Epsom salt has long been touted as a fantastic addition to a relaxing bath. But Epsom salt has several profound benefits beyond the bath.
- Vital Minerals
Epsom salt differs from table salt in that it is composed of magnesium and sulfate, whereas table salt is sodium chloride. Magnesium is a vital mineral that, over the last several decades, has been depleted from our food sources due to poor farming practices that leech this mineral from the soil, and the over processing of foods in the Standard American Diet. Frequent use of Epsom salt can help replenish your body’s levels of magnesium effectively.
- Adrenal Fatigue
The magnesium in Epsom salt can help promote production of serotonin and reduce the effects that adrenaline can have on the body.
- Pain Relief
Epsom salt can relieve muscle tension, pain and inflammation throughout the body. Soaking in a bath with one cup of Epsom can relieve headaches, menstrual and other cramps, muscle fatigue and soothe sore feet.
- Fluid Retention
Epsom salt can help regulate fluid retention in cells, relieve bloating and excess water weight.
- Arterial Health
Epsom can support circulation and improve arterial health by lowering blood pressure.
- Blood Sugar
Magnesium and sulfate both aid in regulating insulin production, lowering blood sugar levels. Epsom can be taken orally (follow directions and consult your doctor before beginning an oral regimen).
- Constipation
One teaspoon of Epsom salt in a cup of warm water creates a gentle saline laxative. Drink no more than one dose per day.
- Splinter Removal
Soaking a finger or foot in a tub of warm water with Epsom can help soften skin and reduce inflammation to easily remove a stubborn splinter.
- Fungus
Epsom salt is a traditional treatment for athlete’s foot and other toenail fungus. Soak in warm water to relieve symptoms like itching and burning.
- Skin Care
Epsom salt is a great exfoliator. Rub a handful of Epsom into damn skin to remove dead cells for a soft and silky touch. To get rid of pesky blackheads, mix a teaspoon of Epsom with a few drops of iodine and add to a half cup of hot water. Wait for water to become warm and massage into skin. Let it dry completely and wash with warm water.
- Hair Care
Remove product buildup and renew your tender scalp and tresses with a mixture of a cup of Epsom and half a cup of lemon juice or vinegar to a gallon of water. Let mixture sit for 12 hours and then thoroughly soak hair and massage into scalp. Let sit for 20 minutes followed by washing and rinsing as usual. Add extra volume by adding equal parts deep conditioner and Epsom salt, massage into hair and let set for 20 minutes before rinsing.
- Hand Care
Mix Epsom salt with MCT oil and keep it at your kitchen sink to gently moisturize and exfoliate hands after doing the dishes. Add a few drops of lavender or ylang ylang essential oil for an added sensory kick.