Epsom salts are one of those things I’d always heard about and seen at the drug store, but never really bothered to look into for some reason. But once I became pregnant with our first baby, I quickly learned about and really appreciated the benefits of a healing, relaxing bath with epsom salts (both during pregnancy and for postpartum care!). Since then I’ve come across so many other wonderful uses for epsom salt!
What Is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt isn’t really a salt at all; it’s actually a mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate and is named after a spring in Epsom, England, where it occurs naturally. It’s readily available at most drug stores, and can be found online in bulk here (affiliate link). Magnesium plays many roles in the body including reducing inflammation and regulating muscle and nerve function. Sulfates help the body absorb nutrients properly and flush out the toxins. This mighty combination makes epsom salt a natural miracle for the mind, body, and soul.
Magnesium is the 4th most abundant mineral in our bodies, but we’re also chronically deficient in it for a number of reasons. The soil in which our food is grown is deficient of this mineral, and our diet and lifestyle choices deplete our body’s magnesium. Many foods contain magnesium, but it’s very difficult for our bodies to get the recommended amount from food alone. That’s why it’s best absorbed right through the skin in the form of salts, oils, and lotions.
Benefits of Epsom Salt
Some of the many healing benefits of epsom salt include:
- Ease stress and stress related problems
- Flushes toxins from the body
- Relieves pain and inflammation
- Regulates muscle and nerve function
- Prevents blood clots and hardening of arteries
- Makes insulin more effective
- Relieves constipation
Uses for Epsom Salt
I’m quickly realizing that the uses for epsom salt are seemingly endless. Everything from health and beauty to home and garden – this stuff seriously rocks! Here are some of the many ways you can use epsom salt, broken down by category:
Detox Bath
A detox bath helps to flush toxins from the body, relax muscles, relieve stress, and promote restful sleep. The basic recipe includes epsom salt, baking soda, and some lavender essential oil for relaxation. Add some powdered ginger for a soothing herbal 
Body Scrub/Polish
Use epsom salt in your body scrubs to exfoliate and soften the skin and remove dead skin cells. Try this basic coconut oil salt scrub, or get a little creative with this sweet orange coffee scrub. This beach body polish also looks very interesting, as it aims to replicate the same effect that the salty beach water leaves on your skin.
Face Mask
Epsom salt can also be used to make this detoxifying face mask which also includes the healing benefits of bentonite clay and green tea.
Foot Bath
Add some epsom salt to your detoxifying foot bath, and use the salts to gently scrub away any dry, rough skin. This foot bath can also help get rid of foot odor, relieve symptoms of athlete’s foot, and treat toenail fungus.
Relieve Itchy Skin
Dissolve 1/4 cup of epsom salt in 1 cup of warm water, and allow to cool. Use either in a spray bottle for spot applications or to make cold compresses.
Pest Control
Spraying a solution of epsom salt water on your plants and lawn can help control insects without harming the grass. Sprinkle some epsom salt near doorways and entry points to prevent slugs and snails.
Fertilizer
The magnesium and sulfur in epsom salt are great for houseplants, flowers, and vegetables. Sprinkle some around the plants once a week and work it into the soil to help them absorb the beneficial nutrients. Roses, tomatoes, and palm trees love epsom salt!
Tile Cleaner
Make a paste with epsom salt and dish soap, and use it to gently scrub away soap scum in bathrooms, sinks, and showers without scratching the surface.
Remove Splinters
Soak the affected area in a warm epsom salt bath to help draw out the splinter.
How do you use epsom salt around your home?
Further Reading:
20 Epsom Salt Uses {Living The Nourished Life}
DIY Beauty Treatments With Epsom Salt {Mom Always Finds Out}
21 Uses for Epsom Salt {Wellness Mama}
Photo Credit: Grant Cochrane / Freedigitalphotos.net
Original article and pictures take http://naturesnurtureblog.com/2014/04/05/benefits-uses-for-epsom-salt/ site
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