After Zentherapy bodywork, we tell all clients (and practitioners) that they need to take a detox bath to help eliminate the toxins that have been released during the work. The detox bath consists of 1/3 cup of sea salt, 1/3 cup of epsom salt and 1/3 cup of baking soda into the bath water. ~OR~ One cup of apple cider vineagar poured into the bath.
The best option, we're always told, is to just jump into the ocean if it is nearby. I just read something in The Aromatherapy Companion that seems to make the same point about how sea water is ideal for detoxing:
Thalassotherapy is water therapy with the addition of elements from the sea, mainly seawater and algae. The theories of thalassotherapy are based on the premise that there exists a physiological similarity between the ocean and blood plasma. Our blood does contain certain minerals, notably potassium, sodium, and chlorine, in the same proportions as seawater. It is believed that by warming seawater to body temperature, negative ions are activated; these penetrate the body, bringing the vital elements of the sea to our every organ. The remineralizing benefits of thalassotherapy are considered to be especially effective in restoring elasticity to sagging skin due to aging or sudden weight loss, or following a pregnancy.
The author (Victoria Edwards) recommends adding 2 to 4 ounces (60 to 120 ml) of algae powder to a bath. She says this should help restore healthy skin texture, blood circulation, reduce cellulite and water retention, and soothe sore muscles.

That sounds nice, just what my body needs a good ionic recharge. I definitely will have to look into this thanks for the info - Brian
Posted by: Brian | January 10, 2007 at 12:40 PM
I remember I had twisted my ankle one day while running and I went to the beach and let the ocean water lap over my feet and ankles for a while- and the next day, the swelling had gone down and I was ready to start running again in just a few more days! It was awesome- and the first real evidence for me that salt water can be very beneficial for us!
Posted by: Regina Clare Jane | January 11, 2007 at 04:19 PM
Sounds like you intuitively knew what was good for you. That's really neat Regina.
Posted by: Becky | January 12, 2007 at 09:14 AM
love this! makes me want to hop in the bath right now. I wonder where I can find some alge powder...
Posted by: CherryColoured | January 12, 2007 at 06:34 PM
I notice you don't report Victoria Edwards as saying algae would detox you. I do wonder how effective the use of algae in a bath is for pulling out toxins without having had a massage first.
I can't seem to find any real evidence for it although it is a popular spa treatment.
Posted by: Sandy Halliday | February 20, 2009 at 08:01 AM
I notice you don't report Victoria Edwards as saying algae would detox you. I do wonder how effective the use of algae in a bath is for pulling out toxins without having had a massage first.
I can't seem to find any real evidence for it although it is a popular spa treatment.
Posted by: Sandy Halliday | February 20, 2009 at 08:01 AM