Epsom salts are a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate.
Often used as a bath soak solution, Epsom salts have long been known for their health benefits which include relieving stress, and pain in muscles and joints as well as improving skin health.
In this article, we will explore all the ways you can benefit from Epsom salts and how to use them safely.
Are you ready to dive into the benefits of Epsom salts? Let’s do it.
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What are Epsom Salts? An Overview.
Epsom salt is a crystal-like substance with various uses ranging from medical to beauty treatments.
It was first discovered in the wells of Epsom, England back in the 17th century and has since grown popular around the world due to its numerous healing benefits.
The primary components of Epsom salt are magnesium and sulfate both of which play an important role in many bodily functions such as muscle movement, nerve function and energy production.
Not only that but it has also been found to help reduce inflammation, relieve stress, soothe muscles and improve skin health when used topically.
Epsom salts are similar to magnesium bath flakes with their potential benefits but different chemically.
This is because they are both good sources of magnesium which has been proven to be better absorbed through the skin (transdermal).
However, Epsom salts are more widely available and often less expensive than bath flakes making them a great option for those on a budget.
Now let’s dive into the fun stuff you came here for, the benefits.
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5 Science-Backed Benefits of Epsom Salts
The primary benefit of using Epsom salt is the high concentration of magnesium sulfate within it which helps improve many areas of wellness such as improved cardiovascular health and sleep quality.
Below are 5 benefits of putting Epsom salts in your bath:
- May Relieve Stress and Anxiety
- Muscle & Joint Pain Relief
- May Improve Skin Health
- Enhances Post-Workout Muscle Recovery
- May Help Detox your Body from Toxins
Let’s break down each of these 5 Epsom salt benefits in more detail.
1. Epsom Salts May Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Epsom salt baths are known to be a great way to relax and de-stress after a long day.
Studies have shown that taking a hot bath with Epsom salts can help reduce cortisol levels (cortisol = the stress hormone) and improve sleep quality, thus promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help relieve tension in muscles while also providing pain relief which is especially good for those dealing with chronic stress or conditions like arthritis.
It’s good to remember that Epsom salts contain magnesium and this should explain why they have a calming effect on the body. Magnesium is known as the relaxation mineral and it’s responsible for over 300 biochemical reactions in our bodies.
As part of your holistic health plan for 2023, try adding Epsom salt to your nighttime routine for an effective way to relieve stress and anxiety.
2. Epsom Salts May Help Relieve Muscle and Joint Pain
Epsom salts are especially beneficial for those dealing with muscle and joint pain as they contain a high concentration of magnesium sulfate which helps draw out toxins from sore muscles.
Furthermore, Epsom salt’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation, resulting in improved mobility and reduced muscle pain. Also, some people may find that regular Epsom salt baths or foot soaks might help alleviate long-term conditions like arthritis or other chronic joint issues.
If you suffer from back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain or muscle soreness from exercise, try adding Epsom salts to your post-workout recovery routine. It’s a great way to relieve muscle and joint pain naturally.
Related Article: 3 Best Epsom Salts for Bath (Ranked & Reviewed)
3. Epsom Salts May Improve Skin Health
Epsom salts are known for their many skincare benefits, such as helping to reduce dryness and irritation.
Epsom salt, scientifically referred to as magnesium sulfate, is a combination of magnesium, sulfur and oxygen.
It contains a high concentration of sulfur which helps stimulate collagen production, thus improving the skin’s elasticity and minimizing the signs of ageing.
When used externally on the skin (transdermal application), Epsom salt helps exfoliate dead cells while promoting cell regeneration which results in softer, smoother skin with improved texture and even-tone complexion.
Additionally, Epsom salt is a source of the mineral magnesium which can help detoxify the skin while also providing anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can help keep the skin healthy.
According to Dr Dendy Engelman, a Dermatologist in New York City, “Magnesium helps improve your skin’s overall appearance, reducing acne and other skin disorders by lowering cortisol levels, stabilizing hormonal imbalances, and improving cellular processes“.
In short, using Epsom salts, magnesium bath flakes or magnesium spray oil as part of your regular skincare routine may help improve your skin health.
So if healthy, glowing and hydrated skin is what you’re after, Epsom salt is the answer.
4. Epsom Salts Enhances Post-Workout Muscle Recovery
Epsom salts are known to be beneficial for speeding up recovery after an intense workout.
They contain minerals like magnesium and sulfur which help relax the muscles and magnesium has been proven to decrease lactic acid buildup (lactate levels) which can lead to soreness. Source
Additionally, Epsom salts can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process. They can also help reduce swelling and muscle cramps, making them an optimal choice for post-workout recovery.
