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Detoxes can help relax your body and mind, and doing them with simple ingredients at home can be an inexpensive, accessible way to enjoy these benefits. Here are some starter recipes to introduce you to the world of body detox treatments that target the skin, and bring about positive results for your overall health.
Basic Detox Bath
Set aside a full hour for the whole treatment. You need time to prepare, and you’ll spend 40 minutes in the bath. Many people enjoy bathing in the evening before bedtime, as this also allows your body to fully rest and relax afterward. If you do bathe during the daytime, make sure to give yourself enough time to recover and rest afterward.
Yield: 24 ounces, enough for one bath.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Epsom salts
- 1 cup baking soda
- 2 tablespoons ground ginger
Directions
In a clean container, mix together all of the ingredients. Fill your bathtub with water as hot as you can comfortably stand. Pour in your bath mixture, and stir well until the salts are dissolved. Step into the bath and soak for at least 20 minutes; 40 minutes is recommended. Your body will heat up and start sweating within the first few minutes. If you feel too hot, add cool water to your tub. After 40 minutes, slowly and carefully get out of the tub; you may feel weak and drained. Dry your body vigorously with a towel; this helps stimulate your circulatory system, which also aids in releasing toxins.
Simple Detox Sugar Scrub
Sugar scrubs are helpful in detoxing the body because they can stimulate your circulatory system without dehydrating your skin. A gentle rub-down can counteract stress, help rid your body of excess fluid, and energize your whole circulatory system. Make sure to drink plenty of water as you massage, so that the toxins are released naturally.
Yield: 10 ounces.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw sugar
- 1⁄4 cup light oil, such as walnut or almond oil
- 2 to 3 drops essential oil of choice (optional)
Directions
In a medium bowl, mix together all of the ingredients, and stir well. Spoon scrub mixture into a clean container. To use, massage a tablespoon or two all over your body. Focus on pressure points that could be storing stress and toxins, such as the balls of your feet, backs of your legs, lower back, underarms, neck, and hands. You can also use this scrub on your scalp; wash your hair with shampoo afterward to wash out the excess oil.
Detoxing Massage Oil
This is a light, simple herbal oil that’s perfect for massaging into your body, helping to soothe your muscles and boost your circulation. Massage helps you detox your body and get rid of stored toxins that have been making you feel ill. Basil, rosemary, and lavender all help calm your nerves and reduce stress. Yield: 4 ounces.
Ingredients
- 1⁄2 cup light oil (almond, canola, or sunflower)
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried lavender
Directions
Mix together the oil and herbs. Heat gently to warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, but don’t boil or overheat. Cool the mixture completely, and then strain out any solids and pour into a clean bottle with a tight-fitting lid. If you desire a stronger scent, let the herbs sit in the oil for a few days before straining.
Learn more about why detox treatments are good for your overall health in Body Detox Treatments.
Janice Cox is a bestselling author of several DIY beauty books. Her latest book, Beautiful Luffa, is all about growing and using luffa sponge gourds. Learn more at Natural Beauty at Home.
