Epsom Salt Baths: Benefits, Safety & How to Use

Epsom salt is comprised of magnesium and sulfur, two minerals the body uses for energy production, muscle control and toxin elimination.

Magnesium

• According to the National Institutes of Health, half of all total body magnesium is found in bone, and the other half is found inside cells and organs. Only 1 percent of magnesium exists in the blood.

External Uses

• Epsom salt has several external uses. You can use it to exfoliate dead skin cells, remove odors and assist in the healing of wounds. Epsom salt also serves as a medicinal ingredient in a bath.

Epsom Salt Bath

• Many people find that Epsom salt baths provide relief for sore muscles and reduce swelling and inflammation.

Considerations

• The skin absorbs the magnesium in an Epsom salt bath into the body. This increases the levels of magnesium in the body.

Overdose

• Diarrhea, vomiting and a severely lowered blood pressure are some of the side effects of having too much magnesium in the body.

Warning

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or on any medications, check with your physician first before taking an Epsom salt bath.