All in all, using Epsom salts as part of your post-workout routine may help improve your overall performance while also helping enhance muscle recovery times.
So if you’re looking to speed up muscle recovery after an intense workout, try adding Epsom salts to your bath or foot soak. You’ll surely feel the difference!
5. Epsom Salts Can Aid in Detoxification
Epsom salts are great for detoxifying the body as they help draw out toxins, heavy metals and other impurities from the system.
The sulfur in Epsom salt binds to heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium and helps flush them out of our bodies. It also increases the production of glutathione, an important antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and aids in detoxification.
Sulfur is a mineral that is found in some plant and protein foods. It helps support the body’s natural detoxification process and Epsom salt baths can provide a great way to relax while also helping rid your body of toxins.
Moreover, Epsom salt baths are said to help reduce water retention and a bloated body by helping your body flush out excess fluids.
This can help improve the appearance of cellulite and other skin conditions related to the accumulation of toxins in the body.
Why not try adding Epsom salts to your daily routine? You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Related Article: 4 Amazing Benefits of Magnesium Bath Flakes and Side Effects
How to Use Epsom Salts in your Baths
Epsom Salt can be used both internally (in drink form, dissolved in water) or externally (in a bath or foot soak using warm water and compress method).
Here’re some ways you can use Epsom salts:
- Bath Soak Solution: Adding about two cups of Epsom salt to your warm bathwater not only removes toxins from your skin but also relaxes tense muscles leading to better sleep quality.
If you’re feeling particularly stressed out or sore then add an extra cup for added relief – just don’t forget to rinse off any residue after soaking for about 20 minutes!
You can also add essential oils like lavender or chamomile for extra aromatherapy benefits during your soak session!
- Compress Method: If taking a warm bath isn’t your thing then you can make a compress out of heated water mixed with Epsom salt instead.
Simply dampen a cloth with this solution and apply it onto affected areas such as painful joints to reduce pain and swelling!
Make sure to keep an eye out though as leaving compresses on too long can irritate your skin in some cases so just stick to 10-minute intervals at most!
Where to Buy Epsom Salts?
The Westlab Epsom Salts are carefully sourced from the highest quality minerals and have been laboratory tested for purity.
They use only pharmaceutical-grade magnesium sulfate so you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible product for your health needs.
The convenient packaging also makes it easy to measure out a precise amount of salts for your baths or compresses. It’s packaged in a resealable pouch and contains 10kg of high-quality salts that will last you a long time.
So if you’re looking for a safe and reliable source of Epsom Salts, then look no further than the Westlab range!
If you want to try it, visit the Amazon link below and experience the many benefits that come with using these amazing salts.
Conclusion
To sum up, Epsom salt has many versatile applications ranging from medicinal remedies to beauty treatments thanks mostly due to its unique combination of magnesium and sulfate.
Not only does it promote overall health but its soothing properties make it great for anyone looking for some relaxing “me time” whether you prefer a long bath soak, foot soak or quick compress method. Either way, you’ll get amazing rewards afterwards!
If you want to dive into our series of magnesium supplements, find out how magnesium spray oil relieves restless legs. Did you enjoy this article? Let us know in the comments below!
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Benefits of Epsom Salts
Which Epsom salt is best for Haemorrhoids?
Epsom salts, or magnesium sulfate, are thought to be beneficial for reducing the symptoms of haemorrhoids. Epsom salts are best used in a bath. Soak your lower body in warm water with 1-2 cups of Epsom salt and soak for 15-20 minutes. Epsom salt can help reduce swelling, soothe irritation and inflammation, as well as reduce itching. Additionally, Epsom salts can help to relax the muscles in the area, which may help ease discomfort. It is important to speak with your doctor before using Epsom salts for haemorrhoid relief.
Is Epsom salt good for plants?
Absolutely! Epsom salts consist of magnesium sulfate, a plant nutrient that helps strengthen plants’ cell walls. This makes them more resilient and can make plants grow faster and bloom brighter. You can add Epsom salts to the soil for your garden or houseplants, as well as directly to their water supply.
Is Epsom salt good for constipation?
Yes, Epsom salt is good for constipation as its laxative properties can help to stimulate the digestive system and provide relief from constipation. It works by drawing water into your intestines, which then softens up stools for easy passing.
Is Epsom salt safe to drink?
Yes, Epsom salts are safe to drink, as long as they’re used in the right quantity. Epsom salts contain a combination of magnesium and sulfate which can help your body absorb other minerals more easily, thus making them beneficial for many bodily functions including digestion and muscle aches. If you want to drink Epsom salts, take 10-20 grams per day, dissolved in warm water.
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