Epsom salt, technically known as magnesium sulfate, has several uses for health benefits. People take Epsom salt orally for certain conditions, but it is best known for using as a bath or soak. Epsom salt also is good for most plants as a natural fertilizer. You can buy Epsom salt at most drugstores, and some grocery stores sell it as well.
Magnesium Benefits
Taking a bath with Epsom salt or soaking your feet in Epsom salt and warm water helps muscles relax, relieves muscle aches after work or exercise, and helps relieve stress, according to Ray Sahelian, a physician who specializes in natural supplements. While soaking, the body absorbs beneficial magnesium. Magnesium is an electrolyte, essential for function of muscles and nerves, and important for cardiovascular health.
Sulfate Benefits
Soaking in an Epsom salt bath also delivers sulfates to the body. The body doesn’t easily absorb sulfate from food, but can obtain sulfates more readily through the skin, as explained by the Epsom Salt Council. Sulfate minerals are important for the formation of brain tissue and for maintaining healthy joints. They also have benefits for the digestive system, including stimulating the pancreas to generate digestive enzymes, and helping to cleanse the body of toxins.
Laxative Effect
People can take Epsom salt to relieve occasional constipation, according to Drugs.com. Magnesium sulfate acts as a natural laxative and stool softener by increasing water in the intestines, which is then absorbed by the stool.
Anti-Fungal Properties
Epsom salt can eliminate toenail fungus, according to Sahelian. The process involves keeping the affected nails as short as possible, and regularly soaking the toes in a shallow container with very hot water and at least a handful of Epsom salt. Sahelian recommends pouring the Epsom salt directly over the affected nails and soaking for at least 15 minutes a day, longer and more often if possible. You can use as much Epsom salt in the process as you want to. Soaking feet in Epsom salt also can help eliminate athlete’s foot.
Plant Fertilizer
Epsom salt is beneficial for providing magnesium and sulfur as nutrients to plants, as explained by the Epsom Salt Council, making it a natural fertilizer. It helps seeds germinate, enhances chlorophyll production, increases uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus, and helps plants grow fuller and produce more flowers. Epsom salt is particularly beneficial for trees, shrubs, lawns, tomatoes and other vegetables, and houseplants.
About this Author
Shelley Moore is a journalist and award-winning short story writer. She specializes in writing about personal development, health, careers and personal finance. Moore has been published in “Family Circle” magazine and the “Milwaukee Sentinel” newspaper, along with numerous other national and regional magazines, daily and weekly newspapers and corporate publications. She has a Bachelor of Science in psychology.
