Epsom Salt: Exploring Potential Health Benefits
By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Jun 6, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Jun 6, 2024Table of Contents
Epsom salts have been a commonly used natural aid for different health issues over centuries. Its unique combination of magnesium and sulfate is what gives it its potential health benefits.
In this article, we will delve into the exciting world of Epsom salt together. We will cover its backstory, what it’s made up of, and how it works. We’ll look at all the ways it can help you – from better sleep to easing muscle stiffness and constipation. We’ll also cover how to use it the right way, safety tips, and answer some common queries about this useful mineral.
Epsom salt isn’t table salt. It’s a naturally found mix made up of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen.
First found in the town of Epsom in England in 1618, Epsom salt has been prized as a remedy for many health problems. This mineral mix is made of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen, and is also known as magnesium sulfate. Magnesium and sulfur are key elements needed for our bodies to work right, playing key roles in different chemical reactions, muscle function, and nerve function.
It’s important to note that Epsom salt is not the same as table salt, which is mainly made up of sodium chloride. Though they both have a similar crystalline structure, Epsom salt tastes bitter, unlike the familiar salty flavour of table salt. Beyond this, Epsom salt is known to be good for health, while too much table salt is often linked to bad health effects, like high blood pressure.
When you dissolve Epsom salt in water, it lets loose its key ingredients, magnesium, and sulfate. Many believe that these ions get in through the skin when used in baths, giving various health benefits. It’s important to note, that the evidence to support the absorption of magnesium and sulfate ions through the skin is limited. More studies are needed to confirm this claim.
Magnesium, a key nutrient for general well-being, plays a vital role in several body functions. It’s tied to more than 300 chemical reactions within the human body, including muscle and nerve function and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Having enough magnesium is central to several health aspects, such as blood sugar control, heart work, and bone strength. Many people fall short of reaching their daily magnesium needs, which could potentially harm their well-being.
Less magnesium than needed has been tied to several health problems, such as trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, anxiety, and even heart diseases. With Epsom salt, either by soaking in it or by consuming it, people might raise their magnesium levels and improve their overall health.
People from all walks of life and diverse cultures have hailed Epsom salt for a range of health boosts. These typically include better sleep, lower stress, faster muscle recovery, and pain relief, among other things which are discussed below.
Not having enough magnesium can affect sleep quality and the ability to deal with stress. By boosting magnesium levels with Epsom salt, people may get better sleep, less stress, and more relaxation. As magnesium is needed for the production of neurotransmitters needed for sleep in the brain. We have many people reporting the impact of Epsom salt on their sleep, but we still require studies corroborating these reports.
Magnesium sulfate, the active ingredient in Epsom salt, can also be used as a laxative to ease constipation. It does this by pulling water into the colon, which helps soften the stools and induces bowel movements. For those thinking of using Epsom salt as a laxative, it should be taken with lots of water and as per package directions. However, keep in mind that it’s not wise to use it long-term, and it is advisable to take Epsom salt only after discussing it with your doctor as it should only be used once in a while for constipation relief. Self-medication is not advised.
Having optimal magnesium levels may help exercise performance and muscle recovery. Epsom salt baths may potentially boost outcomes from exercise by lowering inflammation and soothing muscle pain after workouts. Magnesium is said to play a vital role in how muscles work, boosting the amount of glucose in the blood, muscles, and brain during exercise. Having enough magnesium is proposed to help remove lactic acid buildup in muscles, lowering pain and boosting workout performance over time. Even though there aren’t many studies on Epsom salt’s ability to aid muscle recovery, word-of-mouth evidence suggests that it might help soothe tired muscles and lessen swelling. Athletes may find soaking in an Epsom salt bath helpful for better performance and faster recovery times.
Pain relief and reduced swelling are other potential benefits that users often report from Epsom salt. People with conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and muscle cramps might find relief from Epsom salt baths, thanks to its magnesium content. As magnesium is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
There are several ways to use Epsom salt to reap its potential benefits – these range from adding it to baths for relaxation and skincare to consuming it for relief from constipation. Below we have discussed how to use Epsom salt safely and get the most out of it. The various ways in which you can use Epsom salt are as follows.
