AMAZING PROPERTIES OF Epsom Salts
What is Epsom salt? How to properly use Epsom salt. Her side effects
INNA CODRU , DECEMBER 23, 2018
Epsom salt, Epsom salt, magnesium sulfate, all this is one substance that was first mined in the English town of Epsom. This salt is commonly used as a bath salt and as a medicine in the treatment of skin inflammations such as small local infections or small boils. But Epsom salts offer far more benefits than we're told. It is widely used for medical purposes, in agriculture and in everyday life.
WHAT IS EPROMIS SALT?
Epsom salt should not be confused with the traditional salt we are used to. It is a type of mineral compound of sulfate and magnesium, hence its chemical name, magnesium sulfate. Although it looks exactly like table salt due to its crystalline appearance, it is a completely different product.
Epsom salt is a nutrient that our body uses for proper organ function. In addition to improving health, Epsom salt has other health benefits, which we will discuss below.
Epsom salt raises both sulfate and magnesium levels
Both elements of Epsom salt, sulfate and magnesium are important for the body. Their lack can carry a potential danger to the body. Although sulfate deficiency is rare, magnesium deficiency is much more common and is attributed to factors such as soil depletion and an increase in under-processed foods.
Magnesium in water is also destroyed due to traditional tap water disinfection methods. Many medical conditions can be associated with magnesium deficiency, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and some heart conditions. You may need to make adjustments to your diet if you are found to be deficient in both of these minerals. Or, a person may consider taking supplements. An Epsom salt bath can also help because minerals can be absorbed through the skin into the body and during the bath.
Epsom salt (epsom salt) relaxes the body
Epsom salts are water soluble, which means that when you take such a bath, you make it easier for your body to get magnesium and sulfate, which can be absorbed through human skin, and can immediately begin their work inside your body. Once inside, magnesium ions break away from Epsom salt molecules and help relieve stress by increasing serotonin production and reducing the effects of adrenaline on the body. Another function of magnesium is its vital role in the reproduction of energy in cells. This action will make us feel more energized without causing feelings of anxiety or worry.
If a person begins to feel anxious or stressed, he should immerse himself in the Epsom salt bath. It is a quick remedy to relieve such stress by helping to balance electrolyte levels and promote the proper functioning of the nervous system. Magnesium is also responsible for maintaining the levels of hormones and neurotransmitters that are important for controlling mood and general well-being.
Epsom Salt Helps Relieve Cramps, Inflammation and Pain
Epsom salt has been used for generations to relieve pain caused by inflammation and cramps. Even one bath with Epsom salts will help relieve pain for several hours. This is because of the soothing nature of the warmest Epsom salt bath. As an added bonus, such a bath can allow a person to fall asleep, giving the body a chance to heal itself.
In this bath, Epsom salts are absorbed directly into the body, making this a faster and easier way to relieve muscle tension, joint inflammation, and pain. Try immersing yourself in a warm bath with Epsom salts and you will immediately feel its therapeutic effect. A person will get almost immediate relief from headaches or stomach cramps, sore or tired legs, muscle tension and more.
Helps maintain proper blood sugar levels
There are many disorders that are caused by insulin resistance, and the most common of these are metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Diabetics commonly experience spikes in blood sugar levels after eating sugary processed foods. This impairs the body's ability to properly regulate glucose levels.
One nutrient that can help increase a person's insulin sensitivity is magnesium because its presence often helps the body control blood sugar levels, thus reducing the risk of diabetes.
Again, Epsom salt baths are recommended because magnesium easily enters the body through the skin. Of course, there is still no substitute for a healthy lifestyle, when a person eats properly, has a healthy sleep and is physically active enough.
Consider Epsom salt bath as an additional remedy to feel better. Not only magnesium, but sulfate also improves the body's ability to produce and use insulin. Regular intake of Epsom salts through the skin or by mouth can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of diabetes, and ultimately give you enough energy to get through the day.
Naturally cleanses the face
Epsom salt can also be used as an excellent exfoliating agent. And it is very easy to make such a mixture yourself. Just add a teaspoon of salt to your nightly cleanser. Apply the mixture on your face, then wash off after 15 minutes with warm water. This is a great skin lightening treatment.
Epsom salts can remove dead skin cells and excess oil from pores. To treat acne, you must first exfoliate dead skin cells. Then, make a mixture of a teaspoon of Epsom salts with a few drops of iodine and place it in half a glass of hot water. Stir the mixture until the salts are completely dissolved, then let stand until it is warm. Apply this mixture on the acne prone area. Let it dry completely before rinsing off with warm water. Finally, pat your face dry with a clean towel.
