The History and Benefits of Bath Salts

According to Chinese records, salts have been used in baths to aid healing and restoration of the body dating back to 2700 B.C. In these early records, the medicinal benefit of over 40 different types of salts are mentioned, many of which are still in use today.

Just as the oceans are filled with salt, so are our bodies. With benefits including detoxifying, cleansing, antiseptic and a wealth of natural healing properties, this natural mineral works in foods to dry things out and preserve, but it can also help to hold moisture in the body. In bath soaks, salt works to help us to relax the body and mind. 

Salt has been an important part of trade and commerce for centuries, and was most often used by the early cultures of Asia and Europe. In some areas of the world, salts were actually used as currency.

RENOWNED FOR HEALING

Salts that were traded back in the early days of civilisation were used exclusively for flavouring or preserving foods. However, history shows bath salts were frequently used for their healing properties and were common in medicines and home remedies for curing a variety of conditions, including skin diseases, arthritis, and sore muscles.

Salt was often combined with water to create a brine people would soak in, much like the bath salt soaks people enjoy today. Submerging into a bath filled with warm water and salt is proven to be one of the best ways to restore ourselves after a long day. 

The popularity and healing benefits of salt played a large factor in the establishment of public, communal bath houses. People would often visit these houses to relax and rejuvenate their body, but also to gather and chat with other locals. These relaxing bath houses became so popular, luxury resorts began opening throughout Asia, focused on the restorative properties of bath salts used in water. 

BENEFITS BEYOND RELAXATION

As well as through the centuries, people now enjoy bath salt treatments to reduce muscle tension, melt away stress, and detoxify the body. Bath salts were also used as a way to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, enhance weight loss, and treat cramping and associated symptoms of menstruation and menopause. 

The macro and trace minerals found in salts can be drawn into the bloodstream during a warm bath, which can help to balance out the entire body.

Magnesium chloride in bath salts, is the same now as when the ancient Romans and other civilisations used bath salts. This longstanding mineral is what gives bath salts the power to soothe tired, aching muscles and revive your overall well-being. Bath salts have also been known to aid insomnia, 

The best bath salts add other natural ingredients such as essential oils to maximise results and aid the healing and relaxation. This magic combination works to balance our bodies, cure our internal ailments and nourish our minds. Whether you're seeking softer skin, a great night’s sleep, or to detox—bath salts can play hugely beneficial role within self care routines.