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What are Some Uses for Epson Salt?

Ken Black
Ken Black

For decades, people have known about the refreshing properties of an epson salt foot bath. However, there are many other uses for the form of magnesium of which many may not be aware. Whether it is health or beauty applications, or even in the garden, epson salt may be one of the most beneficial products one can purchase.

The reason why the salt is so effective as a footbath and on the skin is due to its ability to regulate enzymes and draw toxins away from the body. The salt can also help draw metals away from the body and reduce stress. However, the footbath is not the only benefit.

Epson salts might provide headache relief.
Epson salts might provide headache relief.

In addition to immersion, using epson salt in a compress is another way to relieve aching joints and muscles. It is also a relief for those who suffer from headaches. It reduces inflammation which also helps reduce soreness in many situations. The salt is even used in the removal of splinters.

The recommendations for amounts vary depending on the application. For compresses, two cups per gallon of water (.47 liters of epson salt per 3.78 liters of water) is the ideal. Two cups (.47 liters) should also be used when soaking with epson salt in a bathtub. For footbaths, one cup (.23 liters) should be used.

Epsom salt (sometimes called "epson salt.").
Epsom salt (sometimes called "epson salt.").

Somewhat related to health, epson salt also has some applications for skin and hair care. The product is known as a very good exfoliant and makes the skin feel softer. To accomplish this, mix a little of the salt with a deep cleansing cream. Mixed with a conditioner, epson salts can even add volume to hair.

In the garden, the salt is thought to help seeds germinate more efficiently and with a greater rate of success. It also makes plant healthier as seen through fuller growth and more flowering. This is because magnesium is a vital mineral for seed germination and chlorophyll production, which is how plants get their energy. As plants are able to produce energy more efficiently, they naturally start looking healthier.

Epsom salt may be combined with water for a foot soak.
Epsom salt may be combined with water for a foot soak.

The usage amounts for gardening applications vary widely based on what the salt is being used to help. For houseplants, the recommendation is one ounce (28 grams) per gallon (3.78 liters) of water. For small plants such as roses and tomatoes, the recommendation is one tablespoon (14 grams) for every foot (.33 meters) of height.

As a usage note, it should be remembered the correct term is epsom salt. Colloquially it has become known as epson salt in many cases. In fact, in conversation, the term epson may be more commonly used than epsom. Still, it should be noted this is technically an incorrect usage of the term.

Discussion Comments

anon108706

I used Epson Salt to clean my wounds on my toenail

after I bumped it on the door. My nail was flipped over, and bleeding. I mixed the salt with warm water; not too hot, enough to avoid skin burn, and soaked it for 15 minutes every time, twice a day.

I applied antibiotic and pain relief cream over it after it air dried, then bandaged. My nail was removed naturally in five days without pain. I am waiting for my nail to be full grown. Happy ending.

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    • Epson salts might provide headache relief.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Epson salts might provide headache relief.
    • Epsom salt (sometimes called "epson salt.").
      By: Brooke Becker
      Epsom salt (sometimes called "epson salt.").
    • Epsom salt may be combined with water for a foot soak.
      By: Jan H. Andersen
      Epsom salt may be combined with water for a foot soak.
    • Epson salt is known as a very good exfoliant and makes the skin feel softer.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Epson salt is known as a very good exfoliant and makes the skin feel softer.
    • Epsom salt may be added to a warm bath to relieve sore joints and muscles.
      By: Tyler Olson
      Epsom salt may be added to a warm bath to relieve sore joints and muscles.
    • Epson salts are said to reduce stress and help cleanse the body of toxins.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Epson salts are said to reduce stress and help cleanse the body of toxins.