Bath salts are usually grouped together under the term “homeopathic”. The word derives from old examples where the medicines were disguised as bath salts. Today bath salts are still popular among people of all ages. The unsweetened white powder, crystallized salt, or beads often look very much like Epsom salts, yet are different chemically. However, they all have one thing in common – their therapeutic properties.
The therapeutic effects of bath salts depend on the contents of the bath salts and their specific ingredients. In general, they work by stimulating the nerves and improving mood. Many of these drugs also contain substances that affect the nervous system. The chemicals used in them can have side effects, so it is recommended to consult with a doctor before trying them. While there are no studies showing that they do not have any effect, some research has shown that certain chemicals can reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs, for instance, Viagra, which contains ingredients that increase blood flow to the penis.
Stimulants – these are commonly used to relieve nervous system disorders or those suffering from anxiety attacks. Many bath salts contain the stimulant compound phenylethylamine, which has similar effects to the famous “ecstasy” drug. Some of the bath salts contain other substances that can also affect the nervous system, which can cause undesired side effects. A very interesting side effect caused by bath salts containing ephedrine is that it can actually build up your body’s adrenaline levels, leading to feelings of increased energy and excitement. Unfortunately, this can also lead to heart failure if the levels of ephedrine in your body rise to an unsafe level. Some ephedrine products have been banned in some countries.
Mephedrone and bath salts are usually sold as “bath salts”, but they can also be sold as “moppers”. These are not necessarily safer than the other type, but some users report weird, unexplainable hallucinations, including hearing voices in your head and seeing things that aren’t really there. The most famous bath salts containing this substance are “bath salts”, “bath elixir”, and “bath busters”. It is believed that bath salts containing ephedrine act on the nerves and increase blood flow to the penis. Other effects include “clotting of the veins of the brain”, “hallucinations”, and “suicidal thoughts”.
Synthetic drugs – these are mostly sold online and over the internet. They come in liquid, powder or pills, which can be disguised as other substances. There’s a wide range of synthetic substances, from painkillers and mood enhancers to recreational substances, drugs for gambling, and even legal substances like Viagra. These can be dangerous if you take them in high doses or for a long period of time. Commonly used designer drugs are often sold online, but it is still possible to find unbranded bath salts or other substances in drugstores and convenience stores. You should never buy synthetic drugs, if you don’t know what they are and if there’s any chance of having an adverse reaction.
Recreational drugs – these are mainly sold in chemists, drug stores and online dealers. Recreational bath salts fall under this category because they are meant for personal use. Some examples of these types of bath salts are Epsom salts (used to detoxify the body), Jacks Rocks (used to stimulate the penis), and other novelty products. It is possible to buy legitimate bath salt drugs online, and many of them are also sold over the counter in chemists and stores.
Cocaine – this is probably the most well-known and also most addictive of bath salts. People who are addicted to cocaine, often experience hallucinations, paranoia and extreme euphoria. Often the intensity of the “high” will last only a matter of minutes, before the user starts to feel depressed again and resorts to more stimulants. Cocaine is highly addictive and has many different forms and users should seek help if they want to kick their habit.
Monkey Dust – another popular name for bath salts containing cocaine. This is another form of stimulant that can be abused and can have serious withdrawal symptoms when stopped. Monkey dust is similar to bath salts in that it too is a stimulant, albeit a less concentrated form. People who are easily distracted and have a hard time focusing on things may be high on monkey dust.