Epsom salt for feet has been traditionally used world-over to alleviate stress, anxiety, and inflammation. It is useful for a range of foot diseases and disorders, which also complements the skin by hydrating and moisturizing it.
What is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt is not actually a salt but a naturally occurring magnesium sulfate mineral. It borrows its name from the bitter saline spring of Epsom in Surrey, England, where it is found. These tiny colorless crystals have been a go-to remedy for sore feet and muscle cramps. Although a traditional remedy, there has not been enough evidence for the benefits of Epsom salt for feet. Michigan State University Extension claims it to be a placebo effect, which means that most people assumed and felt relief after an Epsom salt soak. So, it is usually a safe home remedy, but it is advisable to consult a doctor before using it. [1]
A warm bath drawn with epsom salts and a blend of good essential oils can help lower your stress levels. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
How to Use Epsom Salt For Feet?
Here are some easy-to-follow steps for soaking feet in Epsom salt:
- Step 1: Take a large container and fill it with enough warm water to soak your feet up to the ankles.
- Step 2: Add a cup of Epsom salt in water and mix it.
- Step 3: Soak your feet in Epsom bath solution for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove your feet and pat dry with a towel.
- Step 5: Apply moisturizer generously and relax for 10 to 15 minutes so that the moisturizer is well absorbed.
Note: If you want it to add a touch of aromatherapy, you may choose to add a few drops of essential oil. Depending on your purpose of soak, you may add:
- Lavender or lime essential oil for enhanced relaxation.
- Olive oil or baby oil for better moisturization.
Benefits of Epsom Salt For Feet
Let’s look at the health benefits of Epsom Salt soak in detail:
Detoxification
The skin absorbs magnesium and sulfate better in warm water. According to a series of experiments compiled in a report by Dr. RH Waring, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, bathing in Epsom salts is a safe and easy way to increase sulfate and magnesium levels in the body. This helps to flush out the toxins from the body. Appropriate magnesium levels help in balanced hormonal secretion and improved blood circulation. Furthermore, reduced sore feet and muscle cramps are the beneficial by-products of detoxification. [2] [3]
Reduces Stress
Traditionally, the use of Epsom salt for feet is known to provide a nerve-calming effect. It reduces stress and anxiety and provides relaxation. Some gentle massage during the soak would, additionally, elevate mood and provide a deep sleep. [4]
Relieves Pain
Regularly soaking feet in Epsom salt can also relieve some arthritic inflammations like gout due to its anti-inflammatory properties. To prevent congestion of joints try to keep the foot movement maximum after the soak. Additionally, the sulfates from the salt ease headaches due to a migraine.
Aids Exfoliation
It heals cracked heels! Rub some Epsom salt on your foot or scrub your feet with a brush during the soak. This will soften your skin through exfoliation.
Boosts Feet Health
The skin-softening property of Epsom salt makes removing splinters and nails dirt easy. Furthermore, this mineral helps eliminate bad foot odor.
Anti-microbial Properties
Epsom salt has been used to heal various foot and skin infections including toenail fungus, athlete’s foot, and others. It does not cure the infection but is a good complementary alternative to medications.
Helps Foot Ailments
Soaking your feet in Epsom salt twо or three tіmеѕ a week is beneficial for various foot conditions like:
- Bunions
- Cоrnѕ
- Hangnails
- Ingrown toenails
- Hаmmеrtое
- Plantar fаѕсііtіѕ
- Flаt fееt
- Tаrѕаl tunnеl ѕуndrоmе
Word of Caution: For severe medical conditions including diabetes and staph infection, warm water and salt mixes may worsen the condition. Also, excess Epsom salt for feet may cause dried and cracked skin. Therefore, check with your doctor before trying Epsom salt soak. [5]