Epsom salt is a good laxative
You can quickly get rid of constipation by using Epsom salt. In fact, it even has the US Food and Drug Administration's seal of approval as a laxative. Numerous studies have shown that Epsom salts have excellent laxative properties. The magnesium ions in the compound can cause an osmotic effect, causing water retention in the intestines, thereby increasing fluidity and facilitating waste removal.
Most Epsom salt products already contain instructions on how to take them by mouth to induce this laxative effect. Just follow the instructions, mixing the required amount of water and salt. Expect a bowel movement within the next few hours. If the digestive problems continue, then something else may be the cause. Consult your doctor.
Improves sleep quality
Many people want to get rid of insomnia and dream of a good night's sleep. If so, try taking an Epsom salt bath before bed. Magnesium in salts, which is present in sufficient quantities in our body, is associated with the production of neurotransmitters. These are chemicals released by neurons to stimulate other neurons or cells in muscles or glands. An excess of magnesium means the body can produce more serotonin, a hormone that helps with sleep and regulates the body's circadian rhythms.
Epsom salt helps maintain healthy hair and skin
There are several reasons why you should include Epsom salts in your daily beauty routine. We have already discussed its benefits when used as an additive in baths. You can also combine Epsom salt mixtures with mild cleansers of your choice or any carrier oil, or simply dilute it with water to create a very effective face and body scrub. Try the mixture to get rid of dead skin cells. Peeling will lead to the appearance of new cells, which will give the skin a healthy glow.
People who suffer from chronic conditions such as psoriasis, acne, rosacea, or eczema can also benefit from Epsom salt baths. In fact, this is exactly what they really need. Such a bath can stimulate blood circulation in the affected areas of the skin. And this will improve the speed of healing, while at the same time improving the health of the skin, removing dead cells and helping young cells take the place of old ones.
Epsom salts are also great for hair. Mix equal amounts of hair conditioner and Epsom salts, slightly warmed. Apply to hair to soften and add volume. It is very effective, especially for those with oily hair types. For best results, a person should massage the mixture into their hair and scalp. Wait about 20 minutes before washing off this mixture. You can even use Epsom salts as a natural hairspray. This is a simple procedure. Mix an equal amount of Epsom salts and water together with fresh lemon juice and pour this mixture into a spray bottle. Shake well, then start spraying.
Epsom salt speeds up detoxification
Several studies have shown that Epsom salts can speed up the body's detoxification capacity. This means that the body can get rid of toxins faster. Diving into the Epsom salt bath will affect the electrolyte levels in the body. Toxins are eliminated faster if the body processes the moisture in the body more efficiently. This will lead to a reduction in the amount of toxins, thus reducing inflammation and at the same time helping the immune system. During the bath, toxins are removed from the skin by the effect of reverse osmosis.
Solves skin problems
When used as a paste, magnesium sulfate relieves redness and reduces itching associated with insect bites. An Epsom bath will help relieve muscle pain. Or you can use a cold compress or Epsom Salt Paste to achieve the same effect. A paste of this salt is also effective against poison ivy, poison oak, rashes, and sunburn. Making pasta is easy. Simply dissolve a teaspoon of Epsom salts in a cup of hot water. Let cool for about 20 minutes, you can in the refrigerator to speed up the process. Then apply to skin as needed.
Splinters can be removed using Epsom salts. Simply soak the affected area in warm Epsom salt water for a few minutes. The magnesium sulfate in the salt will reduce inflammation and soften the splinter, making it easier to remove. The anti-inflammatory properties of salts can reduce soreness caused by sprains and bruises. Simply mix warm water with two cups of Epsom salts. Immerse yourself in the bath and the pain will decrease. Salt scrubs usually consist of salt and oil, such as almond oil or olive oil. You can replace the salt with magnesium-rich Epsom salts for extra magnesium saturation. The resulting salt scrub will become an effective facial cleanser with magnesium as a supplement.
Helps maintain a healthy nervous system
If the Epsom salt bath helps with electrolytes in the cells, then this could mean an improvement in the entire nervous function of the body. Our nervous system depends on having body fluids that are "electrically" balanced so that they can transmit nerve signals and messages efficiently. This will lead to both improved muscle function and improved cognitive performance.
