Bath Salts vs. "Bath Salt" drugs

I have recently began adding some bath salts to my line of products to go along with my herbal bath teas, and I have inadvertently stumbled across a growing trend in the world of synthetic drugs: “bath salts.” Apparently, there is a new line of synthetic drugs termed “bath salts” that are being sold in local head shops, and are causing devastating effects to those to use them. So, I wanted to take a moment and clear up any confusion that you may have between real bath salts, and those used as drugs.

My rose bath salts!

First, I want to talk about my own bath salts. My bath salts are handmade by me in my home, and contain only mineral salts. Currently, my bath salts are comprised of Epsom salts (Magnesium Sulfate) and naturally occurring sea salts, and I am looking to add Dead Sea Salts and Himalayan Pink salts in the near future. My bath salts are usually colored and are scented with either synthetic fragrance oils or naturally derived essential oils.

Now, lets look at the synthetic drug that people are calling “bath salts.” The term "bath salts" given to the drug is very misleading... These synthetics are not sodium (salt) based, like my handmade bath salts, or traditional bath salts found in most shopping centers. In fact, instead of being composed of a variety of salt rocks, these synthetics come in powder form. The drug is comprised of three amphetamine-like substances: methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MPDV), mephedrone and pyrovalerone. These substances can be deadly, and persons who use these substances are usually quick to overdose. In fact, our local rehabilitation center has recently reported that over a quarter of their patients are there seeking treatment because of “bath salt” abuse. These synthetic drugs are not sold in regular stores, but can only be found in places like head shops and smoke shops. And while some states have already started taking measures against the synthetic drugs, they can still be bought locally here in Tennessee.

I hope that this little post has shed some light onto this bath salt vs. "bath salt" controversy! Just take a look at the bath salt ingredients label to learn more about what you are holding... If you have any more questions about my handmade (real!) bath salts, feel free to email me!