Epsom salts are made up of the minerals magnesium and sulfate, hence it’s chemical name magnesium sulfate. Magnesium plays a very important role in the human body. It helps to regulate more than 300 enzymes that are responsible for everything from muscle control and electrical impulses to energy production and the elimination of harmful toxins. More specifically magnesium eases stress and improves sleep and concentration; helps muscles and nerves function properly; helps prevent artery hardening and blood clots; helps body use insulin more effective; reduces inflammation to relieve pain and muscle cramps; and improves oxygen use.
However research is showing that most people don’t get enough magnesium from their diet alone. A lack of magnesium can contribute to things like high blood pressure, hyperactivity, hearth problems and other health issues.
Sulfate is also an important mineral in the body, which is necessary for many biological processes, to help flush toxins from the body and to help form proteins in brain tissue and joints.
Studies show that magnesium and sulfate are absorbed poorly through the digestive track, but both can be easily absorbed through the skin. By adding 2 cups of Epsom salts to warm/hot water in a standard-sized bathtub (double the Epsom salt for an oversized tub), 3 times a week, soaking for at least 12 minutes, you can easily increase your body’s levels of both magnesium and sulfate.
So how do Epsom salts work to ease muscle aches? The magnesium in Epsom salts promotes the release of lactic acid from the muscle tissue, allowing the lactic acid to be flushed naturally by your body. It is an excellent idea to have an Epsom salt bath in the evening after you have had a massage because it helps to clear out lactic acid released as a result of your massage.
It is important to remember that an Epsom salt bath must be done without using soap, adding any bath solutions or oils, as these substances will alter the chemistry of the water and affect the cleansing properties of the Epsom salts. After soaking, make sure to rinse off. This will remove any toxins from the surface of your skin that the Epsom salts may have pulled out. It is suggested, that turning the hot water down until you’re using primarily warm/cool water, rinsing legs first, then arms, then back, then chest, and lastly head, neck, shoulders and soles of the feet, will give the maximum benefits after your soak. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water during and after an Epsom salt bath as this will help your body flush any toxins that may have been released by the magnesium.
So lay back, relax and soak up the benefits!