How does Epsom salt work as a laxative. What is the correct dosage for adults and children. Are there any side effects or precautions to consider. Can Epsom salt baths also help relieve constipation. What are the common causes of constipation and how can it be prevented.

Understanding Epsom Salt: Composition and Discovery

Epsom salt, despite its name, is not actually a salt like table salt. It’s a naturally occurring mineral compound composed of magnesium and sulfate. This unique substance was first discovered centuries ago in Epsom, England, hence its name. Unlike sodium chloride (table salt), Epsom salt has a variety of uses beyond seasoning food, including as a natural remedy for constipation.

The chemical composition of Epsom salt gives it properties that make it useful for both external and internal applications. When used internally, it can act as an osmotic laxative, drawing water into the intestines to soften stool and promote bowel movements.

Where to Find Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is widely available and can be found in various retail locations:

• Drugstores
• Grocery stores
• Discount department stores

When purchasing Epsom salt for internal use, it’s crucial to choose plain, unscented varieties. These are typically found in the laxative or personal care sections of stores. Scented Epsom salts, even those with natural oils, should never be ingested as they may contain additives not safe for consumption.

How Epsom Salt Works as a Laxative

Epsom salt’s effectiveness as a laxative stems from its ability to increase the amount of water in the intestines. When ingested, it draws water into the digestive tract through osmosis. This additional water softens the stool, making it easier to pass and alleviating constipation.

The magnesium in Epsom salt also plays a role in its laxative effect. Magnesium is known to relax muscles, including those in the intestinal walls, which can help stimulate bowel movements. This dual action of increasing water content and relaxing intestinal muscles makes Epsom salt an effective and gentle laxative option for many people.

How quickly does Epsom salt work for constipation?

Epsom salt typically produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to six hours after ingestion. This variability in response time can depend on factors such as individual metabolism, severity of constipation, and dosage. If no results are seen after four hours, the dose can be repeated, but it’s important not to exceed the recommended daily limit.

Proper Dosage and Administration of Epsom Salt

Using the correct dosage of Epsom salt is crucial for both effectiveness and safety. The recommended dosage varies depending on age:

1. For adults and children 12 years and older: Dissolve 2 to 4 level teaspoons of Epsom salt in 8 ounces of water.
2. For children 6 to 11 years old: Dissolve 1 to 2 level teaspoons of Epsom salt in 8 ounces of water.

In both cases, the mixture should be consumed immediately after preparation. If the taste is unpalatable, adding fresh lemon juice can help make it more tolerable.

Important Dosage Considerations

• Do not exceed two doses per day
• Avoid using for more than one week without consulting a doctor
• If no bowel movement occurs after two doses, seek medical advice
• Never use Epsom salt as a laxative for children under 6 years old

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While Epsom salt is generally considered safe when used correctly, it can cause some side effects, particularly if overused. Common mild side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Cramping
• Bloating
• Gas
• Diarrhea

More serious complications can arise from excessive use of Epsom salt or any laxative. Overuse may lead to an electrolyte imbalance in the body, potentially causing:

• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Confusion
• Seizures

Who should avoid using Epsom salt as a laxative?

Certain individuals should consult their doctor before using Epsom salt for constipation relief:

• People with kidney disease
• Those on a magnesium-restricted diet
• Individuals experiencing severe stomach pain
• Anyone with persistent nausea or vomiting
• Those with a sudden change in bowel habits lasting two weeks or more

External Use of Epsom Salt for Constipation Relief

While internal use of Epsom salt is the primary method for constipation relief, external application through baths may also provide some benefits. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath might help relax the gut and soften stool as magnesium is absorbed through the skin.

