Epsom salt baths have become a hot topic lately, although the healing benefits of Epsom salt have been used for ages.
Grandma may have used Epsom salt to help with minor health ailments such as a sprained ankle or a trapped splinter.
And nowadays, moms and healthcare fanatics are raving about the detoxing benefits of a hot Epsom salt bath.
So, who is right?
The truth is, Epsom salt baths can do both and so much more!
While Epsom salt soaks are great for these minor problems, Epsom salt baths can help your body absorb magnesium and even help your body expel toxins!
Not to mention Epsom salt baths are a great way to destress after a long day!
Wondering what Epsom salt is?
To start, it’s not your normal table salt you’d find in your kitchen pantry.
Epsom salt is otherwise known as magnesium sulfate heptahydrate and does all kinds of great things when you soak in it like ease tired muscles and treat injuries.
Not sure where to start?
Check out these amazing benefits of an Epsom salt bath.
Magnesium Absorption
According to Healthline, 75 percent of Americans are not reaching their daily magnesium levels each day.
In fact, magnesium deficiencies cause all kinds of problems in the body such as muscle cramps, high blood pressure, and heart problems.
Still, think not getting enough magnesium is not a big deal?
Magnesium is an important mineral and is needed to help the body perform well and function at its best.
Medline Plus reported:
“Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps to maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, keeps the heart beat steady, and helps bones remain strong. It also helps regulate blood glucose levels and aid in the production of energy and protein. There is ongoing research into the role of magnesium in preventing and managing disorders such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.”
The good news is, according to the Epsom Salt Council, taking an Epsom salt bath is a safe way to increase sulfate and magnesium in the body.
Detox
Think about all the toxins we consume on a daily basis.
Even those of us who are health conscious are still loaded with toxins.
Although not all experts agree, proponents of Epsom salt baths rave about the detox benefits.
Medical News Today reported:
“The two main ingredients of Epsom salt are magnesium and sulfate. It is believed the combination of both ingredients stimulates detoxification pathways.
Magnesium is a natural substance that aids a variety of bodily functions, including the removal of toxins. Sulfate can strengthen the walls of the digestive tract and make releasing toxins easier.”
And since Epsom salt is a natural laxative, it can help keep things moving!
Better Sleep and Stress Release
You might be one of many Americans who struggle with insomnia.
The good news is, many people have found they sleep better after soaking in an Epsom salt bath.
In addition, a nightly Epsom salt bath is a simple way to relax after a stressful day – after all nothing is more soothing than a hot bath.
In fact, as Freedom Health News previously reported, they are must-add to help reduce your daily stress levels! Link “Add These Daily Routines To Your Life To Help Combat Stress” Article – was submitted to FHN but not posted yet)
Dr. Oz even raves about the amazing benefits of Epsom salt baths, and claims they can even help you lose weight.
Final Thoughts
Epsom salt baths are a great way to help your body absorb magnesium and can help you detox.
A word of caution –be careful with the temperature of the water. If the water is too hot (above 100 degrees) and you sit in the bath for too long, you can get headaches or become dizzy.
Experts recommend Epsom salt baths should last about 15 minutes and you should start with using 2 cups of Epsom salt.
Consider having a bottle of water near the tub to stay hydrated and if you do feel dizzy step out of the tub and make sure you lay down to rest.
Avoid putting lotion on right after the bath to keep your pores open and unclogged.
And as a final bonus, add a few drops of essential oil like peppermint or lavender for an even more relaxing spa-like experience!
Do you take regular Epsom salt baths? If so, what other benefits have you noticed?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with your friends and family to let them know the health benefits of Epsom salt baths!
