Benefits of CBD and Epsom Salt Baths

Perhaps there’s no better solution than soaking in warm water after a long day. Many of us can testify to the relaxing benefits of unwinding with a hot bath

Most ancient cultures have long believed in the healing effects of water. Similar to mindfulness, the Japanese practice of engaging in public baths known as “sento” is used as a way of cleansing both the body and the mind. While we don’t have public baths in the States, we may be able to get the benefits in the privacy of our own homes. In fact, in a modern Japanese home, this is known as “furo.”

That’s right, your own bathtub may be key to literally washing your pain away.

A warm bath can also improve breathing Trusted Source. The temperature of the water and pressure on your chest increases your lung capacity and oxygen intake. A growing body of research has shown that passive heating, like spending time in a sauna, can improve blood sugar control Trusted Source, and even help lower your blood pressure Trusted Source.

In one eye opening study, researchers collected data from 14 participants and found that soaking in an hour long hot bath burned as many calories (around 140) as a 30-minute walk. This is because the warm water makes your heart beat faster, giving it a healthy work out. They also found positive anti-inflammatory and blood sugar responses which can protect against illness and infection.

CBD Baths

Research suggests that CBD oil can moisturize the skin, which is why some manufacturers use it as an ingredient in bath bombs and salts.

Additionally, a 2014 study found CBD oil can have a positive impact on sebocytes. These are cells that create sebum, which can cause pimples.

A 2016 review of the cannabis plant also highlights its antibacterial and antifungal effects. This may help to reduce infections on the skin.

Therefore, bathing with a CBD bath bomb or bath salts may help reduce pimples on a person’s body.

A systematic review found that when a person inhales CBD, it might reduce their fear response. This implies that CBD might have some relaxation properties. As such, using a CBD bath bomb or bath salts may lead to a relaxing experience.

Epsom salt bath

Epsom salt is also different from fancy bath crystals. They may not be made from the same chemicals. Plus they often have oils, colors, and perfumes to relax you and soften your skin.

How Does It Work?

In water, it breaks down into magnesium and sulfate. The theory is that when you soak in an Epsom salt bath, these get into your body through your skin. That hasn't been proven, but just soaking in warm water can help relax muscles and loosen stiff joints.

Reduce stress

Healthy magnesium levels can boost brain neurotransmitters that are responsible for inducing sleep and reducing stress. Magnesium may also promote melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone.

People feeling stressed and overwhelmed may benefit from taking an Epsom salt bath. Some research has found that people who are suffering from mental and physical stress benefit when their magnesium levels are managed. While the study looked at oral supplements, Epsom salt could have a similar effect.

Taking a warm bath can also help a person relax by allowing them to release muscle tension and recuperate after a long day.

Promote foot health

Epsom salt may help treat athlete’s foot and ingrown toenail infections. A person can bathe in a tub with Epsom salt water or soak feet in warm water and Epsom salt to help feet heal faster and relieve itching.

Soaking the feet in Epsom salts may also help reduce foot odor.

Draw out splinters

Splinters can be difficult to remove without pushing them further into the skin. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath for a few minutes can reduce inflammation in the affected area, soften the splinter, and make it easier to remove.

While there are plenty of folk remedy claims, there aren't a lot of studies to back them up. Taking this type of bath probably won't hurt you, but if you have health concerns, check with your doctor first.