The 10 Most Useful Things You Can Do With Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is actually a natural mineral compound of
magnesium and sulfate.
1.
Bath
According to the National Academy of
Sciences, most Americans are deficient in magnesium, a mineral that helps
support many vital bodily functions. If left unchecked, a magnesium deficiency
can lead to serious health issues down the road. So how can we get more
magnesium? It’s Epsom salt to the rescue!
Doctors say that soaking in an Epsom
salt bath is a safe, easy way to increase the body’s levels of both magnesium
and sulfate, because these minerals are both readily absorbed through the skin.
(So if anyone gives you a hard time about your long, luxurious soaks in the
tub, you can tell them it’s good for your health!)
To do an Epsom salt soak, add 2 cups
of Epsom salt to warm water in a standard-sized bathtub (double the amount of
Epsom salt for oversized tubs.) Aim to soak for at least 12 minutes, and DO NOT
USE SOAP. Soap will interfere with the action of the salts. Rest for about two
hours afterwards, or better yet, take your bath just before bed! You’ll be sure
to sleep like a baby!
2. Foot Soak
If you don’t have a bathtub, or just aren’t all that fond of soaking in a tub, try a foot soak instead! Add 1/2 cup of Epsom salt to a basin of warm water, and soak your feet for 20 minutes.
Your body will absorb the magnesium and sulfate through your feet, so
you’ll still get the benefits of a full-body soak (but maybe not the
relaxation of a good bath!)
3.
Ease Constipation
Epsom salt is a natural laxative
that can be used to relieve constipation. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt in
a glass of water and drink. It will taste extremely bitter, but it works!
4.
Hair Volume
A simple Epsom salt treatment will
leave your hair feeling soft and full of body! Add equal parts of a deep
conditioner and Epsom salt to a saucepan and stir to combine. Place the pan on
your stovetop over low heat, just until the mixture is warmed through. Work the
conditioner and Epsom salt mixture through your hair, then rinse after 20
minutes.
5.
Garden Fertilizer
Studies show that Epsom salt may
help plants grow greener with higher yields and more blooms. Magnesium helps
seeds to germinate, increasing chlorophyll production and improving phosphorus
and nitrogen uptake.
6.
Racoon Deterrent
A few tablespoons of Epsom salt
spread around your garbage cans will help deter pesky raccoons, who don’t like
the taste of the stuff.
7.
Splinter Remover
Dissolve around 1 cup of Epsom salt
in a tub of water, and soak the area where the splinter is located. The soak
will help to draw out the splinter, making it easier to remove with a pair of
tweezers.
8.
Slug Deterrent
Sprinkle Epsom salt where you see
slug activity and say good-bye to the slugs.
9.
Soothe Insect Bites
Use Epsom salt to reduce swelling
and itching from insect bites. Make a compress by soaking a cotton washcloth in
cold water that has been mixed with Epsom salt (two tablespoons per cup,) then
apply to the skin.
10.
Skin Exfoliation
Mix a handful of Epsom salt with
enough olive oil or baby oil to create a paste. Gently rub it on your face for
deep pore cleansing, or use it on heels, elbows and other rough areas. Rinse and
pat dry.