My Top 6 Uses For Epsom Salts

In my earnest opinion, Epsom Salt is among the best natural remedy for a vast number of every day ailments.  And, because there is research to back-up many of the claims, I find myself often recommending its use to clients.  One added benefit (provided my clients take my advice and use it) is that its use will save them time and money.  So, why tolerate those aches, pains or sleepless nights when you don't have to?

Here are my top 6 uses for Epsom Salts (in no particular order):

1. Stress Relief !!! - Add 2 cups of Epsom Salts to a hot bath, close the bathroom door (the world, including your cell phone, kids and the dog stay on the opposite side of the door), immerse your body in the Epsom Salt/water mixture and soak for about 20-30 minutes.

2. Soothe Sore, Tired and/or Strained Muscles - Add 2 cups of Epsom Salts to a hot bath, close the bathroom door, immerse your body, especially those specific sore muscles in the Epsom Salt/water mixture and soak for about 30 minutes.

3. Prevent Tired, Over-Worked Muscles BEFORE They Ache or Begin Hurting - Add 2 cups of Epsom Salts to a hot bath, close the bathroom door, immerse yourself in the Epsom Salt/water mixture and soak for about 30 minutes.  Do this after completing your strenuous activity, but before you sit down and relax or go to bed.  The less time you give the muscles following the activity, the less likely they are to stiffen-up and begin hurting.

4. A Natural Sleep-Aid (especially when infused with Lavender) - Add 2 cups of Epsom Salts to a hot bath, close the bathroom door (the world, including your cell phone, kids and the dog stay on the opposite side of the door), immerse yourself in Epsom Salt/water mixture and soak for about 30-40 minutes or until water feels like it is about room temperature.  For best results, do this just before going to bed.

5.  Reduce Swelling in Legs and Feet - Add 2 cups of Epsom Salts to a hot bath, close the bathroom door (the world, including your cell phone, kids and the dog stay on the opposite side of the door), immerse your feet and legs in the Epsom Salt/water mixture and soak for about 20-30 minutes.  (Note:  Ideal treatment for anyone who either stands or is on their feet a lot all day; especially when they have to get up and do it all again the next day)

6.  Relief For Itchy Rashes or Sunburn - Add 2 cups of Epsom Salts to a hot bath, close the bathroom door, immerse yourself in the Epsom Salt/water mixture and soak for about 20-30 minutes.  Another method is to mix 2 tablespoons of Epsom Salt with 1 cup of water, pour combination into a spray bottle and spray onto the affected area.  (Note:  If Rash continues to spread, contact your physician or seek further medical attention.  If you develop problems breathing, please call 911 or seek emergency medical attention as this may be a sign of something more serious).

Caution:  If you have Diabetes, please consult with your doctor BEFORE using Salts as it may impact your blood sugar levels and/or blood pressure.  Epsom Salt is magnesium based (whereas Himalayan Salts or regular Table Salt is sodium-based). Still, check the label to make sure of the packaging content before use.

How it works:  Epsom Salts contains minerals which breakdown into smaller particles in water.  These particles than seep through your pores and help to heal tired, over-worked muscles and tissues.  It also has anti-inflammatory properties which aid in alleviating minor irritations.  It can used used with regularity and frequency or, simply, on an 'as-needed' basis. 

However, if you find yourself needing to use Epsom Salts on an everyday basis (other than simply over a short period of time, ex. a month or so, to get you through a short-term strenuous project, etc.), than you may want to stop and consider 'what is the 'root cause' of your problem' and address the problem at its source to prevent long term damage to your body, mind and spirit.