Enjoy The Blessing Of Aromatic Japanese Bath Salts

After an intense week at work, there's nothing like the blessing of a soothing bath for relaxation. Especially in the winter, indulging in a hot bath with aromatic salts is a boon for everyone. Japanese bath salts are very popular and available in various shapes and vivid colors. These bath salts are loved by locals and visitors alike. Let's check out some of the Japanese bath salt varieties and learn how to enjoy them.

Japanese Bath Salt Varieties

Japan boasts many onsen (hot springs), which can be enjoyed in every season. There is an old custom of bathing in onsen in order to cure diseases. Hot spring water has good effects on the skin, as a cure for fatigue, as well as improving cardiac or gastrointestinal illnesses.

There is also a belief that taking a bath in onsen is good to drive away bad luck and attain good fortune. Those who cannot make it to the hot springs can replicate the feeling of having a hot bath with minerals by using bath salts. What’s even more exciting is that they come in many flavors, shapes, aromas and sizes. Purchased as souvenirs, they are a perfect way to experience the charm of Japan when one heads back home. They also make great souvenirs for friends and family.

Bath salts can be found on the shelves of drug stores such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi and at supermarkets, but also at 100 shops. Some of the sophisticated varieties can be found only at departments stores or stationery stores such LOFT.

Types of Japanese Bath Salts and Their Benefits

Bath salts come in various sizes, colors and shapes. In fact, there are special toy shaped bath salts for kids as well. Adults can also enjoy a good aromatic bath with these salts. Bath salts shaped like some of the children's favorite foods have won everyone's hearts. There are some which are modeled after a type of candy called Milky which have gained the most attention. Milky bath salts can be strawberry and pineapple scented. They come in a package that looks just like a pack of real Milky candies, and when you take one out and put it in the bath, it fizzles as it melts. Each flavor gives off just the right scent and color.

A type of bath salt that is particularly popular among adults is the "forest" inspired one with a very relaxing aroma, which works well for persons who have poor circulation or a stiff neck. In addition to increasing blood circulation, they relieve suffering from sensitivity to cold temperatures and heal tiredness.

Some unique onsen powders are available at supermarkets and drugstores. These powders exude a wonderful aroma and are said to have wonderful effects on one's body and mind. These bath salts and powders are derived from four of Japan’s famous hot spring areas. Add a packet to ordinary bath water to transform it into your very own fragrant, skin rejuvenating, muscle and joint soothing onsen bath! Some special medicated bath salts are also available that relieve arthritis pain and back pain. Some also improve skin conditions such as eczema, acne, chapped skin and frostbite.

Popular Japanese Bath Salts

Tabi no Yado

Tabi no Yado is bath powder made by Kracie, a famous cosmetics brand of Japan. This bath powder includes specific hot spring agents extracted from Japan's renowned onsen springs, so you can choose the one that reminds you of your favorite Japanese hot spring. A box contains 15 individually wrapped sachets featuring five unique hot spring bath salts. These will color the bath water, keeping the transparency of the water. For best results, fill the tub with warm water and add one envelope of bath powder.

Babb Forest Omotenashi

Babb are bath tablets made by Kao Corporation, which is one of well-known chemical and cosmetic companies in Japan. Babb was first released in 1983 and has been long-selling bath products in Japan.

After dissolving in the water, these tablets release their effects, increasing blood circulation and relieving fatigue. A package includes four kinds of bath tablets, with scents of camphor tree, Japanese cypress, green bamboo, and nadeshiko flowers.

Another popular bath salt is this fruit flavored type, which contains capsaicin extracted from chili peppers. The capsaicin warms the body and improves blood circulation.

How To Use Bath Salts at Home

In Japan, it is usual to take a bath at night before bed, and a typical Japanese bathroom has a bathtub called "yubune". Fill the bath tub with hot water and immediately cover it to maintain the right temperature until you soak in. Take a bath salt envelope or one ball shaped tablet and insert it in the bath tub. Soon enough after the salt is mixed with the water, the color of the water changes. Its beautiful aroma will instantly make you feel relaxed. Take your time to fully enjoy the bath and let it relieve your tiredness. We hope you have fun trying out the various bath salts.