Learn why and how to use Epsom salt. Last medically reviewed on April 26, 2018, Epsom salt foot soaks may help improve foot health, though the research is limited. The most common use is taking whats called an Epsom salt bath. For this effect, combine equal parts conditioner and Epsom salt. It may also soothe skin affected by skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. Unlike table salt, which is composed of sodium and chloride, Epsom Salt is composed of magnesium sulfate. It is essential to be cautious when getting in and out of the bathtub to avoid slipping, as the oil can make the baths surface slippery. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Moisturize skin year-round. Healthy magnesium levels can boost brain neurotransmitters that are responsible for inducing sleep and reducing stress. Adults should combine 26 teaspoons (tsp) of Epsom salt with 8 ounces of water and then drink. This article reviews the benefits, safety, and side, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Myth or reality transdermal magnesium? Many people report that taking Epsom salt baths improves symptoms of fibromyalgia and arthritis. First of all, the magnesium sulfate in it can have a laxative effect. Many people, including some healthcare professionals, claim Epsom salt is therapeutic and use it as an alternative treatment for several conditions. These chemical messengers impact every aspect of daily life, including sleep, mood, and concentration. Practitioners most likely to use infrared therapy include some chiropractors, osteopaths, physical therapists and massage therapists. In 1755, a British chemist and physicist named Joseph Black conducted experiments on the chemical properties of magnesium sulfate. In this article, we look at the benefits, risks, and evidence. In practice, Eric takes a developmental approach to rehabilitation utilizing the Selective Functional Movement Assessment. Its results should be taken with a grain of salt. After a few days, you can soak your ankle in a warm bath with Epsom salt. If you don't have any ice or gel packs, then use a frozen bag of veggies from your freezer. (2020). Your orthopedist will clear you when it is safe for you to drive. In a 2014 animal study, researchers treated rats with either magnesium sulfate or saline before placing them on a treadmill. Some people claim its a useful addition to facial wash, since it may help cleanse pores. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Its also needed to maintain a regular heartbeat, sufficient blood glucose, and strong bones. Epsom salt is Magnesium Sulfate and ingesting excess magnesium while on dialysis is not a real good idea. One of the best ways to reduce pain and discomfort after a hemorrhoidectomy is by taking a warm sitz bath. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. Start wearing them day and night, then after a few weeks, switch to just while you sleep. High concentrations of Epsom salt in your bath will increase the water's specific gravity (density) to the point where you will start to float just like in the Dead Sea, or Utah's Great Salt Lake because the body is, on average, much less dense than salty water. Epsom salt baths arent recommended for people with: Additionally, drinking Epsom salt as some online detox plans tout can cause serious side effects such as severe diarrhea, cautions Dr. Umeda. What are the benefits of Epsom salt foot soaks? Consuming Epsom salt can lead to side effects, including diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and muscle weakness. For a natural solution, ice and compression boots may help reduce swelling, which often is a source of pain. Magnesium is a natural substance that aids a variety of bodily functions, including the removal of toxins. Epsom salt dissolves in water and can be added to baths or used as a cosmetic. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. 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). Use Warm Water and Cold Packs. The rats that received magnesium sulfate had higher glucose levels during exercise and cleared lactic acid faster during recovery. Its thought to soothe tired muscles and reduce swelling. On the other hand, oral magnesium supplements may benefit sleep, stress, digestion, exercise, and pain in people who are deficient. Your doctor may also prescribe short-term antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Scientists need to perform more in-depth studies to confirm the effectiveness of using Epsom salt to treat various ailments. Epsom salt is a popular . Can diet help improve depression symptoms? You should also know that consuming Epsom salt may produce unpleasant side effects, such as bloating and liquid stool (13). In fact, some claim thattaking magnesium increases serotonin(happiness or relaxation hormone) production in your brain. If you have to walk around, use crutches to minimize the weight on your knee. The theory is that when you soak in an Epsom salt bath, these minerals get absorbed into your body through the skin. He holds a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science with a focus in Sports Medicine from Colorado State University and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Regis University. Pour the Epsom salt into warm running water. But, other studies investigating this show conflicting results. Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in less than one minute for common issues such as: colds and coughs, stomach symptoms, bladder infections, rashes, and more. Integrative medicineis a branch of healthcare that focuses on treating both the mind and body and exploring how they are closely connected. According to a 2017 review in the journal Nutrients, having low levels of magnesium could harm a persons quality of sleep and ability to cope with stress. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? He found the water acidic and bitter. Ultimately, time is going to be a huge factor, and you'll have to let the incision heal on its own. Temperatures between 92F and 100F (33C and 37C) are ideal. Warm baths can help to reduce stress and promote better sleep. Compressing the ice against your knee with a bandage or elastic support will also help control the inflammation, but don't tie it too tight because complete restriction of blood flow could cause more damage to your knee joint and lower leg. Simply combine it with your own cleansing cream and massage onto the skin. The magnesium sulfate in Epsom salt can produce side effects when taken by mouth. Splinters can be difficult to remove without pushing them further into the skin. This might worsen instead of reduce swelling. However, those with kidney disease or heart disease, pregnant women, and children should not consume it. The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. This treatment method involves dissolving a small amount of Epsom salt in water and drinking the mixture. Doctors typically provide answers within 24 hours. Soaking the feet in Epsom salts may also help reduce foot odor. It may also soften the skin and reduce itchiness. For hundreds of years, this salt has been used to treat ailments, such as electrolyte abnormalities, constipation, and eclampsia. ". These uses are entirely anecdotal and unsupported by any studies. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Try adding Epsom salts to a warm or somewhat hot bath 1-2 times per day. While recovering from hemorrhoid banding surgery, you'll want to avoid hard bowel movements that are difficult to pass. Letscher-Bru, V., Obszynski, C. M., Samsoen, M., Sabou, M., Waller, J., & Candolfi, E. (2013, February). Taking it orally can lead to sudden and dramatic changes in bowel behavior; this, in turn, can be very dangerous and cause dehydration and discomfort. Most people walk using crutches for three to four weeks then use a cane for two to three more weeks before they're able to walk normally. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In the human body, its necessary for muscle and nerve function and maintaining a healthy immune system. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The packaging should have ingredient and drug fact information printed on it. ", "It told me more than anyone about recovery after knee replacement. Many Epsom salt advocates believe the amount of magnesium able to enter the body through the skin is sufficient for reducing swelling and relieving aches. Its also easy to use, easy to find, and inexpensive. Epsom salt is a fast and gentle option to relieve constipation. With over a decade of experience, Eric works in both orthopedic and neurological fields and specializes in custom orthotic prescription and casting, vestibular reprogramming, and manual therapy. Failure to do so might cause a headache or mild nausea. See if Ritual products are right, It's no secret that vitamins can improve your health, but not all vitamins and minerals are created equal. Furthermore, never take more than the recommended dosage without first consulting a doctor. It is believed the combination of both ingredients stimulates detoxification pathways. Add 2-4 cups of Epsom salt to the water, adding it under the running tap water so the magnesium sulfate can dissolve. 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