Long gone are the days when magnesium sulfate, better known as Epsom salt, was used strictly to soothe tired feet.
Numerous applications have been discovered for its use, not only for the body, but in the garden, too!
Here are 8 great uses for Epsom salt.
1. Sunburn Relief
Just in time for summer! Epsom salt has been shown to relieve mild sunburns. Make a cold compress by dissolving 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt into every 1 cup of cold water. Soak a washcloth in the mixture, wring it out, and then apply it to the sunburned skin for instant, soothing relief.
2. Aches and Pains
It’s well documented that Epsom salts helps relieve aches and pains, so this comes as no surprise. Adding 2 cups of Epsom salts to a warm bath, and then soaking in it for 20 minutes will relieve tired, aching muscles.
Epsom salts are also good for localized pain as well. Just combine 1 cup of Epsom salts into 1 quart of warm water, and soak a towel into the solution. Next, wring out the towel and apply it to the impacted area for up to a half an hour to relieve swelling and pain.
3. Fix Your Feet
As well as being an effective natural remedy against the everyday aches and pains in your feet, Epsom salts also helps feet in other ways. The magnesium sulfate absorbs into the skin, working to reduce foot odor, ingrown toenails and fungal foot infections, according to the Epsom Salt Council.
4. Laxative
When used as a laxative, Epsom salt can help produce a bowel movement in as little as 30 minutes. Just add 1 to 2 (ages 6 to 12) or 2 to 4 (ages 12+) teaspoons of Epsom salts into 8 ounces of water, and stir until dissolved. Then drink it in its entirety. This is not recommended for children under six years of age.