Although Epsom salt looks like salt, it is not. It’s actually magnesium sulfate- a chemical sulfate mineral.
This salt is used for skin care as well as a fertilizer. Many people add Epsom salt in the bath because it relaxes the whole body and helps in muscle recovery.
The good news is that this salt is not expensive and can be found in almost any pharmacy so you must have it at home. Read the following reasons:
Powerful Benefits of Epsom Salt
Epsom salts is rich in magnesium. It is absorbed through the skin when applied topically.
This mineral is needed for over 300 metabolic functions in the body. So magnesium helps in energy production, against inflammations and it regulates the levels of copper, potassium, calcium, zinc, vitamin D and other crucial nutrients important for proper body function.
Magnesium alleviates the symptoms of depression, asthma, hearing loss, heart failure, migraines, preeclampsia, PMS, colorectal cancer, hypertension, fibromyalgia, arrhythmia and osteoporosis.
Sulfate is important for liver detoxification. When is combined with hot water it helps the body to secrete the hormone- serotonin which is known as the “happy hormone”. This hormone will calm and relax your body.
Epsom salt baths can help with the following conditions:
- Arthritis pain and swelling
- Bruises and sprains
- Tired, swollen feet
- Ingrown toenails
- Psoriasis, a disease that causes red, itchy, scaly skin
- Insomnia
- Sunburn pain and redness
- Sore muscles after working out
- Soreness from diarrhea during chemotherapy
- Fibromyalgia, a condition that makes your muscles, ligaments, and tendons hurt, and causes tender points throughout your body
How to Use Epsom Salt
It is usually recommended using 2 cups of Epsom salt in a well-filled bath and staying in the bath for 12-15 minutes.
However, David Jockers DC, MS, CSCS suggests that the quantity of salt you use should be proportional with your body weight. He also recommends staying in the bath for 20-40 minutes. The first 20 minutes the body cleanses of toxins while the next 20 the body absorbs the minerals throughout the skin.
Here are the quantities of Epsom salt he recommends:
- Children under 60 lbs.: ½ cup
- Individuals between 60-100 lbs.: 1 cup
- Individuals between 100-150 lbs.: 1½ cups
- Individuals between 150-200 lbs.: 2 cups
- For every 50lbs more – add an additional ½ cup of salts.
For better detoxification, use dry brush for 5 minutes. In this way you will open the pores. Then add ½ cup of raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar for better effect.
If you need relaxing bath, add a few drops of essential oils like lavender oil and a few tablespoons of baking soda. If you want to hydrate your skin, add coconut oil.