What Is Epsom Salt? How to Use Epsom Salt

Composed of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen, Epsom salt is a chemical compound originally discovered in Epsom, a town in Surrey, England. It has a crystal-like structure similar to sea salt; however, Epsom salt is bitter in taste and not used in cooking like table salt. Instead, Epsom salt is commonly used in baths for relaxation purposes and for the purported benefit of balancing magnesium levels. While there is no evidence that Epsom salt can be directly absorbed into the skin, it may help relieve muscle soreness and relax the body.

There isn’t concrete scientific evidence to prove the health benefits of using Epsom salt. However, Epsom salt is commonly used to help ease a few specific ailments.

1. 1. Relieve muscle pain: Warm water helps loosen and relax muscles and joints. Soaking your body in an Epsom salt bath may relieve mild muscle soreness and tension. Try adding two cups of Epsom salt to a bathtub or foot bath full of hot water as a home remedy for relieving mild aches, sprains, and sore muscles.
2. 2. Reduce stress: Different types of Epsom salt may be infused with essential oils such as lavender and eucalyptus to be used for aromatherapy purposes. You can also add lavender or eucalyptus essential oils to your Epsom salt bath if you already have unscented Epsom salt on hand.
3. 3. Relieve mild constipation: When taken orally, Epsom salt can function as a laxative. The magnesium content draws water into the intestines, helping produce a bowel movement. Typically, this method involves a ratio of two teaspoons of Epsom salt dissolved in eight ounces of water, but follow the directions on your package of Epsom salt. Before consuming Epsom salt, talk to your doctor to find out if you have a magnesium deficiency.

Consider a few additional uses of Epsom salt.

1. 1. Soothing skincare: Epsom salt soaks can be used as a natural remedy to soften dry skin. Add two cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath. Let the Epsom salt dissolve into hot water before soaking in the bath for ten to twenty minutes. You can also use an Epsom salt bath to help ease the pain of a sunburn.
2. 2. Natural exfoliant: To make a natural exfoliant, mix equal parts Epsom salt and olive oil. Rubbing this on your skin in a shower or bath can help exfoliate your skin.
3. 3. Foot care: In addition to other doctor-prescribed treatments, soaking your feet in an Epsom salt bath can help you manage the pain of an ingrown toenail. The warm water and Epsom salt help soften the nail and reduce inflammation, relieving pain.

Epsom salt can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Seek medical help if you experience swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives after using or ingesting Epsom salt. Drinking water and Epsom salt can also cause diarrhea, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. Always speak to your doctor before trying an Epsom salt home remedy.

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