Epsom salt side effects: Benefits, baths, other uses, and side effects

16.05.202121.07.2023 by alexxlab

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Benefits, baths, other uses, and side effects

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How to take an Epsom salt bath

If a person is unsure about how to use Epsom salts in their bath, they can follow these steps:

Use 2 cups of Epsom salt for a standard-size bathtub.
Pour the Epsom salt into warm running water.
Soak in an Epsom salt bath for 15–30 minutes or up to 1 hour.

A person may consider adding the following essential oils to help them relax and get to sleep:

lavender
rose
bergamot
jasmine
eucalyptus

Drinking Epsom salt

If a person drinks Epsom salt, they could experience a laxative effect, which may help relieve constipation.

Adults should combine 2–6 teaspoons (tsp) of Epsom salt with 8 ounces of water and then drink.

When people drink small doses of Epsom salt, they may not experience any side effects. However, there is not enough evidence supporting its use for treating any health conditions other than constipation.

Learn more about using Epsom salt to relieve constipation here.

A person with any underlying medical condition should speak to their doctor before trying Epsom salt. People living with kidney disease must not consume Epsom salt.

Magnesium from oral supplements or an Epsom salt bath may provide the following health benefits:

Improving exercise performance and recovery

Some people take magnesium before a workout. This may help remove the lactic acid that builds up in muscles during exercise and improve future performance.

In a small 2015 study, researchers found short-term magnesium supplementation was associated with improved bench-press performance among 13 athletes.

When a person takes magnesium after a workout, it may also reduce recovery time and prevent muscle soreness. In a 2014 animal study, researchers treated rats with either magnesium sulfate or saline before placing them on a treadmill.

The rats that received magnesium sulfate had higher glucose levels during exercise and cleared lactic acid faster during recovery.

Pain relief

People who do not have enough magnesium may experience painful muscle cramps and chronic inflammation. Underlying health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, may also affect magnesium absorption.

An Epsom salt bath may help soothe sore muscles and reduce inflammation. However, experts are unclear whether Epsom salt is directly responsible for these effects.

Stress relief

Magnesium contributes to the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transport signals between neurons, or nerve cells. These chemical messengers impact every aspect of daily life, including sleep, mood, and concentration.

According to a 2017 review in the journal Nutrients, having low levels of magnesium could harm a person’s quality of sleep and ability to cope with stress.

If a person takes an Epsom salt bath, it may help their skin absorb magnesium, which could relieve stress and promote relaxation. But, other studies investigating this show conflicting results.

Treating constipation

For many people, drinking Epsom salt is generally safe. However, those with kidney disease or heart disease, pregnant women, and children should not consume it. A person should speak with their doctor if they are unsure about drinking Epsom salt.

People can use Epsom salt as a laxative to treat constipation. This treatment method involves dissolving a small amount of Epsom salt in water and drinking the mixture.

People may not experience any side effects after taking an Epsom salt bath. However, people with sensitive skin could develop a skin rash or contact dermatitis.

The following people should avoid consuming Epsom salt orally as they may experience unwanted and potentially dangerous side effects:

people who are pregnant
people who have kidney disease
people who have heart disease
children

If a person drinks Epsom salt, they may experience the following side effects:

dizziness or fainting
upset stomach
diarrhea
blurry vision
changes in bladder habits
irregular heartbeat
difficulty breathing
muscle weakness
extreme fatigue

Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, is a naturally occurring compound that contains magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. It has a crystalline structure similar to that of common table salt, or sodium chloride.

Epsom salt is unlike table salt as it tastes bitter and is not a suitable ingredient for cooking. People use Epsom salt for its supposed healing and detoxifying properties.

The theory suggests that dissolving Epsom salt in water helps the skin absorb magnesium ions. These regulate numerous essential bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood pressure, and inflammation.

However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the claims that the body absorbs magnesium ions through the skin. Scientists need to perform more in-depth studies to confirm the effectiveness of using Epsom salt to treat various ailments.

Some research suggests the skin may absorb magnesium and sulfate ions dissolved in water. The authors of one 2017 review article cited several studies with conflicting results about whether or not magnesium can pass through the skin barrier.

While magnesium transporters carry magnesium ions across cellular membranes, the outermost layer of the skin consists of dead cells that do not have these transporters.

The authors also claim that magnesium ions are nearly 400 times larger when hydrated, making it almost impossible for them to penetrate the skin.

However, in a 2016 study, researchers found that magnesium can pass through the outer layer of skin. They also reported that the concentration of magnesium and the length of exposure directly affects how much magnesium the skin can absorb.

Scientists need to conduct further research to confirm the health benefits of magnesium products, specifically Epsom salt.

Epsom salt is a natural remedy that may help relieve muscle pain, inflammation, and constipation. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support these claims.

