Benefits Of Epsom Salts

Written by Danielle Lambert

Why So Salty…

Has anyone told you an Epsom salt soak would be great for your sprained ankle? Did you play for a coach who told you to do an Epsom salt soak? Have you ever had a massage where your massage therapist tells you to go home and soak in Epsom salt? I can’t tell you how many healthcare professionals have recommended this remedy to me! So clearly this stuff works, but why?

Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate. It is a chemical compound made up of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. Magnesium, which is the main ingredient in epsom salt, performs more functions in more systems of the human body than virtually any other mineral. It is a powerhouse for healing! Studies have shown that magnesium is an electrolyte that helps to ensure proper muscle, nerve and enzyme function. It is needed for the proper use of calcium in the cells. It also helps prevent heart disease and strokes by lowering blood pressure, protecting the elasticity of arteries, preventing blood clots there by reducing the risk of sudden heart attack deaths. It is also thought to increase the effectiveness of Insulin which helps to lower the risk or severity of current diabetes. It is beneficial for treatment of sore muscles, bronchial asthma, migraine headaches and fibromyalgia because of its anti-inflammatory properties. 

Epsom Salt also delivers sulfates. Sulfates are needed for the formation of brain tissue, joint proteins and the mucin proteins that line the walls of the digestive tract. Studies show that sulfates stimulate the pancreas to generate digestive enzymes. This helps the body to detox. While sulfates are difficult to absorb from food they are easily taken in through the skin. 

So many benefits out of one little bag of salt! The next time anyone recommends an Epsom Salt soak now you know that there is actually science behind. 

Here are some ways you can enjoy the benefits:

-For compressies: Use 2 cups of Epsom Salt per gallon of water for sore muscles, bug bites, and splinter removal.

-For soaking: Add two cups of Epsom Salt to warm water in a standard sized bathtub. Double the Epsom Salt for an oversized or garden tub. Popular for easing muscle pain and fading bruises. Bathe three times weekly, soaking for at least 12 minutes.

-Foot bath: Add a cup of Epsom Salt to a tub of warm water for aching feet.

Now go soak it up!

Meet Danielle: Lead Massage Therapist

Danielle is very passionate about Massage Therapy and its life-changing abilities. She has always worked to show people that massage is not a want or luxury, but a need. She has focused her career on educating her clients on the “why” at every opportunity. This allows her to build trust and get excellent results with her clients because they are willing to give their all when they understand the best way to get there.  Danielle believes massage therapy heals not only the physical pain we experience but the mental stress that we all have to deal with in everyday life.