Vapor Relief Bath Salts

One of my New Year’s Resolutions this year was to take more baths. Not a very lofty goal, I know, but that makes it so much easier to accomplish, don’t you think? I try to elevate the experience so it really feels like I’m treating myself to something special. I light a few candles, put on soft music and add bath salts to make the bath smell like a spa.

 Not only do my bath salts smell amazing, they also provide some great therapeutic benefits as well. I love Lavender Bath Salts for relaxing after a hard day and Vapor Relief Bath Salts are just the ticket when you’re feeling a bit less than fabulous or need a little boost of energy.

Good quality bath salts are surprisingly expensive which I don’t understand because the ingredients are cheap. Really cheap. When I was deciding what essential oils would work best in these cold and flu bath salts I simply turned to my recipe for Fabulous Chest Rub. Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Cyprus are heavy hitters when it comes to supporting the body’s respiratory function and assisting with clear breathing. Here’s what’s in Vapor Relief Bath Salts and why:

Epsom Salt–not the kind of salt you eat but actually a mineral compound called magnesium sulfate which most people are deficient in and can be absorbed through the skin. Some of the countless health benefits include relaxing the nervous system, relieving skin problems, soothing back pain and aching limbs, easing muscle strain, treating cuts, soothing congestion, and drawing toxins from the body.
Mineral Salt–contains many beneficial minerals and nutrients that keep your skin smooth and soft. Salts also draws out impurities, pollution, oil and dirt from the skin.
Baking Soda–makes a wonderful spa-like bath for soaking away aches and pains and detoxing. It also cleans the tub and the drain as a bonus!
White Fir EO–supports clear breathing and respiratory function, provides soothing support to sore muscles and joints, helps the body relax.
Eucalyptus EO–assists with clear breathing, soothes tired, sore muscles, supports healthy immune system function, helps lessen stress.
Rosemary EO–reduces sore muscles and joints, helps reduce tension and fatigue, supports healthy digestion.  
Wintergreen EO–promotes healthy respiratory function, soothes achy muscles and joints. 

It really only takes a few minutes to mix up a batch of Vapor Relief Bath Salts. Just put all the ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined and essential oils are evenly distributed. Pour it into an airtight container (I prefer glass) and stick a cute label on it. Although honestly, just opening the lid and smelling it will tell you what it is. And just doing that will make you feel better.

I love the smell of these Vapor Relief Bath Salts so much I sometimes use it in the bath even when I’m totally healthy. Of course I could argue that pampering myself once or twice a week with a luxurious smelling bath filled with all these wonderful ingredients is a big step toward keeping myself healthy both mentally and physically. It certainly can’t hurt. I’m thinking this might be the best New Year’s Resolution ever!

Vapor Relief Bath Salts
3 cups Epsom Salt
3/4 cup mineral salt (table salt will work too)
3/4 cup baking soda
15 drops eucalyptus essential oil
15 drops white fir essential oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
10 drops wintergreen essential oil 

Mix Epsom salt, mineral salt and baking soda in a medium bowl. Add essential oils and mix thoroughly to distribute scent. Pour into a decorative air-tight container. Fill tub with hot water and add 1-2 cups bath salts while water is still running. Bathe often and enjoy.