Epsom salt is generally safe for most adults and children. However, certain people should avoid drinking Epsom salt solutions. Consuming Epsom salt can lead to side effects, including diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and muscle weakness.

Epsom salt is available to purchase in stores and online.

Benefits and how it works

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Soothe the skin

Epsom salt bathwater can soften rough, dry skin, and exfoliate dead skin cells. It may also soothe skin affected by skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.

It is a good idea to check with a doctor before soaking in Epsom salt if a person has a skin condition, as it may make the symptoms worse.

Reduce soreness and pain

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.

Reduce stress

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.

Promote foot health

Epsom salt may help treat athlete’s foot and ingrown toenail infections. 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.

Soaking the feet in Epsom salts may also help reduce foot odor.

Draw out splinters

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.

However, the only benefit of drinking Epsom salt is as a laxative when someone is constipated.

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.

Share on PinterestAn Epsom salt bath can help soothe and soften the skin and may help with pain relief for those with arthritis.

It is recommended to only purchase Epsom salt that has USP on the label, which means it has been tested for human use, according to standards set by the United States Food and Drug Association (FDA).

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. Temperatures between 92°F and 100°F (33°C and 37°C) are ideal.

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.

Other things that can be added to an Epsom salt bath to enhance its effects include:

Olive oil

Olive oil contains antioxidants and can also help soften the skin when added to a bath. A person can use olive oil by adding ½ a cup of the oil as the bath is filling with water.

It is essential to be cautious when getting in and out of the bathtub to avoid slipping, as the oil can make the bath’s surface slippery.

Using olive oil in a bath is not recommended for children or older adults who are prone to falling.

Essential oils

Adding therapeutic oils can make a detox bath more relaxing. Some oils people can try include:

lavender
vanilla
bergamot
frankincense
eucalyptus

Essential oil needs to be diluted before being applied to skin, and so it is best to dilute it with a carrier oil before bathing.

A mixture of 3 to 5 drops of essential oil per ½ to 1 ounce of carrier oil is usual. Carrier oils can be sweet almond oil, coconut oil, or even olive oil. A little essential oil goes a long way, so it is important to add only a few drops of the diluted oil into a full bath.

Baking Soda

Baking soda has been shown to have antifungal properties and may help reduce irritating germs. It may also soften the skin and reduce itchiness.

Share on PinterestEpsom salt can interact with medications and be dangerous for some people if consumed.

Epsom salt baths are normally safe, even for children. However, oral consumption of Epsom salt may be dangerous for pregnant women, children, and people with kidney conditions.

Epsom salt overdoses are rare but can cause serious side effects, including:

extreme fatigue
blurry vision
dizziness and fainting
problems breathing
slow heart rate
muscle weakness
urination changes

More research is needed to prove the benefits and detoxifying effects of Epsom salt baths. However, people who use Epsom salt baths for detoxification believe in their benefits, such as relaxation, pain relief, and softening the skin.

Warm baths can help to reduce stress and promote better sleep. Adding Epsom salt can be a part of a healthy relaxation routine.

how and why to use Epsom salt

Epsom salt is a popular remedy for many ailments. It can be used to alleviate health problems, as well as in beauty treatments. Here’s why you should stock up on Epsom salt.

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dietary supplements

Diet for constipation

Sea salt

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Epsom salt is a real trend in the field of beauty and wellness, and the scope of its application is truly impressive.

Contents of the article

Epsom salt is an affordable and harmless product for relieving muscle pain, relieving stress and even losing weight. We looked at all the nuances of using Epsom, as well as the pros, cons and side effects of this tool to improve well-being.

What is Epsom salt?

Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate. It is a chemical compound consisting of magnesium, sulfur and oxygen. It takes its name from Epsom, Surrey, UK, where it was originally discovered.

Despite its name, Epsom salt is a completely different compound than regular salt. Most likely, it was called salt only because of its chemical structure.

Epsom looks like table salt. Because of this, it is often used during water procedures and is called bath salt. In fact, Epsom salts are quite bitter and unpleasant in taste. However, some people still take it internally, dissolving it in water and drinking it. However, due to the taste, despite all the benefits, it is impossible to use Epsom salt in cooking.

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Epsom salt has been used for hundreds of years to treat ailments such as constipation, insomnia and fibromyalgia. Unfortunately, its effect on these conditions is not well understood.

Most of the claimed benefits of Epsom salts are due to their magnesium content, a mineral that many of us don’t get enough of.

Have you heard about the benefits of Epsom salts before?

How does Epsom salt work?

When Epsom salt dissolves in water, magnesium and sulfate ions are released. It is believed that these particles can be absorbed through the skin, providing the body with magnesium and sulfates that perform important bodily functions. But nevertheless, at the moment, scientists do not have convincing evidence that magnesium or sulfates are absorbed into the body through the skin.

