Deriving its name from a bitter saline spring found at Epsom, specifically in Surrey England, Epsom salt is actually NOT a type of salt, but is instead a naturally occurring magnesium and sulfate mineral compound. Long used as a remedy for various ailments, Epsom salt also offers a lot of beauty, gardening, and household benefits.
According to studies, sulfate and magnesium are both easily absorbed by the skin, making an Epsom salt bath a convenient way to enjoy the mineral’s health benefits. Following are some of the many Epsom salt uses you could try.
Top 9 Uses of Epsom Salts
1. For Body Relaxation
When dissolved in water such as in Epsom salt baths, the compound immediately goes to work inside the body as it is quickly absorbed by the skin. This leads to improved serotonin production that helps relieve stress and reduce the effects of adrenaline. An Epsom bath is likewise invigorating without causing anxiety or restlessness.
Click here to get an Epsom salt bath recipe with your favorite fragrance.
2. For Better Arterial Health
Epsom salts promote circulation and keep severe cardiovascular disorders at bay by reducing inflammation and safeguarding the arteries’ elasticity. The result is a lower risk of plaque build-up, blood clots, and arterial wall damage. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath 3 – 4 times a week can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress levels, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
3. For Pain and Cramp Relief
When absorbed through the skin, Epsom salts help relieve muscle tension, joint inflammation, and pain. Just submerge yourself in warm water with Epsom salt to get quick relief from abdominal cramps, tension, and headaches. A warm Epsom salt soak is also therapeutic for sore and tired feet. Add essential oils to enhance the effect.
4. For Improved Nerve and Muscle Function
Magnesium sulfate has other benefits aside from pain, cramp, and tension relief. It also helps in the cells’ fluid retention and facilitates calcium’s transmission of chemical signals to the entire nervous system. Epsom salt baths are one of the easiest ways to replenish magnesium levels naturally.
ALSO READ: Are You In Need Of Magnesium?
Scroll down for more wonderful uses of Epsom salts.
5. For Regulating Blood Sugar
Both sulfate and magnesium facilitate better production and use of insulin by the body. Regular Epsom salt use – either transdermally or orally – helps reduce the risk of diabetes through proper regulation of blood sugar levels and enhancing the overall levels of energy.
6. For Constipation Relief
Epsom salt works as a saline laxative. Drinking two tbsp. of Epsom salt dissolved in a cup of warm water will do the trick. However, refrain from using this remedy more than once in one day. Consult your doctor if the symptoms persist for a few days.
ALSO READ: Magnesium and Constipation: Can’t Poop? Here’s What You Need To Do
7. For Removal of Splinters
If you have a stubborn splinter to dislodge, just soak the affected part of the body in warm water with Epsom salts for several minutes. The inflammation will be relieved, and the splinter will soften up, making it easier to remove.
8. For Soothing Bruises and Sprains
As an anti-inflammatory, Epsom salt can help ease the soreness associated with bruises and sprains. Simply add two cups of Epsom salt to warm water and soak the aches and pains away.
9. For Keeping Healthy Feet
Soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salts not only relieves aches but it can also treat athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
Want to give your feet some love? Check out this post: How To Treat Tired Feet With The Best Care
There are lots of other Epsom salt uses other than for physical health. They can also be used as plant fertilizer, for cleaning tiles, grout, pots, and pans. It is, therefore, a good idea to stock some in your home. You never know when you will need to use it.
Do you use Epsom salts for other things in and around your home? Please share them with us in the comment box below.
Thanks for reading. I hope this information was helpful. Until next time!
Amy Goodrich
Crazy cat lady, life and food lover, certified biologist, and holistic health coach.
