Whether you're aiming to alleviate the pain of sore muscles or get relief for red and itchy skin, you may already know that Epsom salt baths are an amazing way to soothe your body, mind and soul. But you may not be sure how much Epsom salt to use in a bath.
Quick Epsom Salts Background
Epsom salts get their name from the area in England where they're found in natural springs. They consist of magnesium sulfate, which breaks down when dissolved in water to enter your body through the skin.
How to Take an Epsom Salt Bath
To get the most out of your Epsom salt bath, add the salts while you're filling the tub with warm water to ensure they fully dissolve. You can pour the salts directly under the water stream as the tub is filling. Make sure the water temperature is warm-yet-still comfortable for an extended soak.
The general rule of thumb is to use 1 to 2 cups Epsom salts in a full-size tub of warm water, depending on the treatment you're aiming to achieve.
Epsom Salt Baths for Detox
The magnesium and sulfate found in Epsom salts are thought to help purge toxins from the body, which can assist with stress relief, weight loss, constipation and overall good health.
Epsom salt baths for detox work best with 2 cups of Epsom salts in your bath water. Soak for at least 12 minutes for general detox, and at least 20 minutes if you're treating constipation.
Epsom Salt Baths for Sore Muscles
Slipping into a tub filled with Epsom salts can provide soothing relief for sore muscles. Use 2 cups of Epsom salts dissolved in warm bath water. Soak for at least 12 minutes.
Epsom Salt Baths for Aching Joints
Arthritis pain can benefit from a soak in Epsom salts, again by adding 2 cups of salts to your warm bath. Stretching your muscles while you're soaking in the tub can help alleviate pain even further, as can soaking for at least 20 minutes.
Epsom Salt Baths for Soothing Skin
Use 1 cup of Epsom salts in your bath for treating irritated skin caused by psoriasis, eczema and other skin conditions. Soak for at least 20 minutes in the magnesium sulfate solution.
Use 2 cups of salts if you're aiming to soothe dry and itchy skin, or itchiness caused by insect bites or poison ivy exposure. Soak for at least 12 minutes per session, with two to three sessions recommended per week, as needed, until your skin condition improves.
