, and doing a thorough “purge” in our household, which I’ll be writing about soon.

However, what about the damage that has already been done? What about the toxins lurking in our bodies, wreaking havoc on our health? Why not try a detox bath – one that is aromatically gentle, as well as effective?

The following charcoal/epsom salts-powered bath soak is a great natural way to get started clearing our systems of the toxins that attack our immune systems, put us at risk for disease, and zap our energy. The following bath includes the powerful, relaxing scents of therapeutic grade essential oils and natural ingredients that are known for their detox qualities.

This recipe can also be used as a foot soak, but feel free to double the essential oils for a more intense therapeutic experience.

How to Do a Detox Bath

1. Add 2 C. of my Detox Rocks recipe blend (below) to a standard tub full of warm/hot water. Obviously, if you have a large tub, you’ll need a little more.

2. I recommend hot water, since many toxins are released when you sweat.

3. If you don’t have filtered water, add 1 cup of baking soda as this can help to neutralize chemicals like chlorine, and may help mineral absorption.

4. Immerse yourself in the water, all the way up to your neck. You want as much of your body underwater as you can. Close your eyes, do some deep breathing exercises, relax, and soak for at least 10 minutes (no more than 20).

5. When you’re finished, rinse off quickly in room temperature water (don’t use cold water, as that can be too shocking to your system!).

6. Make sure you’re using all-natural soaps, shampoos, and lotions, especially if you use any of it during a warm bath. Your pores are open and will more easily absorb what’s in the water, good or bad. I recommend Young Living’s Charcoal Bar Soap, Sensation Lotion, and any of Young Living’s shampoos and conditioners.

Charcoal Bar Soap – Made with the powerful absorption properties of activated charcoal, Young Living’s Charcoal Bar Soap pulls out dirt and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Its

naturally derived formula includes powerful skin-cleaning agents, moisturizing ingredients, and the bright, fresh scent of our Orange Blossom essential oil blend. Use it for your body to cleanse and deodorize, or add it to your skin care routine. The unique benefits of charcoal soap make it an especially suitable face soap for combination, oily, or acne-prone skin to help maintain a clear, healthy-looking complexion.

7. Once dry, apply Young Living’s Sensation or Lavender Hand and Body Lotion, or an organic, non-GMO coconut oil.

8. Do not eat immediately before or after taking a detox bath.

9. Drink plenty of pure Spring water before and after your bath. You may also choose to drink my refreshing “Detox on the Rocks” (recipe further down).

10. Allow time after your bath to rest and rejuvenate. Have a warm fluffy robe ready ahead of time!

‘Detox Rocks’ Bath Soak

• 1 C. of “Rocks” (Epsom Salts) – This is said to draw out toxins. It also adds magnesium to your system, which helps you to relax and to relieve sore muscles
• 2 T. Activated Charcoal Powder (Available in most health food stores)
• 1/3 C. Baking Soda – Helps to regulate the acidity in the water and softens skin
• 1/2 tsp. Vitamin C powder or ground Young Living Super C – Vitamin C as ascorbic acid has long been known to neutralize chloramine and chlorine in water. The reaction is quick and just one gram of ascorbic acid will neutralize 100 gallons of tap water (source).
• 10 drops of your favorite Young Living Essential Oil single or blend – Recommended: Juniper, Rosemary, Patchouli, Helichrysum, Lavender, Geranium, Sandalwood, Cypress, Neroli, Fennel, Melissa, Celery Seed, or Laurus Nobilis.
• 1 C. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar – This is optional and may affect the way your bath smells (which is a big deal to me); however, if you’re looking for an extra boost, you’ll want to add this to your bath too. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar (Bragg’s is a good brand)  may help to stimulate circulation and detox the liver.

Mix all ingredients (except vinegar) together in a glass or clay bowl (mason jars work great!). Dispense into bath by running under hot water into tub. Soak for 20 minutes. Drink plenty of fresh water (or Detox on the Rocks below) during and after your bath!

Detox on the Rocks

– 20 oz. of pure Spring water (ice is optional)
– 1/4 cup coarsely chopped parsley
-1/4 cup celery
– 3-4 slices of cucumber
– several slices of fresh organic lemon or limes
– 3 drops YL Lemon or Grapefruit Vitality Oils*
– A handful of fresh mint leaves

*To help disperse the essential oils evenly in your drink, you could mix them with 1/2 – 1 tsp. raw, local honey or Young Living’s Vitality drops first, before adding to the water.

NOTE: By the way, I am not a medical professional – just a mom who loves exploring the natural lifestyle. Please know that any information provided on The Common Scents Mom is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to prescribe, diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor replace current medical treatment or drugs prescribed by your healthcare professional. The statements made have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is your responsibility to educate yourself and address any health or medical needs you may have with your physician. Please seek professional help when needed.