Gives hair more volume
Removal of all kinds of cosmetics that accumulate over time in our hair. Hair is exposed to various chemicals every day, such as hair sprays and other styling products. You can remove all this with preparations containing Epsom salts. Mix a cup of lemon juice and Epsom salts with 450 ml of water. Pour into a jar and close it, leave for the whole day. Then you can use it by simply wetting your hair with it and leaving it for 20 minutes. After that, you can wash it off with plain water, and then use a hair conditioner.
To add volume to your hair, mix equal parts Epsom salt and conditioner (preferably all natural and sulfate free). Make the mixture slightly warm, just above body temperature, and apply it to your hair. Leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing off.
Relieves headaches
Many studies have shown that magnesium can help reduce headaches and migraines when used regularly. Other studies have also shown that, in turn, magnesium deficiency can cause headaches. Magnesium can be used for oral or transdermal use. Sometimes we hear some people swear that swimming in the ocean helps cure hangovers. And there may be some truth in this, since the ocean is rich in magnesium.
Take care of the health of your feet
Swollen feet can be really annoying, especially for pregnant women and also for those whose job it is to stand on their feet all day long. This is where Epsom salts can help. You can take an Epsom salt bath or just soak your feet in a small basin. Epsom salts definitely have a positive effect on the legs, reducing swelling and relieving pain.
So far, we have discussed the benefits of Epsom salts in relieving a person of swelling and pain in the legs. But Epsom salt can also be effective against fungal infections of the feet and nails. Again, the mix is simple. Add half a cup of Epsom salt to warm water. Keep your feet in it for at least 15-20 minutes. To treat nail fungus, 10-15 such treatments may be required.
Other Benefits of Epsom Salts
As simple as it may seem, Epsom salt is a "wonderful wonder" because of the many health benefits it has to offer. People have been using salt for hundreds of years, starting with its discovery in Epsom, England, in a bitter-salty spring. Evaporation of water from this source gives salt. Since then, salt has been used for various purposes.
Epsom salt can be used not only for beauty and health, but also for gardening. Over the past hundreds of years, man has found many uses for this incredible Epsom salt. It has been used to treat many ailments, has been used for aesthetic benefits, and has proven to be indispensable in the household. This compound is known as magnesium sulfate, but is more commonly referred to as Epsom salt or Epsom salt. Don't get confused by the brand names, because Epsom salt, whatever it's called, comes from the same source.
It is good for the nervous and muscular systems. We have discussed in some detail the role of Epsom salts in relieving pain, spasms and tension. Magnesium sulfate actually offers much more than all of the above. On a deeper level, this compound aids in several enzymatic functions, promotes fluid retention in our cells, and facilitates the body's absorption of calcium while transmitting chemical signals throughout the human nervous system.
Epsom salts are also important for improving the functioning of our circulatory system. The presence of magnesium sulfate in the body prevents the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases by reducing inflammation and maintaining the elasticity of our blood vessels. If you have healthy arteries, there will be less risk of blood clots and plaque buildup, which can damage the walls of your arteries. Get in the habit of taking epsom salt baths up to 4 times a week, and this will help to significantly reduce stress and blood pressure, which will ultimately improve the cardiovascular system.
Don't overindulge in foods that raise uric acid levels. Otherwise, it will lead to inflammation and swelling of the joints, which is commonly referred to as gout. If you're having a gout attack, follow this advice - dissolve a few tablespoons of Epsom salt in hot water, then soak a bandage with it and apply it to the gouty parts of your body. Magnesium sulfate is quickly absorbed through the skin and also into swollen joints. This will certainly reduce both inflammation and pain itself.
PRECAUTIONS AND POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF EPSOM SALT
In general, Epsom salt is a safe product. But, like any substance, it can cause side effects, especially if taken or handled incorrectly. In addition, there are certain medications that can interact with Epsom salts. These include proton pump inhibitors or PPIs, diuretics, and drugs used to treat osteoporosis. Magnesium in Epsom salts can interact with tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics. Therefore, if anyone is taking these medications, they should consult their doctor before using Epsom salts. It is also important to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have any chronic illness.
Many people enjoy the Epsom salt baths. Such baths offer many health benefits, but they can have potential side effects, including dehydration and diarrhea. However, as long as the person does not take baths that are too frequent or too long, these side effects are unlikely to occur. But let's discuss these side effects anyway so people know more about them:
- Dehydration . Water with a high salt content can draw moisture out of a person's skin, which in turn can have a dehydrating effect. Again, frequent or prolonged Epsom salt baths can lead to mild dehydration, so it's best to limit the frequency and time spent in such baths.
