Learn the seven simple and easy detox baths to support the body in eliminating toxins naturally. These are great for everyone especially those on the GAPS diet.
Detox baths are one method of gently assisting the body to eliminate toxins through the skin. Baths can also assist the body to absorb useful minerals through the skin, such as magnesium, which is crucial to many important bodily functions. Detox baths are an important part of the GAPS diet, and Dr Natasha recommends them daily to help take the load off your liver, relax you, and set you up for a goodnight’s sleep (Gut and Physiology Syndrome p353).
Learn more about the benefits of detox baths in this post.

How to Take a Detox Bath
Filter your water to remove chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals often found in city water. Use a bath ball or consider whole-house filtration.
Plan your bath intensity – product to water concentration, water temperature, and time in the bath can all impact the intensity of the detox you will experience. The impact will be different for everyon,e and we are all bio-individual with our own needs.
Minimise a die-off reaction by starting slow and work your way up. The amount of product to add to your bath depends on your starting symptoms. For some, they may need to start at 1 tablespoon, for others, 1 cup.

7 Types of Detox Baths
- Epsom salts (magnesium sulphate) – a great way to get in additional magnesium, it’s essential for so many body functions. It is also great at relaxing the body, especially as a part of your nighttime routine before bed.
- Apple cider vinegar – its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and acidifying, which means it has a beneficial effect on the pH of the skin and may help with eczema and can inhibit candida and other types of bacteria.
- Seaweed powder – it’s high in iodine and great for thyroid support; it also has antiseptic properties and is good for eczema, psoriasis, and acne. This is definitely the messiest ingredient to add!
- Natural/ Sea salt – high in minerals, similar benefits to Epsom salt, but with a wider spectrum of minerals.
- Bicarb soda (sodium bicarbonate) – has an alkalizing effect upon the skin and is soothing to itchy skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis, yeast infections, and other fungal infections, diaper rash, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Magnesium Flakes (magnesium chloride) – Increases magnesium levels in the body and supports the regulation of the nervous system and stress response. It also supports sleep and detoxification.
- Bentonite Clay – Support detoxification by drawing out toxins, heavy metals, free radicals, and impurities from the skin.
If your healing has plateaued and you’re not consistently taking detox baths, consider making them a regular part of your routine to help support your progress. Incorporating more frequently, even daily, does require some adjustment. Try habit stacking with another activity to prioritise your time best. Don’t have a bath, try a foot bath instead!
Resources
Dr Natasha Campbell-McBride
- Gut and Psychology Syndrome (Yellow Book)
- Gut and Physiology Syndrome (Blue Book)
Monica Corrado (GAPS Chef)
How do you like to take a detox bath? Let us know in the comments below.
GAPS™ and Gut and Psychology Syndrome™ are the trademark and copyright of Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride.
The information in this blog post is my personal experience and for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease; and does not consider your individual situation. If you have medical questions, please consult with a qualified medical practitioner.

I’m Rebecca, a Certified GAPS & Nutrition Coach, and I help busy mums restore their family’s gut health—one kitchen, one meal at a time. I share practical tips, simple recipes, and ways to create lasting change.
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I am laying in the bath as I read this! Thank you for this valuable information – I can’t wait to try out these tips for my next bath!