Most often, this salt is used during bathing: a large amount of it (about 400-500 grams) must be dissolved in warm water. Sometimes a concentrated solution of Epsom salts is applied to the skin as a cosmetic and taken orally as a magnesium supplement or in larger quantities as a laxative.

Epsom salt proven health benefits

Epsom salt is believed to have therapeutic properties. Because of this, a number of medical professionals (most often followers of non-traditional teachings) use Epsom salt as an alternative remedy for treating diseases.

Epsom salt provides the body with magnesium

Magnesium is considered the fourth most important mineral in the body. It is involved in over 325 biochemical reactions that benefit the heart and nervous system.

Many people do not get enough magnesium. Even if you monitor the level of this component, metabolic processes can affect how magnesium is absorbed by the body. In addition, some experts claim that while taking a bath, magnesium is absorbed better than if taken orally, but this fact does not have widely known evidence.

Promotes quality sleep and stress reduction

Adequate levels of magnesium in the body are needed to improve sleep and reduce stress, probably because magnesium helps the brain produce neurotransmitters that improve these factors. Magnesium also helps produce the “sleep hormone” melatonin.

Low magnesium levels can negatively affect sleep quality and stress levels. But in the case of Epsom salts, it is more likely that the calming effect is due simply to the relaxation caused by taking hot baths.

Helps with constipation

Magnesium is often used to treat constipation. Magnesium is most commonly taken orally to relieve constipation in the form of magnesium citrate or magnesium hydroxide. However, taking Epsom salt is also considered effective, although not well understood. Epsom salts are on the list of approved laxatives in a number of countries.

Salt can be taken orally with water according to package directions. Adults are usually advised to take 2-6 teaspoons (10-30 grams) of Epsom salts at a time, mixed with a glass of water. The laxative effect occurs after 30 minutes – 6 hours. However, be aware that epsom salts can cause unpleasant side effects such as bloating and loose stools. Epsom salts as a laxative should be used occasionally, in emergency situations. And better on the recommendation of a doctor.

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Exercise efficiency and recovery

Epsom salt baths are believed to help reduce muscle soreness and cramps after workouts and get in shape faster for new physical activities.

Of course, magnesium does help the body to tolerate exercise more easily, as well as to absorb glucose and lactic acid. In addition, relaxing in a hot bath does reduce muscle pain, but there is no reliable evidence that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin.

Professional athletes tend to be deficient in magnesium. And most often, doctors prescribe them magnesium supplements by mouth. If you want to increase your magnesium levels, it’s better not to count on the full effect of hot baths with Epsom salts. Start taking dietary supplements with magnesium, but only after consulting a specialist.

Reduced pain and swelling

Another common claim is that Epsom salt helps reduce pain and swelling. Many people report that taking Epsom salt baths improves symptoms of fibromyalgia and arthritis.

Magnesium baths are considered helpful in these cases, as many people with fibromyalgia and arthritis are deficient in magnesium. And by the way, one study in 15 women with fibromyalgia found that applying magnesium chloride to the skin could be helpful in reducing symptoms. However, these results are considered too small and not well-tested to provide a proven benefit for Epsom magnesium salt concentrate.

Safety and side effects

Although Epsom salt is generally safe, there are several negative effects that can occur if used incorrectly, all of which relate to ingestion of salt.

First, as we have already said, magnesium sulfate can have a laxative effect. Its use can lead to diarrhea, bloating, or indigestion.

If you are using Epsom salts as a laxative, drink as much water as possible to reduce GI discomfort. Also, never take more than the recommended dose without first consulting your doctor. Some cases of magnesium overdose have been reported when people took too much Epsom salt. Overdose symptoms include nausea, headache, dizziness and skin redness. In extreme cases, an overdose of magnesium can lead to heart problems, coma, paralysis, and death. But this is unlikely if you take the remedy in the appropriate amounts recommended by your doctor or indicated on the package

If you experience signs of an allergic reaction or other serious side effects after taking Epsom salt, contact your doctor immediately.

How to Use Epsom Salt

Here are some of the most common uses for Epsom Salt.

Salt bath

Epsom salts are most commonly added to bath water. Pour 2 cups (about 400–500 grams) of Epsom salts into hot water and take a bath for about 15 minutes. As we’ve said before, hot baths can be relaxing, but there’s currently no convincing evidence for a greater benefit from Epsom salt baths.

How to make your own aroma oil for a bath – an idea for a budget gift!

Beauty

Epsom salt can be used as a cosmetic product for skin and hair. To use it as an exfoliator, simply take the granules in your hand, moisten and rub into the skin.

