Epsom salt is an ingredient used in a soak to treat minor aches and pains. As a medication administered intravenously, it can stave off premature birth and alleviate seizures caused by several conditions, including magnesium deficiency, preeclampsia, and eclampsia.
Epsom salts dissolve in water. Enthusiasts believe this allows magnesium and sulfates to be readily absorbed into skin. Whether this is sufficient for various treatments or not, Epsom salt is considered safe. This is because hot water can temporarily lower blood pressure.
The Mayo Clinic recommends adults use 2 cups of Epsom salt per gallon of warm water. More than that can make the water feel slippery. It may also be drying to your skin. Soak for at least 15 minutes. This might worsen instead of reduce swelling. Shop for Epsom salts for your bath. Many Epsom salt advocates believe the amount of magnesium able to enter the body through the skin is sufficient for reducing swelling and relieving aches. A review of studies indicates that larger and more methodical studies on topical application of Epsom salt need to be done.
One study found that magnesium salts can be effective for dry skin and for reducing inflammation. As a folk remedy, Epsom salt is used on a widespread basis to provide relief for a variety of conditions. These include:. Doctors also administer it intravenously. Always check with your doctor before using Epsom salt by mouth.
Follow the package instructions exactly. Too much magnesium can cause an irregular heartbeat and low blood pressure. During a drought in , a local cow herder named Henry Wicker bent down to drink from a pool of water in Epsom Common. He found the water acidic and bitter. An Epsom salt bath may provide pain relief and reduce swelling in people living with certain types of inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis , lupus , gout , and psoriatic arthritis.
Low levels of magnesium can ease the pain in people with arthritis. Epsom salt contains magnesium and may help the body get rid of toxins responsible for exacerbating inflammation while also reducing swelling, stiffness, and pain.
Healthy magnesium levels can boost brain neurotransmitters that are responsible for inducing sleep and reducing stress. Magnesium may also promote melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone. People feeling stressed and overwhelmed may benefit from taking an Epsom salt bath.
Some research has found that people who are suffering from mental and physical stress benefit when their magnesium levels are managed. While the study looked at oral supplements, Epsom salt could have a similar effect. Taking a warm bath can also help a person relax by allowing them to release muscle tension and recuperate after a long day. A person can bathe in a tub with Epsom salt water or soak feet in warm water and Epsom salt to help feet heal faster and relieve itching.
Splinters can be difficult to remove without pushing them further into the skin. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath for a few minutes can reduce inflammation in the affected area, soften the splinter, and make it easier to remove.
Epsom salt should be dissolved with plenty of water if it is going to be consumed orally. Adding lemon can improve the taste. While oral consumption of Epsom salt is safe in very small doses, there is no credible evidence that consuming it has any detoxifying effects. Anyone considering drinking or eating Epsom salt should consult a doctor first.
Many medications, including acetaminophen, can interact with Epsom salt. The packaging should have ingredient and drug fact information printed on it. Epsom salt can be purchased at a health food store, some pharmacies, or online. To take an Epsom salt bath, add 2 cups of Epsom salt when running a bath in a standard size bathtub. The salt will quickly dissolve if put under running water. The water should be warm but not too hot. A person can then soak in the bath for 12 to 20 minutes, or longer if desired, and they should avoid using soap.
People should rest for at least 1 hour after a detox bath or take a bath at bedtime so that they can go to sleep afterward. Olive oil contains antioxidants and can also help soften the skin when added to a bath. Any type of foot soak might help reduce odor and clean the feet. Keeping the feet clean and free from bacteria is beneficial for overall foot health. A foot soak involves immersing the feet in warm water. Follow these steps to use Epsom salt in a foot soak:. An Epsom salt foot soak can dry out the feet, so it is best not to do it every night.
Try soaking the feet once or twice a week to make sure it does not cause dryness. Always end your foot soak with moisturizer! Be sure to purchase Epsom salts and foot soaks intended for human use. All Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, but manufacturers produce a range of salts for different purposes.
Chemically, all Epsom salt is the same, but it is available in different grades. Look for Epsom salt that has USP designated on the label. Epsom salt suitable for foot soaks is available to buy at pharmacies, health food stores, and online. For most people, an Epsom bath foot soak is safe.
But there are a few instances when it is best to talk to a healthcare provider before using. For example, people that have very dry skin should avoid overdoing foot soaks because the salt can dry out the skin leaving the feet more prone to cracks.
Foot soaks of any type are not safe for people who have diabetes due to the increased risk of infection. Regularly soaking the feet may increase dryness, which can lead to cracking and raise the risk of infection.
Individuals that have open wounds or sores should also talk with their doctor before using a foot soak. A foot soak may not provide enough relief from certain foot problems. Consider seeing a healthcare provider if any of the following symptoms are present:. Other Foot Soaks When using essential oils, only a few drops are needed. In addition to Epsom salt, other types of foot soak that contain different ingredients might help ease pain and improve foot health.
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