Epsom salt is named after a saline spring found in the borough of Epsom, England. But it is not actually salt—it’s a naturally-occurring mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. According to studies, magnesium and sulfate are both absorbed through the skin, which makes Epsom salt bath one of the easiest and most ideal ways to enjoy its health benefits. Sulfate helps with nutrient absorption, flushes toxins, and helps ease migraine headaches. Sulfate also stimulates the pancreas to generate and digest enzymes that are thought to help detoxify the body from environmental contaminants.

When the body is stressed, the magnesium levels decrease and adrenaline levels increase. When Epsom salt is dissolved in warm water, it is absorbed through the skin and increases the level of magnesium in the body. Magnesium helps produce serotonin—a mood-elevating chemical in the brain which creates a calm and relaxing sensation. An adequate amount of magnesium and sulfate levels can help increase the effect of insulin in the body; this can help lower one’s risk of developing diabetes. Also, studies have shown that magnesium increases energy and stamina by encouraging production of adenosine triphosphate, which is sort of like an energy currency.
Bathing in Epsom salt at least three times a week will help you look better, feel better, and provide you with an extra boost of energy. Magnesium lowers the effects of adrenaline and helps reduce irritability while improving sleep patterns and concentration. Epsom salt baths are known to ease pain and relieve inflammation from injuries and conditions. In addition, they have been known to heal open cuts and reduce soreness from childbirth for women. If Epsom salt is used on a regular basis, it can improve symptoms of conditions such as gout, athlete’s foot, sprains, nail fungus, and bruises. Those who are dealing with chronic diseases or chronic pain should consider adding Epsom salt to their baths on a regular basis.

Even if you can’t take an Epsom salt bath often, just once week take sometime to treat yourself. Allow yourself to relax for twenty minutes. Light some candles and read a book to pass time. When you are finished your body will be thank you.