How to prepare an Epsom salt bath

1. Fill a bathtub with warm water
2. Add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt
3. Stir to dissolve the salt
4. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes

While Epsom salt baths are generally safe for most people, they should not be used as a substitute for proper hydration and dietary measures to prevent constipation. If constipation persists, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

Common Causes of Constipation

Constipation can be caused by various factors, many of which are related to lifestyle choices. Understanding these causes can help in prevention and management of the condition. Common causes include:

• Low-fiber diet
• Lack of physical activity
• Dehydration
• Stress
• Overuse of laxatives
• Certain medications
• Hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy)

In some cases, constipation may be linked to more serious conditions such as:

• Intestinal blockages
• Pelvic floor muscle problems
• Neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
• Diabetes
• Thyroid problems

Preventing Chronic Constipation

While Epsom salt can provide temporary relief from constipation, it’s crucial to address the underlying causes to prevent chronic issues. Here are some strategies to maintain regular bowel movements:

Increase Fiber Intake

A diet rich in fiber is essential for maintaining digestive health. Aim to include a variety of high-fiber foods in your daily meals:

• Fruits (e.g., apples, pears, berries)
• Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• Whole grains (e.g., oats, brown rice, quinoa)
• Legumes (e.g., beans, lentils, chickpeas)
• Nuts and seeds

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial for preventing constipation. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and increase this amount if you’re physically active or in hot weather. Herbal teas and water-rich foods can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity stimulates intestinal muscles and promotes regular bowel movements. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include activities such as:

• Brisk walking
• Jogging
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Yoga

Develop a Consistent Bathroom Routine

Establishing a regular time for bowel movements can help train your body. Try to use the bathroom at the same time each day, preferably after meals when the gastrocolic reflex is strongest.

Manage Stress

Stress can disrupt normal digestive function. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine:

• Meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Regular physical activity
• Adequate sleep

Avoid Overuse of Laxatives

While laxatives like Epsom salt can provide temporary relief, overuse can lead to dependence and worsen constipation in the long run. Use laxatives sparingly and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While occasional constipation is common, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying health issue. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Constipation lasting more than three weeks
• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Constipation accompanied by fever

A healthcare professional can help determine the cause of chronic constipation and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, or medical interventions.

Conclusion: Epsom Salt as Part of a Holistic Approach to Digestive Health

Epsom salt can be an effective short-term solution for constipation relief when used correctly. Its ability to draw water into the intestines and soften stool makes it a gentle alternative to stimulant laxatives. However, it’s important to remember that Epsom salt should not be relied upon as a long-term solution for chronic constipation.

Maintaining good digestive health requires a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, proper hydration, and stress management. By incorporating these lifestyle factors and using Epsom salt judiciously when needed, individuals can promote regular bowel movements and overall digestive wellness.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. With the right approach, most cases of constipation can be effectively managed, leading to improved comfort and quality of life.

How to Use Epsom Salt for Constipation Relief

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Taking Epsom salt by mouth has a laxative effect. It can increase the amount of water in your intestines and make stool easier to pass but may cause mild side effects.

Constipation happens when your stool takes longer to move through your digestive tract and becomes hard and dry. This can lead to fewer bowel movements or none at all. It may be chronic or temporary. Either way, the condition can be very uncomfortable.

Epsom salt is known for its ability to soften skin, soothe tired feet, and relieve muscle aches. It’s often used in do-it-yourself bath salts and skin scrubs. You can take it by mouth to relieve constipation.

It’s thought to be easier on the body than stimulant laxatives.

Epsom salt looks like table salt, or sodium chloride, but it isn’t made of the same ingredients. It’s made from the minerals magnesium and sulfate. It was first discovered centuries ago in Epsom, England.

Epsom salt is available at drugstores, grocery stores, and some discount department stores. It’s usually found in the laxative or personal care section. When you take Epsom salt for constipation, use plain varieties. Don’t ingest scented varieties, even if the scent is made from natural oils.

In most cases, Epsom salt is safe for adults and children over 6 years old to use. Infants and children under 6 years old shouldn’t use Epsom salt internally or externally.

Consuming Epsom salt increases the amount of water in your intestines, which softens your stool and makes it easier to pass.

To treat constipation with Epsom salt, follow dosage guidelines.

For adults and children 12 years old and older, dissolve 2 to 4 level teaspoons of Epsom salt in 8 ounces of water and drink the mixture immediately.

