01 Jul How to Make the Most of Epsom Salts

Epsom salts are like duct tape – they are in practically every home and have a million and one surprising uses! Maybe you’ve enjoyed an Epsom salt bath from time to time, or used Epsom salts as a simple, natural remedy for a variety of mild ailments, but there are so many other benefits to this mineral! It’s time to learn how to make the most of Epsom salts!

If you’re not a big believer in natural health, you may be tempted to think that such things as Epsom salts, that can be bought at your local grocery store are the subject of a lot of talk, but not a lot of action. I know – I used to think the same thing. You may be surprised to find that this naturally occurring compound can pack a powerful punch.

What are Epsom Salts?

Epsom salt is a mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. We label it as MgSO₄ for short. Magnesium is vital to the normal function of the human body, yet many of us are deficient in it. It is important for the heart, blood pressure and bones. Sulfate is an essential mineral, important in cleansing and detoxification. In mega doses, Magnesium Sulfate is a high-risk medicine that, as a Labor and Delivery nurse, I have used extensively. Over the years, it’s been prescribed to slow or stop preterm labor, to protect pre-eclamptic patients from seizures, to protect the brains of preterm babies from cerebral palsy, and to treat a magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium Deficiency

Many, if not all of us, are deficient in magnesium. Deficiencies can happen because of high stress levels, diets high in sugar, modern farming practices which have damaged the quality of the soil, a high intake of diuretics such as coffee or pharmaceuticals which deplete the body’s magnesium reserves, and the ingestion of fluoride, commonly found in toothpastes and drinking water.

Ensuring that you maintain adequate magnesium levels can help you avoid a number of chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and even brain disorders such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

10 Simple Ways to Make the Most of Epsom Salts

1. Take Epsom Salt Baths

An Epsom salt bath is a simple and effective home remedy for a host of common complaints. Their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote relaxation make them a great choice to release tension of the body and the mind. In fact, when I was pregnant, an Epsom salt bath was my only relief for insomnia and restless leg syndrome.

To make the most of an Epsom salt bath, mix in some Young Living essential oils. I like to add about 10 drops into approximately 1/2 cup of Epsom salts, then disperse them into the warm water. For example, if you want to relax before bed, add a few drops of Lavender, Peace & Calming, Cedarwood, Roman Chamomile, or a mix of them all. If you enjoy a post-workout soak, add a few drops of Pan Away, Lavender, Aroma Siez, or Lemongrass essential oil. For a more invigorating experience, you may choose to add some Peppermint, En-R-Gee, or RC to your bath. Once when I was especially stressed, I dumped in an entire bottle of Valor essential oil. It was probably the best soak I’ve ever had.

2. Spread Epsom Salts in the Garden

I don’t know about you, but I need all the help I can get when it comes to gardening. Magnesium sulfate is an important soil additive. Adding a small amount of it into your garden soil or around your potted plants can help with plant growth and blooming, transplant shock and pest control.

Adding a couple of drops of Lavender, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Rosemary, Thyme or Clove essential oil to a spray bottle of Epsom salts and water can also benefit the garden.

3. Add Epsom Salts to Toxin-Free Home Cleaning Products

Some of the most toxic products in our homes are commercial, store-bought cleaning products. When transitioning to a cleaner, healthier lifestyle, one of the first things to consider is the dangerous chemicals in your cleaning products. Epsom salts are a fantastic alternative because they are safe, and nontoxic. They can be used along with Thieves Dish Soap to clean pots and pans. Mix together equal amounts of Thieves Household Cleaner and Epsom salts for a tile and grout cleaner. Just dab onto the area, allow it to sit for a couple of minutes, then scrub it off. I’ve used Epsom salts to clean my washing machine, as well. I have a top-loading machine which I fill with hot water. Then I add 1 quart of distilled vinegar and 1 cup of Epsom salts, and for an extra boost, a couple of drops of Purification essential oil. Allow the machine to run for a couple of minutes, then stop it and let it sit for at least one hour with the lid open. Then allow the machine to finish the wash and rinse cycle. You will love the results!

4. Use Epsom Salts to Make a Hair Tonic

Epsom salts are fantastic for the hair. They remove buildup from styling products, decrease excess oil, add volume, and reduce frizz. Simply add an equal amount of Epsom salts to your Conditioner and apply to your hair. It works best if left in for about 20 minutes before being rinsed out. For extra shine and softness, add some tea tree, rosemary, peppermint, and lemongrass essential oils.

5. Add Epsom Salts to Your Skincare Routine to Achieve Smooth, Healthy Skin

Next time you want to give your skin a little extra care, get your Epsom salts. Epsom salts can work as a great exfoliator. Simply rub them over your damp skin after a bath or shower, or add a small amount to your cleansing cream for an easy facial.

6. Use Epsom Salts to Get Better Sleep

I’m a night shift nurse. Like many shift-workers, I struggle with sleep and place a huge value on it. One of the best products that I have found (besides my trusty essential oils) is Ease Magnesium Spray. When I get home from work, especially after a rough night, I spray this on my legs. It gives almost instant relief to sore muscles and helps me to relax and get great sleep. I cannot recommend this enough!

7. Use Epsom Salts to Gently Remove Splinters

Nobody likes a splinter, and even less removing them! Next time avoid the needles and soak the splinter in an Epsom salt bath. Add Thieves essential oil for a little extra UMPH. Both the Epsom salts and the essential oils will help to draw out the splinter without further injury and as a bonus the area will be left nice and clean.

8. Use Epsom Salts to to Treat Insect Bites and Poison Ivy

If you’ve never tried a good, old fashioned compress, this is the time where you’d want to start. Simply mix a couple of tablespoons of Epsom sales with about 1 cup of warm water. Saturate a cloth in the mixture, wring it out so it’s not dripping and apply it to the itchy area.

9. Use Epsom Salts to Protect Against Insect Invasions

I make a less dilute mixture of Epsom salts, using about 2 cups of water and ¼ cup of Epsom salts, shaken in a spray bottle. Spray this around the periphery of your home and garden to safely protect against insect invasions.

10. Use Epsom Salts to Manage Constipation Naturally

Last and not least – using Epsom salts can help deter constipation. If you’ve even had a colonoscopy (or know someone who has), you know about the not-so=appealing drink that you have to drink beforehand. That drink is a form of magnesium. You can do the same at home, if you have the need. Just make sure your salts are food grade, then mix together about 2 teaspoons into your glass of water or juice.

Did you have any idea how useful these things are? Just one final bonus tip – don’t buy Epsom salts that are scented. This is usually a toxic process, which kind of ruins the entire purpose of taking a natural route. Do your own scenting with essential oils, or just use them without a scent. Now go try one of these ideas – I’ll be soaking in a bath.