Epsom salts have been used for hundreds of years. They are helpful for aches, pains and skin issues.
Here’s the break down:
What Are They?
They are nothing like the table salt you put on food. They’re called salts because of their chemical structure. “Epsom” is a region in England where they’re found in natural springs. You can find them in most drugstores and grocery stores.
How Do They Work?
In water, they break down into magnesium and sulphate. When you soak in an Epsom salts bath they absorb into your body through your skin. Simple soaking in warm water can help relax muscles and loosen stiff joints.
Magnesium is essential for every life form on the planet. In the human body, it’s necessary for muscle and nerve function, maintaining a healthy immune system, regular heartbeat, sufficient blood glucose and strong bones.
Conditions that people find epsom salt baths useful for:
- Arthritis pain and swelling
- Bruises and sprains
- Stiff joints and sore muscles
- Stress
- Fibromyalgia
- Ingrown toenails
- Insomnia
- Psoriasis
- Skin irritation and inflammation
- Itching – caused by poison ivy
- Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) – sore muscles from working out
- Sunburn pain and redness
- Tired, swollen feet and lower legs
If you have health concerns, check with your doctor first.
Stop if you experience itchy skin, hives or other allergic reaction symptoms.
How to Take an Epsom Salts Bath
The water should be very warm — not hot, but comfortable to the touch. Adding the Epsom salts while the water is running helps them dissolve; but you may need to swirl the water and salts around to get them full dissolved.
Usually 1 to 2 cups for a full body soak.
At least 15 minutes is sufficient, but feel free to stay in as long as you like. Depending on the condition and pain level, how often to do these soaks can vary. Try with once or twice a week to start.
You can also add essential oils into the water for an aromatherapy touch. Comment below to let me know what kind of essential oils you might add…
Take care,
xoxo Amy
