Epsom salt small jar

Epsom salt is a popular remedy for many ailments.

People use it to ease health problems, such as muscle soreness and stress. It's also affordable, easy to use, and harmless when used appropriately.

Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate. It's a chemical compound made up of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen.

It gets its name from the town of Epsom in Surrey, England, where it was originally discovered.

It has an appearance similar to table salt and is often dissolved in baths, which is why you may also know it as "bath salt." While it looks similar to table salt, its taste is distinctly different. Epsom salt is quite bitter and unpalatable.

Some people still consume it by dissolving the salt in water and drinking it. However, due to its taste, you probably don’t want to add it to food.

For hundreds of years, this salt has been used to treat ailments, such as constipation, insomnia, and fibromyalgia.

How Does It Work?

When Epsom salt is dissolved in water, it releases magnesium and sulfate ions.

The idea is that these particles can be absorbed through your skin, providing you with magnesium and sulfates — which serve important bodily functions.

Many people, including some healthcare professionals, claim Epsom salt is therapeutic and use it as an alternative treatment for several conditions.

Provides Magnesium 

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, the first being calcium.

It is involved in more than 325 biochemical reactions that benefit your heart and nervous system.

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Promotes Sleep and Stress Reduction

Bath

The most common use is taking what's called an Epsom salt bath.

To do this, add 2 cups (about 475 grams) of Epsom salt to the water in a standard-sized bathtub and soak your body for at least 15 minutes.

These uses are entirely anecdotal and unsupported by any studies. Remember that it works differently for everyone and that you may not experience the reported benefits.

Epsom salt may be helpful in treating magnesium deficiency or constipation when taken as a supplement. It can also be used as a beauty product or bath salt.