Epsom salt is something I always have on hand because it’s a great source of magnesium, which has plenty of household, beauty, and health applications. Due to its versatility, I make sure there’s some in almost every room!
First off, let’s not confuse Epsom salt with regular table salt or Himalayan salt. Epsom salt is a magnesium-based “salt,” known scientifically as magnesium sulfate, and it’s a simple, affordable way to boost your magnesium intake. Many people are deficient in magnesium, partly because its levels are dropping in our food and environment. Using Epsom salt at home and in beauty routines is a straightforward way to increase magnesium.
Keep in mind, though, it can act as a strong laxative so be cautious about ingesting it without consulting a doctor. Health science is always changing, and while there is evidence supporting transdermal magnesium benefits, more studies are needed to determine exactly how much penetrates the skin.
Personally, I believe no natural remedy works for everything, and Epsom salt is no exception. Nonetheless, there’s substantial proof that it’s safe and useful in many ways. Here are some of my favorite ways to use this affordable magnesium-rich household staple:
1. Relaxing Baths: Epsom salt baths have been popular since it was discovered in Epsom, England. The magnesium content makes for a soothing soak, and I often add some to my kids’ baths to help them sleep. Just add a cup to warm bathwater, and you can even add lavender essential oil for extra relaxation.
2. Splinter Removal: Kids inevitably get splinters from playing outside, and removing them used to be a hassle. Now, I soak the area in a warm Epsom salt solution, making removal much easier and less painful.
3. Foot Soak/Scrub: After a long day, a foot soak or scrub with Epsom salt can work wonders on sore feet. Just mix Epsom salt with some oil and castile soap to create a luxurious scrub.
4. Facial Exfoliant: For a skin-firming and exfoliating boost, I add Epsom salt into my face wash routine. Grinding the salt into a fine powder helps it mix better with face washes or cleansing oils.
5. Body Aches: After experiencing whole-body chills from using Biofreeze incorrectly for a stomach flu, I turned to Epsom salt baths for muscle aches, which work perfectly.
6. Hair Texture: I was inspired to make a DIY beach waves spray with Epsom salt after falling in love with a stylist’s texturizing spray but not its price tag.
7. Soothing Magnesium Lotion: To counteract the tingly feel of magnesium spray, I started making a calming magnesium lotion, which has become an essential for our family.
8. Garden Helper: Epsom salt also serves as a great plant supplement. I add a tablespoon per plant a couple of times a year to boost growth, especially for tomatoes.
9. Salt Scrubs Replacement: Substitute Epsom salt in typical salt-scrub recipes for added magnesium benefits.
10. Cleaning: Mix Epsom salt with liquid dish soap to scrub tiles and grout, then rinse thoroughly.
11. Foot Soak Only: If a full bath isn’t appealing, soaking just your feet can also provide magnesium benefits and relaxation.
12. Hair Conditioner Add-In: Combine Epsom salt with conditioner for a texturizing and strengthening hair treatment.
13. Itchy Skin Relief: A solution of Epsom salt in water can be sprayed onto bug bites to soothe itching.
14. Sunburn Relief: A mixture of Epsom salt, water, and lavender essential oil can calm painful sunburns.
15. Occasional Constipation: Epsom salt is known for serving as a constipation remedy, though you should consult a professional before using it in this way.
16. House Plant Booster: A sprinkle of Epsom salt in the soil now and then helps indoor plants thrive.
17. Slug Deterrent: Epsom salt can be used around gardens to keep pesky slugs at bay.
18. Rose Bush Growth: Adding Epsom salt around rose bushes encourages quicker growth and more blooms.
19. Headache Relief: Increasing magnesium intake, whether through Epsom salt baths or lotions, may reduce headaches.
20. Bedtime Routine for Kids: A bath or massage lotion with Epsom salt can help children sleep more soundly and for longer durations.
21. Soil Enrichment: During gardening, mixing Epsom salt into the soil helps maintain magnesium levels, promoting plant health.
Overall, I mainly buy my Epsom salt online, but it’s also available at local stores. Just ensure it’s USP certified with no added ingredients. Feel free to share your own tips on using Epsom salt!
