There’s nothing better than a relaxing warm bath at the end of a long day, and what better way to enhance that already heavenly experience than with bath bombs. The gentle fizz, swirling colors, fragrant scents, and soothing oils leave your skin feeling smooth — like you’re getting the luxury spa treatment you deserve. But do you know what’s actually in those magical little spheres? Often what makes them smell so intoxicating are various chemicals and perfume oils (which are mildly toxic and potentially harmful to you). But they’re often just labelled as “fragrance”, so you rarely know what is actually soaking into your skin. 

And why pay $9 a pop for a toxic bath bomb? Especially when you can enjoy the same experience (without presenting your body to a potential health hazard) simply by using all-natural DIY bath bombs — ones that you can make in minutes and in the comfort of your own home! I’ve found a great easy-to-make recipe for you, and the base items you’ll really need are Epsom salts, coconut oil, baking soda, and citric acid. Then you can experiment with adding different essential oils to make the perfect healthy bath bomb for yourself, or even as a great gift for a friend. So try out this recipe, and bombs away! Your body (and wallet) will thank you 🙂

A Basic Healthy Bath Bomb Recipe

Ingredients:

• ½ cup Epsom salts
• 2 tbsp. coconut oil 
• 1 cup baking soda
• ½ cup citric acid (this can be found in baking section of a grocery store)
• Olive oil or coconut oil, to oil the muffin tin
• Optional: essential oils

Directions:

1. Prepare a muffin tin with a few drops of olive oil or coconut oil.
2. Combine and mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. Melt coconut oil into a liquid.
4. Slowly mix coconut oil into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. (You might notice the mix begin to fizz as the ingredients combined.)
5. Scoop 2 full tablespoons of the mix and use it to form a sphere. Repeat for the remaining amount of mixture. 
6. Firmly push spheres into each muffin tin. (Make sure there is no overflow, as the mixture will expand as it dries.)
7. Leave the muffin tin in a well-ventilated room until the mixture feels dry upon touch (at least 3 hours, but sometimes up to a day depending on the humidity level of the room). 
8. Once dry, remove from the muffin tin. Store in an airtight container or bag to make sure they don’t absorb moisture from the air.

And it’s as easy as that! So take some time to pamper yourself this evening: grab one of your homemade bombs, turn on your favorite tunes, light up your favorite scented candle, and let your worries wash away ♥ And if this self-care tactic becomes one of those special treats you allow yourself every now and then (bearing in mind that water scarcity remains a global issue), there are definitely ways to spice it up. Using the basic bath bomb recipe above as a base, you can mix and match different essential oils into the liquid blend to create your very own home remedies tailored to your specific state of mind&being —

Cold and Flu Bath Bomb

• Add 4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
• Add 2 drops of peppermint essential oil

Eucalyptus contains eucalyptol and alpha terpineol oils that increase respiratory function and promote easy breathing. Peppermint is calming to your digestive system, quiets nausea and reduces stomach aches, but it will also do a great job opening up your nasal passages. So Inhale those fumes and feel your sinuses and respiratory system open up!

Energizer Bath Bomb

• Add 4 drops of grapefruit essential oil
• Add 2 drops of lemon essential oil

Grapefruit oil is both invigorating and energizing. It is frequently used to support the liver and gallbladder. It also purifies, cleanses and will promote balance metabolism. Lemon oil will purify the air — it is stimulating, energizing and helps to protect against seasonal flu bugs.

Soothe the Day Away Bath Bomb

• Add 4 drops of lavender essential oil
• Add 2 drops of frankincense essential oil

Lavender is noted for its calming properties, it can calm down skin irritations and can soothe any tension that comes from muscles or the mind. The Romans and Egyptians used lavender oil even in ancient times for bathing and relaxation. Frankincense promotes immunity and cellular health. It is also anti-inflammatory and can evoke feelings of peace, relaxation and well-being.

Pro tip: Use an additional few extra drops of lavender essential oil on the bottom of each foot before getting into bed for the most peaceful rest 😉