The Benefits of Epsom Salt Baths

Epsom Salt is magnesium sulfate. Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body. It is estimated that about half of Americans do not consume adequate amounts of magnesium in the diet due to the increasing use of conventional farming and food processing practices such as refining grains in such a way that removes the nutrient rich bran and germ. Magnesium has wide-ranging functions in the body and is particularly essential to nerve function. Inadequate intake may predispose to neurological disorders such as chronic pain, migraine, anxiety, depression and cognitive decline (1, 2).

Magnesium is effectively absorbed through the skin (3). And an Epsom Salt (magnesium sulfate) bath can not only replenish magnesium stores but is reported to ease sore muscles, loosen stiff joints as well as calm the nervous system therefore reducing stress levels and promoting sleep.

I recommend an Epsom salt bath in the evening before bed 3 times per week to replenish magnesium stores, calm the nervous system, promote sleep and relieve sore muscles and stiff joints.

Directions:

1. Pour 2 cups of Epsom salt under warm, running bath water.

2. Soak in the tub approximately 15 minutes.

3. Just relax.

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1. Cherbuin N, Kumar R, Sachdev PS, Anstey KJ. Dietary Mineral Intake and Risk of Mild Cognitive Impairment: The PATH through Life Project. Front Aging Neurosci. 2014;6:4.

2. Kirkland AE, Sarlo GL, Holton KF. The Role of Magnesium in Neurological Disorders. Nutrients. 2018;10(6).

3. Chandrasekaran NC, Sanchez WY, Mohammed YH, Grice JE, Roberts MS, Barnard RT. Permeation of topically applied Magnesium ions through human skin is facilitated by hair follicles. Magnes Res. 2016;29(2):35-42.