For children 6 to 11 years old, dissolve 1 to 2 level teaspoons of Epsom salt in 8 ounces of water and drink immediately.

If you find the taste is hard to tolerate, try adding fresh lemon juice.

Epsom salt usually produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to six hours.

After four hours, the dose can be repeated if you don’t get results. But taking more than two doses of Epsom salt daily isn’t recommended.

Don’t use it for more than one week without consulting your doctor, and contact your doctor if you don’t have a bowel movement after two doses.

Using Epsom salt externally might also relieve constipation. Soaking in it may help relax your gut and soften your stool as you absorb magnesium through your skin. This may help produce a bowel movement.

Talk to your doctor before using Epsom salt if you have:

• kidney disease
• a magnesium-restricted diet
• severe stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• a sudden change in your bowel habits lasting two weeks or more

Side effects of Epsom salt | Side effects

When it’s used correctly, Epsom salt is considered safe. Since it has a laxative effect, it’s important to drink plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration while using it.

All laxatives, including Epsom salt, may cause mild gastrointestinal issues like:

• nausea
• cramping
• bloating
• gas
• diarrhea

If they’re overused, laxatives may cause an electrolyte imbalance in your body. This may lead to symptoms like the following:

• dizziness
• weakness
• an irregular heartbeat
• confusion
• seizures

Causes of constipation | Causes

Constipation is often caused by lifestyle factors, such as:

• a low-fiber diet
• a lack of exercise
• dehydration
• stress
• laxative overuse

Women may also experience constipation during pregnancy.

Serious conditions that are linked with constipation include:

• intestinal blockages
• pelvic floor muscle problems
• neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, or Parkinson’s disease
• diabetes
• thyroid problems

Epsom salt is just a temporary fix. If you don’t identify the cause of your constipation and take steps to prevent it, you’ll likely experience it again. Your constipation may even become chronic. Ironically, the more you depend on laxatives, the worse your constipation may become.

Try the following tips to avoid chronic constipation:

Move more

The more you sit, the harder it is for waste to move through your intestines. If you have a job where you’re sitting most of the day, take a break and walk around each hour. Try setting a goal of taking 10,000 steps per day. Regular cardio exercise also helps.

Eat more fiber

Add more insoluble fiber to your diet from food sources like:

• fruits
• vegetables
• whole grains
• nuts
• seeds

Insoluble fiber adds bulk to your stool and helps move it through your intestines. Aim to consume 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day.

Drink more water

When your body becomes dehydrated, so does your colon. Be sure to drink plenty of water or other non-sugary beverages, like decaffeinated tea, throughout the day.

Reduce stress

For some people, stress goes right to their gut and causes constipation. Try managing stress through:

• meditation
• yoga
• psychotherapy
• walking

Talk to your doctor if your stress feels unmanageable.

Check your medications

Some medications, like opioids, sedatives, or blood pressure drugs, may cause chronic constipation. If you take medications that cause constipation, ask your doctor if a non-constipating alternative is available.

When it’s used as directed, Epsom salt is an effective alternative to stimulant laxatives for relieving constipation.

As long as you use Epsom salt in recommended doses, the side effects are generally mild. In the case of laxatives, less is more. Use as little as necessary to get results.

If you have any concerns about Epsom salt or you experience serious side effects, stop using it and contact your doctor.

Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects

Epsom salt can be used as a supplement, bath salt, or beauty product. It’s also associated with very few side effects and may offer several potential health benefits.

Epsom salt is a popular remedy for many ailments.

People use it to ease health problems, such as muscle soreness and stress. It’s also affordable, easy to use, and harmless when used appropriately.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Epsom salt, including its benefits, uses, and side effects.

Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate. It’s a chemical compound made up of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen.

Despite its name, Epsom salt is a completely different compound than table salt. It was most likely termed “salt” because of its chemical structure.

It has an appearance similar to table salt and is often dissolved in baths, which is why you may also know it as “bath salt. ” While it looks similar to table salt, its taste is distinctly different. Epsom salt is quite bitter and unpalatable.

