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Origins of Epsom salts -

The use of Epsom salt dates back to the 17th century, when these small, colorless crystals were used to treat a range of health conditions.

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Origins of Epsom salts -

The salt was discovered by accident in the town of Epsom in England. The spring waters weren't appetizing to livestock, but people found sitting in them relaxing.

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A spa destination -

The town became a popular spa destination, and in the 17th century the salt was separated from the water and sold as a standalone product.

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A different kind of salt -

The chemical structure of Epsom salts resembles, well, salt! However, if you were to taste these salts, you'd experience a bitter, unpleasant flavor.

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Home treatments -

People use Epsom salts as a home treatment for a number of complaints, including: arthritis swelling and pain, ingrown toenails, insomnia, sunburn pain and redness, sore muscles, and fibromyalgia.

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Home treatments -

Taking a hot bath in Epsom salts is also claimed to be a treatment to help with insomnia, psoriasis, and tired, swollen feet.

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Constipation treatment -

Epsom salt can also be ingested to help with constipation, as it has laxative properties. It can be dissolved in a glass of water to drink for this purpose.

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Constipation treatment -

However, the most common forms of magnesium to take for this purpose is magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide, or magnesium hydroxide.

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Constipation treatment -

While taking Epsom salt to relieve constipation might work, it hasn't been studied as well as the other forms of magnesium. It could have some unpleasant side effects such as loose stool.

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Magnesium sulfate -

In water, the salts break down into sulfate and magnesium. It was believed that by soaking in the mineral, it could be absorbed by the body through the skin. However, this hasn't been proven, and the claim about absorbing magnesium through the skin might just be a folk tale.

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Magnesium's function in the body -

Magnesium is an essential mineral used in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, benefitting the nervous system and the heart.

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Magnesium absorption -

There have been some very small studies on the absorption of magnesium from taking an Epsom salt bath, but the numbers of participants were low and they lacked a control group.

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Magnesium absorption -

While blood magnesium levels were higher in some people after bathing in Epsom salts, the quality of the conditions was questionable, while other studies provided conflicting results.

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The skin is a barrier -

This is probably because, for the most part, our skin acts as a barrier. It is not a sponge, it's our first line of defense, designed to keep things out.

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Relaxation and recovery -

An Epsom salt bath's legendary ability to reduce cramps and relieve muscle stiffness is more than likely the effect of relaxing and recovering in the tub.

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Relaxation and recovery -

Athletes typically have lower levels of magnesium, which is needed for muscle repair. Taking a magnesium supplement can help with this, while a bath provides comfort during the recovery process.

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Fibromyalgia and arthritis -

Conditions including arthritis and fibromyalgia can cause chronic inflammation in the body. This inflammation can cause stiffness and soreness.

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Fibromyalgia and arthritis -

Taking an Epsom salt bath is also touted as being helpful for these conditions. However, there is a lack of scientific research about the effect of using Epsom salt baths for relief.

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Stress relief -

An Epsom salt bath is unlikely to give you more or less relief than a regular bath. But bathing is believed to help regulate the body's circadian rhythm, through an increase in temperature.

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Stress relief -

Bathing is also believed to help activate the parasympathetic nervous system. This is the body's "rest and digest" response.

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How to use Epsom salts -

Epsom salts can be used as an exfoliant as part of your beauty routine. Taking just half a teaspoon, mix it with your cleanser and massage into the skin for gentle exfoliation.

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How to use Epsom salts -

For an Epsom salt bath, add 2 cups (475 g) of the salts to your bathwater. The salts will dissolve faster under running water.

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How to use Epsom salts -

Epsom salts are also claimed to act as a conditioner that adds volume to the hair. Mix equal parts of the salts to your usual conditioner, and leave it in the hair for 20 minutes before washing out.

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When not to use Epsom salts -

Think twice before using Epsom salt in a bathtub that has jets, a hot tub, or a whirlpool bath. Unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, the salts could potentially cause damage.

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More research is needed -

When purchasing Epsom salt, look to buy a product that’s 100% magnesium sulfate. And remember: none of the claims about Epsom salt have a scientific basis.

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Affordable and harmless -

When used properly, Epsom salts are harmless. They're an affordable and easy-to-use addition to bath time, sold at most grocery and drug stores. However, they should be avoided by people who are pregnant, and those with kidney or heart issues.

Sources: (National Geographic) (WebMD) (Healthline) (Medical News Today) (Health.com)

See also: Unexpected bath ingredients for soft, glowing skin

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