The most typical way to enjoy Epsom salt is by adding it to a warm bath. Stir in 2 cups, or roughly 475 grams (g), of Epsom salt into a tub of warm water and soak for at least 15 minutes. The salts will melt away fast, giving you a posh, rebalancing experience that may also help ease muscle pain and bring down inflammation.
To prepare an Epsom salt bath, just pour the Epsom salt you want to use into a water-filled tub or mix it with water before getting into the tub. The water should be nice and warm, roughly between 92°F to 100°F (33°C to 37°C).
For the best results, soak in an Epsom salt bath for 15 to 30 minutes. You can enjoy these baths a few times every week, depending on what you prefer and what your health needs are.
Epsom salt is a great bonus for facial scrubs, hair therapy, and other beauty routines. Just mix a little bit with water or your favorite cleaning cream or conditioner for a refreshing experience.
After mixing a little bit of Epsom salt with warm water or your chosen cleanser, gently rub the mix onto your face. Rinse it off well, making sure to be careful around your eyes.
Combine equal parts conditioner and Epsom salt, then put the mix onto your hair. Keep the mix on for 20 minutes before you rinse it all off. This simple but uplifting remedy might add volume and shine to your hair.
Epsom salt may be used as a laxative once in a while to provide relief from constipation. Just melt the advised dose, typically 2 to 6 teaspoons (10-30 g) for grown-ups or 1 to 2 teaspoons (5-10 g) for kids, in a glass of water. When eating Epsom salt as a laxative, always stick to the package guide to avoid likely side effects, such as diarrhoea or bloating. If you’re not sure about the right dose or need more help, ask a health professional for advice suitable to you.
It is always advisable not to self-medicate, as it shouldn’t be used for constipation over a long period. Also, people with kidney disease, heart disease, those who are pregnant, and kids should especially speak to a health professional before eating Epsom salt by mouth.
While Epsom salt is usually safe for use on the skin and eating in the right amounts, some people might have bad side effects. Be aware of any likely allergic reactions or bad side effects, and discuss with a health professional if you see odd signs or discomfort.
Possible side effects linked to eating Epsom salt may include diarrhoea, bloating, or an upset stomach. Using it on the skin may result in skin irritation or contact dermatitis for those with sensitive skin. Stop using it and seek medical advice if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction or other worrying signs.
If you come across unusual side effects or discomfort while using Epsom salt, stop using it and discuss it with a health professional right away.
Epsom salt may offer comfort and relief for tired, achy feet. Soak your feet in a warm Epsom salt foot bath to soothe pain, lower inflammation, and possibly even soften rough areas.
Using an Epsom salt foot bath may help muscle pain, encourage relaxation, and bring down swelling and inflammation in the feet. For an added boost, pair the soak with a soothing massage or gentle stretching moves.
Epsom salt has long been an at-home remedy for pulling out stubborn splinters. By soaking the affected area in a warm Epsom salt mix, you might bring down inflammation, soften the skin around it, and make it easier to take out the splinter.
Also Read: Magnesium Oxide Benefits: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Potent Properties
Even though the number of studies on the health benefits of Epsom salt is limited, we can’t ignore its potential advantages. With its centuries-old fame and countless stories of success, Epsom salt remains a helpful at-home remedy for many health problems.
While we need more big, good-quality studies to fully back its claims, adding Epsom salt into your lifestyle may improve relaxation, help muscle pain, and add to overall well-being. As always, discuss with a health professional if you come across any side effects or have worries about using it.
Epsom salt is often used as an at-home remedy to help muscle soreness, encourage relaxation, help constipation, and maintain overall wellness. This is done by taking baths, beauty therapies, and consuming oral formulations.
If you drink Epsom salt water, it can work as a laxative when you need help with constipation once in a while. With its active part being magnesium sulfate, it pulls water into the gut to help bowel movements. Make sure you discuss this with a health professional before using Epsom salt as a laxative, particularly if you have existing health problems. Don’t self medicate.
People with open cuts or serious skin irritation should avoid soaking in Epsom salt or discuss with a health professional before use. In addition, those with serious health issues such as kidney disease, heart disease, or women who are pregnant should discuss with a doctor before using Epsom salt in any form.
Make the most of your soak by staying in an Epsom salt bath for 15 to 30 minutes. This gives your body enough time to relax, ease muscle pain, and absorb the the salt. However, you may adjust the duration based on your personal likes and needs.
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