Magnesium sulphate, commonly known as Epsom salt, is a wonderful addition to the home medicine cabinet. It is a naturally occurring pure mineral. Many people have tried it at least once in a warm bath to relieve the pain of sore muscles caused by arthritis, over-exertion, or a tough workout session.
Epsom salt is quite inexpensive and can be purchased in most grocery and drug stores. Look for it in a bulk food store for an even greater savings. When purchasing Epsom salt, choose salts with large coarse grains.
The Healing Benefits of an Epsom Salt Bath
Taking a warm bath is already a relaxing experience. Adding Epsom salts brings even more benefits. The salts work by inducing perspiration, which causes toxins to be eliminated through the skin.
- relaxes sore muscles
- boosts the immune system
- good for easing the pain of arthritis
- eases back pain
- soothes PMS symptoms
- helps to relieve insomnia
- good for overcoming jet lag (bathe as soon as possible after traveling)
- creates a magnetic balance in the body
Creating the Optimal Epsom Salt Bath
Start by running a warm, not too hot, bath. Aim for a water temperature of around 35 C (95 F). While the bath water is running, prepare the Epsom salt mixture. In a separate glass container, pour boiling water over one half to one pound of Epsom salt. This insures that the salts are properly dissolved. Once the mixture is ready, pour it into the bathwater and swish around by hand.
Relax and soak in the bath for around 15-20 minutes. Drink a glass of water during the bath to support the detoxifying process.
Leave the use of any soap products to the end of the bath time. According to Chrissie Wildwood's The Bloomsbury Encyclopedia of Aromatherapy, soap interferes with the effectiveness of the Epsom salt and will block the elimination of toxins from the body. Soapy products include shampoo, bubble bath, bath oils and liquid or bar soap. Save those until after the main soaking period or avoid altogether.
Reap the Benefits by Resting after the Epsom Salt Bath
The time immediately after the Epsom salt bath is just as important to the healing process as the bath itself. Wrap up warmly and rest for a half to two hours to get the best effect. Do not apply any lotions or oils until after the resting period as the skin will still be throwing off toxins. Perspiration during this time is normal. Drink plenty of pure, filtered water.
Optional Additions to the Epsom Salt Bath
Baking soda is highly alkaline and is a natural skin softener. Add one to two tablespoons of baking soda to the Epsom salt and boiling water mixture before pouring it into the bathwater.
Essential oils add a naturally soothing scent to the Epsom salt bath. Add up to six drops of a favourite oil or combination of oils. A few good choices are lavender, rose and chamomille. Use only high quality pure essential oils, not perfume oils. Perfume oils are synthetic, have no healing properties, and will counter the positive effects of the bath.
Those who are pressed for time and find themselves too busy to run a full bath could opt for an Epsom salt footbath instead. When the feet are relaxed and refreshed the whole body benefits. For a footbath, use two tablespoons of Epsom salt and soak for 10-20 minutes or as time permits.
A Few Cautions About Epsom Salt
This article is not intended as a replacement for medical advice. Those with heart conditions or high blood pressure should check with their health care provider before taking Epsom salt baths. Pregnant women can take Epsom salt baths after the first trimester but should only use essential oils under the care of a trained aromatherapist. Consult a doctor if there are any concerns.
Reference:
Wildwood, Chrissie, The Bloomsbury Encyclopedia of Aromatherapy, Bloomsbury Publishing, 1996
Shirley Boonstra-Rollpiller - Shirley Boonstra-Rollpiller has been happily involved in the Healing Arts in various forms for over a decade. She is a certified Level ...
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