- Diarrhea . Too much use of Epsom salts can have a laxative effect on a person depending on the amount of magnesium sulfate their body absorbs. In some cases, this can lead to diarrhea, so it's best not to "soak" in the Epsom salt bath for too long.
- The inflammation in the legs worsens . For those with foot sores caused by diabetes, Epsom salt baths are not recommended. The reason for this is that Epsom salt dries out the skin, which can aggravate or irritate the wound. And this can also apply to other types of wounds, so it's best to avoid Epsom salt baths until such injuries are completely healed.
HOUSEHOLD USE OF Epsom Salt
In addition to the health benefits, Epsom salt can also be used in the household. Here are some uses for Epsom salts:
- For washing dishes . Pour some Epsom salts into these hard-to-clean pots, pans or other utensils, let the salt "work" for a few minutes before you start cleaning them. Crystalline grains of salt have an abrasive structure, which helps to easily remove heavy dirt without damaging the dishes themselves.
- Tile cleaning . Prepare a mixture of equal parts Epsom salts and liquid dish detergent. This combination is an extremely effective tile cleaner. Apply this mixture to the tile, leave it to soak in for a few minutes to soften the dirt. Then wash the tiles.
- Hand washing agent . Mix equal parts baby oil and Epsom salts. This product will have both a cleansing and moisturizing effect when washing your hands. Store the solution in a bottle near the sink. You can use it regularly to keep your hands smooth, clean and soft.
- For the garden . Surprisingly, Epsom salts can be used as plant and lawn fertilizer, they can remove unwanted pests and prevent slugs from eating garden plants. Just like us, plants also need to increase their magnesium content from time to time. Add a small amount of salt during regular fertilization or watering. This will give you healthier and more beautiful houseplants.
- Effective fertilizer. Use Epsom salts to fertilize plants during the growing season. Just make a simple mixture by mixing 1 or 2 teaspoons of salt in 4 liters of water. Pour this mixture into the base of the plant so that it can reach the roots. This is especially good for peppers and tomatoes because they always require more magnesium. Add this mixture to your plants every two weeks. It can also be used for roses. If there is no time to make the mixture itself, then you can simply add a teaspoon of salt to the soil for each of the plants. After that, you can simply water the plants with plain water.
Almost all garden plants will be happy if Epsom salts are added to the soil. Fruit trees, flower beds, and lawns will flourish much better if fed with Epsom salts. Just find out about the plants you grow and their Epsom salt needs. In general, if your plants are starting to curl or turn yellow, you can try to revive them by adding Epsom salts to the soil.
- Epsom salt will improve seed germination. In the event that the seeds you choose have low viability, the seedlings are not strong enough, or tend to die, Epsom salts can be an excellent remedy for this. For generations, gardeners have used Epsom salts to improve germination. It has also been observed that seedlings become much stronger when first emerging from the soil.
Magnesium sulfate is necessary for plants, especially at the stage of their germination. When seedlings begin to emerge from the ground, they will need minerals in large quantities. Therefore, you can give them an additive in the form of Epsom salt. Mix a tablespoon of Epsom salts in 4 liters of water and use this mixture to water your seeds when you first plant them.
- Reduce plant shock from transplanting. People usually plant seedlings first, waiting for them to germinate. At some point, it will need to be transferred to normal soil. And very often some of these plants die during transplantation. To reduce such losses and at the same time accelerate the growth of seedlings, use Epsom salt. When planting new bushes or transplanting trees, soak the plant's root system in 5 liters of water containing 150 grams of Epsom salts. When transplanting plants from a container into the soil, water them with a mixture in proportion - a tablespoon of Epsom salt to 4 liters of water immediately after transplanting. This will reduce the shock of the plant from transplanting and improve the ability of the leaves to produce all the nutrients needed by other parts of the plant. You can also sprinkle a tablespoon of Epsom salt on each well where plants are to be moved. After adding, cover the hole with a little soil, then place the plant there. As the plants grow, the roots will be able to reach the Epsom salts at the end of the growing season, just when they need it most.
Also, keep in mind that too much of a good thing can become harmful. The same is true for Epsom salts when used in horticulture. Too much can harm plants. It's a good idea to pre-test the soil for nutrient content before you start adding Epsom salts or any other fertilizer.