Some people still consume it by dissolving the salt in water and drinking it. However, due to its taste, you probably don’t want to add it to food.

For hundreds of years, this salt has been used to treat ailments, such as electrolyte abnormalities, constipation, and eclampsia. Unfortunately, its effects on many other conditions are not well researched (1).

Most of the reported benefits of Epsom salt are attributed to its magnesium, a mineral that a lot of people do not get enough of (2).

You can find Epsom salt online and at most drug and grocery stores. It’s typically located in the pharmacy or cosmetic area.

Summary

Epsom salt — otherwise known as bath salt or magnesium sulfate — is a mineral compound believed to have many health benefits.

When Epsom salt is dissolved in water, it releases magnesium and sulfate ions.

The idea is that these particles can be absorbed through your skin, providing you with magnesium and sulfates — which serve important bodily functions.

Despite claims on the contrary, there is no good evidence that magnesium or sulfates are absorbed into your body through the skin (3).

Yet the most common use for Epsom salt is in baths, where it is simply dissolved in bathwater.

It can also be applied to your skin as a cosmetic or taken by mouth as a laxative or magnesium supplement. However, because of its laxative effects, it might not be an ideal choice as a magnesium supplement if your goal is to prevent deficiency (4).

Summary

Epsom salt dissolves in water and can be added to baths or used as a cosmetic. However, there is no evidence that your body can absorb its minerals through the skin.

Many people, including some healthcare professionals, claim Epsom salt is therapeutic and use it as an alternative treatment for several conditions.

Provides magnesium

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, the first being calcium (5).

It is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions that benefit your heart and nervous system (5).

Still, many people do not consume enough magnesium (2).

While magnesium sulfate can be used as a magnesium supplement, some people claim that magnesium may be better absorbed via Epsom salt baths than when taken by mouth.

However, this claim is not based on any available evidence and research shows that magnesium sulfate is very poorly absorbed, even when taken orally (6).

Proponents of this theory point to an unpublished study in 19 healthy people. The researchers claimed that all but three of the participants showed higher blood magnesium levels after soaking in an Epsom salt bath.

However, no statistical tests were performed and the study lacked a control group (7).

Some other studies have also evaluated the effects of Epsom salt baths on blood magnesium levels, but these studies have turned up conflicting results and are of questionable quality (3).

Therefore, while it may be possible for magnesium to be absorbed through the skin, more large, high quality studies are needed (3).

Promotes sleep and stress reduction

Adequate magnesium levels are essential for sleep and stress management, likely because magnesium helps your brain produce neurotransmitters that induce sleep and reduce stress (8, 9).

Low magnesium levels may negatively affect sleep quality and stress. Some people claim that taking Epsom salt baths can reverse these issues by allowing your body to absorb magnesium through the skin. However, this hasn’t been scientifically proven.

It’s also possible that the calming effects of Epsom salt baths are simply due to the relaxation caused by taking hot baths.

Helps with constipation

Magnesium is often used to treat constipation.

It appears to be helpful because it draws water into your colon, which promotes bowel movements (10).

Most often, magnesium is taken by mouth for constipation relief in the form of magnesium citrate, magnesium hydroxide, or magnesium oxide (11).

Taking Epsom salt may also be effective, although it is not as well-studied as other forms. Nevertheless, the FDA lists it as an approved laxative (4, 12).

It can be taken by mouth with water according to the directions on the package.

You should also know that consuming Epsom salt may produce unpleasant side effects, such as bloating and liquid stool (13).

It should only be used occasionally as a laxative, not for long-term relief.

Exercise performance and recovery

Some people claim that taking Epsom salt baths can reduce muscle soreness and relieve cramps — both important factors for exercise performance and recovery.

It is well known that adequate magnesium levels are helpful for exercise because magnesium helps increase the availability of glucose in the blood, muscles, and brain while reducing the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles (14).

While relaxing in a hot bath may help soothe aching muscles, there is no high quality evidence that people absorb bathwater magnesium through their skin (3).

