Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) is a pure, time-tested mineral compound with a wide range of usages.

It is popular for adding to bathing water through which it can supply the body with the two main natural chemical ingredients since the absorption through the skin is the best way to get these essential substances.

The history of Epsom Salt

It all started back in 1618. A farmer in Epsom noticed that his cows did not prefer to drink the water on his farm because of its bitter taste.

He also found out that the same bitter water has the ability to speed up the healing of scratches and skin issues like rashes. Word spread slowly, and Epsom salt was born.

Epsom became the first Spa town, even though in later years was overtaken by towns who spa water springs were able to produce greater quantities of water.

Looking and feeling good

Epsom Salt is known for its effectiveness in beauty treatments, and in well-being and general health. The two main usages of Epsom Salt as beauty treatments are for improving the quality of your hair and enhancing skin health.

Epsom salt and skin health

Our body is constantly producing new cells. The old cells die and the new ones replace them at a rate about 1 million a day. The majority of the dust that is in your house is made up of your dead skin cells. Within 1 year, we shed about 8 pounds of dead skin.

The outer layer of the skin is constantly covered in dead skin cells. If they are not completely removed they can remain behind and clog up the new skin cells. This is the reason why we exfoliate. Exfoliation is the process in which we slough off all the dead skin, leaving the healthy new skin cells to breathe easily.

Epsom salt is a great exfoliator

You need to apply something slightly abrasive in order to exfoliate successfully. But, that should not be too abrasive because you can make your skin sore. Apply handfuls of Epsom Salt to wet or damp skin and rub it well.

Then, wash it off, or to get even more benefits, you can relax in an Epsom Salt bath. You can also add some olive oil to your bath water which acts as a skin moisturizer. Add ½ cup into a tub full of water or less if you prefer. It all depends on the natural oil content of your skin.

Epsom salt as an acne treatment

Epsom salt is extremely beneficial in the case of acne. The exfoliation process is essential since it cleans the pores of your skin. This incredible salt has powerful antimicrobial properties which can fight off any acne bacteria.

Epsom salt as a hair care treatment

Epsom salt can help you to remove toxins, add volume to your hair, and clean your scalp. Just add Epsom salt to your hair conditioner and apply it on your scalp. Let it stand for 20 minutes then you can rinse with warm water.

The benefits of Epsom Salt for health and well-being

As we mentioned before, adding Epsom salt to your bath water is the best way in order to obtain the maximum benefits. You need to add 2 cups of Epsom salt per bathtub.

The roles of magnesium and sulfate

Magnesium is a mineral essential for the proper function of your body systems. It plays an important role in the regulation and activity of more than 325 enzymes, some of which are responsible for reducing the hardening of the arteries, enhancing muscle and nerve function, and reducing inflammation.

Sulfate, on the other hand, can increase the body’s absorption of nutrients and promote detoxification. Working together, the combination of these two powerful compounds can provide a number of health benefits, including:

• Relives joint pain
• Reduces tension and stress
• Prevents hardening of the arteries
• Soothes and relaxes sore muscles
• Improves bone integrity
• Reduces the risk of diabetes through enhanced insulin management
• Helps to prevent blood clots from forming
• Helps to lessen bruise inflammation
• Soothes sprain pain
• Helps to prepare your body for a good night’s sleep
• Helps the body to detox

You can obtain all of these benefits, by taking Epsom Salt bath 2-3 times a week. Also, there are other health benefits that Epsom Salt can provide when administered differently:

• Foot health: In order to soothe foot pain, eliminate any odor, and soften rough and hard skin, you should add half a cup of Epsom salt to a bowl of warm water and soak your feet in
• To treat constipation: Add 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt to a glass of water. The magnesium sulfate found in Epsom salt can draw water into the bowel, thus softening any stools and making them easier to pass. However, before using, you should consult with your doctor.
• Bug bites and skin inflammation: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt into half a glass of warm water and let it cool. Then, you can apply to the affected
• Mild sunburn: The same solution for bug bites can be used to soothe mild sunburn.

Source: healthylifecenter.net