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I often recommend Epsom salt to my students to help relieve muscle soreness, pain and fatigue. This magic white powder that my elders swore by is actually quite effective. I remember my grandma recommending it for constipation and any condition where there was swelling such as sprains, bumps and bruises. I really didn’t start appreciating Epsom salt until I developed fibromyalgia and battled near constant muscle fatigue, cramping and pain. Now I tell everyone who will listen to use Epsom salt.
Your body will thank you for using Epsom salt because it is soothing and easy to use. Simply put Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate. It is a salt of magnesium that dissolves in water. It has been used for centuries as a home remedy for muscle pain, swelling, sprains and much more. It has magnesium which helps the body in many ways. It relaxes the muscles which can help relieve stress. It reduces swelling and inflammation. This is especially useful when dealing with sprains and strains. It also helps in recovering from strenuous exercise or the general wear and tear of life because it reduces soreness, pain and fatigue.
Epsom salt is readily available from your local drugstore, pharmacy, beauty supply and grocery store. It comes in the traditional plain salt, scented bath salts or even liquid bath washes. With so many choices it is easy to find an option to meet your needs.
How to Use
There are many ways you can incorporate Epsom salts into your self care your hygiene routines. I use it in a variety of ways based on how much energy, time and the facilities available.
- Bath: for most of us a warm Epsom salt bath is the most accessible and beneficial. You can immerse your entire body in the soothing warm water. You can add a cup or two of Epsom salt to the tub before soaking. You can use scented Epsom salt if you like or add essential oils, flower petals and anything else to the water to help you enjoy the experience.
- Foot soak: if you don’t have access to a tub you try an Epsom salt foot soak. Use a foot spa or a foot sized container. Add a few cups of warm water and a few spoonfuls of salt. submerge your feet and relax. You can sup on some tea while you soak or enjoy some soothing music.
- Warm pack: A warm pack requires even less effort than a foot soak. Dissolve a few spoonfuls of the salt in a cup of warm water. Dampen some small towels or washcloths with the solution and place it on the affected part of your body. Replace when cool. You can place a dry cloth on your skin if the damp towel is too hot or uncomfortable.
- Scrub: One of my favorite ways to use Epsom salt is in a body scrub. I combine sea salt, pink Himalayan salt, Epsom salt, essential oils and the oil of my choice to make a rich and soothing scrub.
- Rinse: This is the easiest way to use Epsom salt especially for those who do not have access to a tub. Dissolve a few spoons of Epsom salt in a small bowl of water and pour it over your skin after your shower. Let it sit for a while then pat your skin dry or allow it to air dry.
If Epsom salt irritates your skin skip these treatments or rinse your skin in plain water afterwards.
Although Epsom salt has been used by many to relieve discomfort and muscle pain for centuries some of us have only recently discovered its benefits. There are many benefits to using Epsom salt. It reduces swelling, inflammation, pain and discomfort. You can choose how to use Epsom salt and it is readily available both in store and online. Share your stories below. Do you use Epsom salt? If you do, what is your favorite way to use it?