On the other hand, oral supplements can effectively stave off magnesium insufficiency or deficiency.

Athletes are prone to low magnesium levels, so health professionals often recommend that they take magnesium supplements to ensure optimal levels (15).

While magnesium is clearly important for exercise, the use of bath salt to enhance fitness is not well researched. At this point, the supposed benefits are purely anecdotal.

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.

Again, the magnesium is deemed responsible for these effects, since many people with fibromyalgia and arthritis are deficient in this mineral (16, 17).

One 2015 study in 15 women with fibromyalgia concluded that applying magnesium chloride to the skin may be beneficial for reducing symptoms (18).

However, this study was based on questionnaires and lacked a control group. Its results should be taken with a grain of salt.

Summary

Most of the purported benefits of Epsom bath salts are anecdotal. On the other hand, oral magnesium supplements may benefit sleep, stress, digestion, exercise, and pain in people who are deficient.

While Epsom salt is generally safe, there are a few negative effects that can occur when you take it by mouth.

First of all, the magnesium sulfate in it can have a laxative effect. Consuming it may result in diarrhea, bloating, or upset stomach (4, 13).

If you use it as a laxative, make sure to drink plenty of water, which may reduce digestive discomfort. Furthermore, never take more than the recommended dosage without first consulting a doctor.

In extreme cases, magnesium overdose can lead to heart problems, altered mental status, and death. This is unlikely as long as you take it in appropriate amounts as recommended by a doctor or listed on the package (19, 20).

Contact a doctor if you experience signs of an allergic reaction or other serious side effects.

Summary

The magnesium sulfate in Epsom salt can produce side effects when taken by mouth. You can prevent these by using it correctly and talking with a doctor before increasing your dosage.

Here are a few of the most common ways to use Epsom salt.

Bath

The most common use is taking what’s called an Epsom salt bath.

To do this, add 2 cups, or about 475 grams (g), of Epsom salt to the water in a standard-sized bathtub and soak your body for at least 15 minutes.

You can also put the Epsom salt under running water if you want it to dissolve more quickly.

While hot baths can be relaxing, there is currently no good evidence for the benefits of an Epsom salt bath in itself.

Beauty

Epsom salt may be used as a beauty product for skin and hair. To use it as an exfoliant, just place some in your hand, dampen it and massage it into your skin.

Some people claim it’s a useful addition to facial wash, since it may help cleanse pores.

Just a 1/2 teaspoon (tsp), or 2.5 g, will do the trick. Simply combine it with your own cleansing cream and massage onto the skin.

It can also be added to conditioner and may help add volume to your hair. For this effect, combine equal parts conditioner and Epsom salt. Work the mixture through your hair and leave for 20 minutes, then rinse.

These uses are entirely anecdotal and unsupported by any studies. Remember that it works differently for everyone and that you may not experience the reported benefits.

Laxative

Epsom salt can be taken by mouth as a magnesium supplement or as a laxative.

Though there are no official guidelines for how much you should take, many brands recommend taking 2–6 tsp (10–30 g) per day, dissolved in water, as a maximum for adults, or around 1–2 tsp (5–10 g) for children.

Consult with a doctor if you need a more individualized dosage or if you want to increase the dose to more than what is listed on the package.

Unless you have the consent of a doctor, never ingest more than the upper limit of intake stated on the package. Taking more than you need could lead to magnesium sulfate poisoning.

If you want to begin taking Epsom salt by mouth, start slowly 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 and what exactly you are using it for.

Additionally, when consuming Epsom salt, make sure to use pure, supplement-grade Epsom salt that does not have any added scents or coloring.

Summary

Epsom salt can be dissolved in baths and used as a beauty product. It can also be consumed with water as a magnesium supplement or laxative.

Epsom salt may be helpful for easing constipation when taken as a supplement. It can also be used as a beauty product or bath salt.

There isn’t a lot of evidence to support all of its reported benefits. Its positive effects are mostly anecdotal at this point, and more research is needed on its functions.

However, Epsom salt is generally safe and easy to use.

