The Benefits of Salt Baths
There are numerous benefits for the body and mind from a hot bath with added salts, especially when paired with soothing essential oils. If you’re already a lover of baths, you’ll know that total-body, relaxed feeling you get after a long soak in the tub. But there’s more to it than just bliss, salt baths offer a host of holistic wellness benefits.
Mood Improvement
The act of taking a bath can provide a moment for mindfulness through taking time for yourself to be in the present moment and letting your stress and worries melt away. The warmth of the water helps you to relax and feel safe and comfortable. If your bath salts contain essential oils, there are even more benefits - lavender for example, can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which are associated with feelings of calm, relaxation, and reduced anxiety.
Skin Benefits
Salt baths gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium found in salts help nourish and re-hydrate the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and radiant. Ingredients like jojoba oil and botanical flowers offer additional nourishment and help soothe irritated or dry skin.
Salt has natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Bathing in salt water may help with minor skin infections, athlete’s foot, or other skin issues by gently cleansing and promoting an inhospitable environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive.
Some salts, particularly bicarbonate-rich blends, can help balance your skin’s pH level. This may reduce irritation and help with conditions like eczema or psoriasis, making the skin more resilient and less reactive.
Muscle Recovery
Whether you’re sore from a workout or just a long day on your feet, salt baths can help relieve muscle tension and reduce inflammation. Epsom salt, in particular, is rich in magnesium sulfate, which is known to ease cramps and promote faster muscle recovery. Soaking in warm, mineral-rich water allows these beneficial elements to absorb into your body and provide deep relief.
Joint Pain Relief
Those dealing with arthritis or joint stiffness may find relief in regular salt baths. The warmth combined with minerals may reduce joint inflammation, improve flexibility, and ease discomfort, similar to the benefits seen in hydrotherapy or spa treatments.
Improved Sleep
Magnesium, found in many bath salts, is a natural relaxant. It helps calm the nervous system and regulate melatonin, the sleep hormone. A warm salt bath before bed can help ease your body into rest mode - relaxing tense muscles, soothing the mind, and making it easier to drift into a restful sleep. The addition of essential oils like lavender or sandalwood create an even more serene experience.,
Stress Reduction
A bath is one of the simplest, most comforting ways to unwind. The combination of heat, buoyancy, and mineral salts creates a grounding experience that helps reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), ease mental fatigue, and quiet the chatter of a busy mind. This small act of self-care can make a big difference in how you feel - inside and out.
Heart Health, Circulation & Lymph Flow
There’s growing evidence that regular hot baths can support cardiovascular health. Warm water helps improve blood circulation, may reduce blood pressure, and mimics some of the effects of aerobic exercise by increasing heart rate in a gentle, soothing way. However, if you have low blood pressure, it's wise to consult a healthcare provider before taking long or very hot baths.
The warmth of the bath stimulates blood flow, and the minerals can support the lymphatic system, helping flush out waste more efficiently. This supports overall vitality and energy, especially if you’ve been feeling sluggish or bloated.
Sinus Relief
If you’re suffering from seasonal allergies or a cold, steam from a warm bath can help to clear congested sinuses and open up your airways. Opt for bath salts with essential oils such as eucalyptus, which can help with breathing primarily through its decongestant properties - it aids in opening up airways and assists in breaking down mucus, which will help you breathe a little easier.
Try Our Botanical Bath Teas
Want to soak in all these benefits? Check out our range of Botanical Bath Teas, available online and at our Logie Steading store. Handmade by our founder, Yvonne Duncan-Mandel, each blend is crafted with care using Scottish sea salt, deep-sea salt, jojoba oil, botanical flowers, and essential oils. They leave your mind soothed and your skin sumptuously soft.
SHOP SPÈ BATH TEA
Frequently Asked Questions About Salt Baths
How often should I take a salt bath?
For general relaxation and wellness, 2-3 times a week is great. Or whenever you can squeeze one in if you’re a busy person. If you're using salt baths for muscle recovery or skin conditions, you may benefit from more frequent soaks - but always listen to your body and consult your doctor if you have underlying health concerns.
How long should I stay in a salt bath?
Aim for 15 to 30 minutes. This allows your body time to absorb the minerals without over-drying your skin. Make sure to hydrate before and after your soak!
Can I use regular table salt in the bath?
It’s not recommended. Table salt is processed and lacks the beneficial minerals found in sea salts, Epsom salt, or Himalayan salt. Look for bath-specific salts or blends with added essential oils and botanicals for the best experience.
Are salt baths safe for sensitive skin?
Yes - with a few precautions. Start with a small amount of salt and avoid essential oils that can be irritating (like citrus or strong menthol's). Our Botanical Bath Teas are made with gentle, natural ingredients - perfect for sensitive skin (we recommend lavender if you are sensitive).
Can children take salt baths?
Absolutely! Just reduce the quantity of salt and avoid strong essential oils. A mild soak with calming oils like lavender or chamomile can be soothing for little ones, especially before bedtime.
Do I need to rinse off after a salt bath?
It’s optional. Some people prefer to leave the minerals on their skin, while others rinse with cool water to close their pores.
What’s the best time of day for a salt bath?
Evenings are ideal for most people, especially if you're looking to relax, recover, or sleep better. But a midday soak can also be a rejuvenating reset - especially on a day off or when you need a mental break.