Some internet users claim that salt can be used as a pore cleanser. To do this, mix 0.5 teaspoon of Epsom salts with a regular cleanser and apply the mixture on the skin with massaging movements.
Epsom salts can also be added to the conditioner to add volume to the hair. To do this, mix equal parts conditioner and epsom salt. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave for 20 minutes, then rinse.
In general, these uses of Epsom salts are not supported by any research and work in much the same way as adding table salt or sea salt to your beauty routine. So it’s not worth betting on the miraculous effect of epsom.

Laxative

And again, more about this method. Epsom salts can be taken orally as a magnesium supplement or as a laxative. Most brands recommend taking 2-6 teaspoons (10-30 grams) of Epsom salts daily, diluted with water. Children usually need 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 grams). However, it is undesirable to use the supplement without a doctor’s recommendation – especially in excess of the norm.

If you want to try taking Epsom salt by mouth, start the process slowly. Try 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 grams) at a time and gradually increase the dose as needed.

Remember that everyone’s magnesium needs are different. You may need more or less than the recommended dose, depending on how your body reacts to the supplement and what exactly you are using it for.

Also, when using Epsom salts internally, be sure to use pure Epsom salts that do not contain any flavoring or coloring agents.

uses, benefits and contraindications –

24-05-2023 02:34

English, Epsom, magnesium, bitter – all this is one salt, which was obtained several centuries ago near a small English town. Since then, it has firmly established itself in the ranking of useful tools. Doctors prescribe it for increased fatigue, chronic stress, insomnia, body pain, skin problems.

What is so great about this product and how to use it correctly to achieve maximum effect? We learned about this from Dmitry Kadantsev, General Director of KAST-EXPO , a company whose main specialization is the production of products based on magnesium salt.

What is magnesium salt and how does it differ from ordinary sea salt? It tastes bitter, and despite the fact that it looks like ordinary salt, it is not used in cooking. But it is actively used in cosmetology and medicine.

It differs from the usual bath salts in its composition: ordinary salt is sodium chloride, English salt is magnesium sulfate. At the same time, the packaging indicates what percentage of the substance the product contains. So, the best indicator of quality at the moment is 99.9% magnesium sulfate content. The remaining 0.01% are impurities.

Another difference is the effect on the skin. While Epsom salt improves skin and hair condition, reduces inflammation, makes the surface supple and smooth, sea salt dries the skin and removes moisture, which in some cases leads to itching and irritation.

Epsom salts are considered the best bath salts today.

Epsom salt, 3 kg

from 586 ₽

Buy on the brand website Due to the lack of this substance, the nervous system suffers, muscle cramps, joint pain, metabolic disturbances, apathy, insomnia, and so on appear. Therefore, when correcting these conditions, in addition to dietary supplements, doctors prescribe Epsom salt baths. And in some cases, when the problems become chronic, such baths are taken on a regular basis.

Magnesium salt is also very useful for children. Baths with it relieve tension, relax, relieve the symptoms of hypertonicity, help with diaper rash and dermatitis, and stabilize emotions. Children after such baths sleep soundly and sweetly.

Epsom salt for children, 1.2 kg

from 464 ₽

postoperative period, oncology, epilepsy. In general, all those conditions in which it is not recommended to stay in hot water for a long time.

Beauty recipes: how to properly take magnesium baths

For maximum relaxation we recommend:

Take warm water. At the same time, it is important that the water temperature is not lower than 37 degrees, otherwise there is a chance to get an invigorating, rather than relaxing effect.
Add 250-500 grams Epsom salts. If desired, you can drop a few drops of essential oil to enhance the healing effect and get your favorite aroma.
Take a bath for no more than 30 minutes (ideally 15-20).
Remember to drink clean water during the procedure. Take care of this in advance – take a glass of drinking water or herbal tea with you.

Scented candles, relaxing music and a favorite book will add to the spa effect.

How else can you use magnesium salt at home

In addition to general baths, you can do baths for hands and feet – for example, before manicure and pedicure. It has been proven that the shortest transdermal route of exposure is through the feet (that is, the skin absorbs better in this area of the body). Magnesium also strengthens the nail plates.

But the most interesting thing is the opportunity to make a variety of scrubs for the scalp and body. It is enough to mix salt with shampoo or honey, then apply to the skin and gently massage. Thanks to such simple manipulations, blood circulation improves, lymph accelerates, and a light massage effect is obtained. Detailed recipes can be found on the website KAST-EXPO .

For those who do not want to bother, there are ready-made scrubs based on Epsom salts. It is also a very entertaining product that stimulates metabolic processes.

Mint body scrub

from 429 ₽

Buy on the brand website

How KAST-EXPO products differ from similar products on the market

The quality of magnesium salt can be monitored by several indicators.