Epsom salt for weight loss: how Epsom salt affects the body The first is great for beauty rituals, removes excess fluid from the body, starts metabolic processes, helps get rid of redness and minor inflammation, the second is more suitable for experiments in the kitchen. Learn more about how Epsom salt works and how to use it correctly.

What is Epsom salt?

Epsom salt or magnesium sulfate is a white crystalline powder or large crystals. They are easily soluble in water, have a bitter and very salty taste. Epsom salt can be easily purchased at drugstores or organic beauty stores. Salt is best stored away from light, heat and moisture.

How to use Epsom salts?

Detox Bath

Magnesium sulfate is particularly well absorbed through the skin, so a salt bath is a great way to heal and balance magnesium levels. Studies show that athletes after a 12-minute bath with salt significantly increased the level of magnesium in the blood, which helped them to recover faster after a serious workout.

Salt bath properties:

• relieves pain and muscle tension;

• restores the fluid balance in the body;

• has a positive effect on the nervous system;

• improves skin quality and softens it. Those who suffer from dry skin should add a few drops of oil to the bath;

• Stimulates the pancreas, a detoxification process so powerful that regular Epsom salt baths can help shed excess weight.

Bath Recipe

Add two cups of Epsom salt and a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath. It is recommended to lie in the water for at least 15 minutes.

Epsom Salt Body Scrub

Homemade Salt Scrub softens rough skin (elbows, heels, knees), stimulates blood circulation and has an anti-inflammatory effect. If the skin is irritated or sensitive, it is better to postpone peeling for a while.

Salt peel recipe

Mix Epsom salts with oil until slurry. Apply to the skin with massage movements, rinse with water.

Facial steam bath

Epsom salt is great for sensitive facial skin: it thoroughly cleanses pores and decontaminates, giving an even color and radiance.

Steam Facial Recipe

Add a couple of tablespoons of Epsom salts to a bowl of hot water. The face should be above the fumes, cover with a thick cloth or blanket from above. After the procedure, use a tonic and face cream.

Detox

Epsom salt can also be taken orally for medicinal purposes. It has two pronounced effects:

• salt acts on the body as a laxative.

• salt cleans the intestines and promotes detoxification during fasting. It naturally penetrates the gastrointestinal tract without irritating the intestinal mucosa and provides gentle cleansing.

Oral prescription

Mix three teaspoons of Epsom salt with 200-300 ml of water, stir well until the salt dissolves completely. It is best to drink the whole mixture at one time, the solution will be very bitter, you can add a few drops of lemon to it to make the taste less harsh. Before taking the mixture, you should consult your doctor, in some cases there may be side effects.

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Taking a bath is not just a cleansing ritual. If you use salt instead of the usual foam, then it turns into a pleasant detox process. Add to this not just cosmetic salt, but magnesium – and you will also get health benefits. The exhausted nervous system will be especially delighted with such a procedure.

Contents of the article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

What is English magnesium salt

This salt has many names – English, magnesium, bitter, Epsom. The latter comes from the British town of Epsom, where unique mineral springs were located. It was there in 169In the year 5, for the first time, white, but very bitter salt was evaporated from the water, which instantly became a medical remedy. True, they used it for very delicate reasons. It turned out that these small crystals, which are so easily confused with ordinary table salt, are an excellent laxative.

However, later (in the 18th century) it was discovered that Epsom salt was also good for nervous disorders. Baths with it improve sleep, relieve pain in muscles and joints, help maintain youth and beauty. So the small town gradually turned into a popular resort, where wealthy ladies and gentlemen preferred to relax and be treated. True, the mayor’s joy did not last long – soon the springs dried up.

ADVERTISING – CONTINUED BELOW

Today, magnesium salt is produced industrially, its composition has been known for a long time. These are magnesium, sulfur, water and oxygen – magnesium sulfate. The percentage of this substance is also strictly defined – 99% and no less! Quality Epsom salt should contain exactly this amount. So always ask the manufacturer and supplier for documentary evidence of this fact.

How magnesium baths affect the body

It is known that magnesium is not produced by the human body. However, Epsom salt baths will not make up for its deficiency; this will require foods rich in this element. But it is known that magnesium baths:

• Help to get rid of stress after a hard day
• Relieve muscle pain after training
• Calm and give a healthy sleep
• Allow to normalize the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for the formation of acne
• Restore the work of skin cells, in particular, start their regeneration
• Strengthen the protective barrier of the skin
• Improve blood circulation
• Reduce the risk of varicose veins
• Strengthen nail plates and hair

For whom magnesium baths are recommended

Actually, if there are problems with sleep, chronic fatigue and accumulated stress, this is already a good reason to take magnesium baths. Sometimes doctors recommend this method of recovery for certain diseases of the cardiovascular system, as well as the prevention of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory and endocrine systems, organs of vision. Often, such baths help travelers to adapt more easily when changing time zones. Also, those who are serious about fitness and body work can use this procedure to reduce pain in the muscles after strength training.

Epsom salt baths are a good help for those who care about the condition of their skin and hair. But the benefits of this method for losing weight have not been proven in any way. Many studies are based on the incorrect assertion that magnesium, with the help of hot water, penetrates through all layers of the skin into the body, where it begins its work to reduce extra pounds. However, this is very far from the truth. People still continue to replenish their magnesium reserves through food, but not baths.

How to make a magnesium bath at home

Magnesium baths are one of the key methods of balneotherapy, therefore they are most often taken as a course in sanatoriums. However, you can arrange a resort for yourself at home. This will require magnesium sulfate 99% (no less!) and hot water up to +38 ° C. Higher temperatures can cause discomfort, and those with low blood pressure can be brought to a fainting state.

As a rule, the dose of Epsom salts per bath for an adult is from 0.5 to 1 kg. For children, a little less is required – 0.3-0.5 kg (depending on weight, age and volume of the bath). Often there are recommended norms of magnesium sulfate for infants, but pediatricians still recommend waiting up to 4 years with the procedure.

When using complex recipes with multiple Epsom salt ingredients, much less is needed. But you should strictly observe the dosage indicated in the description.

How to take an Epsom salt bath

1. It is best not to eat an hour or two before taking a bath, so as not to feel heaviness in the stomach. However, this rule applies to all water procedures. So choose products wisely: a light salad and poultry meat are enough. But leaning on carbohydrates in the form of pizza, sweets or chips is not worth it.
2. When taking a bath, gradually dissolve the magnesium salt (and other ingredients) in it. It is important that the grains completely disappear, otherwise they will cause you some inconvenience.
3. Prepare drinking water or herbal tea. During the bath, it is better to indulge yourself with such drinks so that the body does not excessively remove liquid. Alternatively, drink a glass of water before and another after the procedure.
4. Take a bath for about 10-15 minutes. Adults can relax for up to half an hour. If this is your first time doing the procedure with magnesium salt, then stop at 7-10 minutes. The maximum time for children aged 4 and over is 20 minutes. But it’s better to start with 5 minutes.
5. And the main commandment for those taking baths with magnesia: never dive into water above the level of the heart. Also, for the sake of interest, you should not taste the resulting solution. As you remember, magnesium salt is too good a laxative.
6. Epsom salt baths are best taken regularly. The traditional course consists of 10 procedures that are done every 2 days. Then you need a break for 2 months.
7. After an Epsom salt bath, be sure to shower and finish with a nourishing or moisturizing cream.
8. It is advisable not to take magnesium baths in the morning, leave this pleasant procedure for the evening, it relaxes too well. Otherwise, you will simply lose your efficiency, and the to-do list will remain on paper. Take Epsom salt baths an hour or half an hour before bed. So you are guaranteed a sound and restful sleep.

Who is not suitable for magnesium baths

There are no special contraindications for magnesium baths, but they can be harmful to health in the presence of certain chronic diseases. So, if you have diabetes mellitus, progressive glaucoma, hypotension and hypertension, tumors of any nature (benign and malignant), thrombophlebitis, weeping eczema and some blood diseases, then be sure to consult your doctor.