Integrative medicine is a field of healthcare that is centered on treating both body and the mind, and examining how they are closely connected. A few of the treatments and practices used by integrative medicine’s holistic approach are Reiki, acupuncture and hypnotherapy.
Another method integrative medical experts often recommend for its mental and physical health advantages are Epsom salt. While no clinical research has proven the health benefits of Epsom salt, many healthcare providers promote it for its simplicity of use as well as its reasonable cost and surgery-like delivery.
What exactly is Epsom salt?
Epsom salt is one of many naturally occurring mineral salts that are a mixture made up of sulfate and magnesium in forms resembling rocks. “Epsom Salt” comes from the word “Epsom salt” is a reference to the village of Epsom which is located just only a few miles from London in England in the UK, where the salt was said to be discovered in the year 400 years ago.
While it’s similar to table salt however, it is a bitter taste and isn’t intended to be consumed. Many people mix it into the warm water for a soak with the hope that it will ease sore or stressed muscles.
What is the best way to use Epsom salt?
The idea is that, when you mix Epsom salt with warm water it dissolves magnesium and sulfate. This allows it to get absorbed into your body through the skin. Many user reviews have claimed amazing benefits of using Epsom salt in this manner.
Scientific research, however, isn’t quite as vocal in its for. There are no conclusive research studies that prove that magnesium can be absorbed by your skin in sufficient amounts to correct deficiencies in the mineral. What research has been conducted is a bit sceptical.
Yet, integrative doctors generally suggest Epsom salt for those suffering from emotional stress and muscle pain. If you want to try it yourself, the procedure is quite simple and minimal in danger.
Pour around 300 grams (1.25 cups) of Epsom salt into a bath that is clean, as it gets filled the tub with boiling water. (Avoid making use of Epsom salt in a tub with jets, hot tub, or an whirlpool bath, in the event that the manufacturer states it’s safe.)
After the bath has been drained, test the water for its temperature, and adjust as necessary. Don’t risk scalding yourself.
Slowly ease yourself into the tub and let yourself relax. A 15-minute soak is enough.
When buying Epsom salt, be sure to buy one that’s 100% magnesium Sulfate.
The advantages of having taking an Epsom salt bath
Despite the absence of scientific data, tales about the healing powers in Epsom salts have been circulating for centuries, says Umeda, Dr. Umeda. The majority of people dissolve Epsom salt in bath water to release magnesium and sulfate-ions, and reap the benefits.
Stress relief
While some experts suggest that stress relief is derived from the hot bath itself some believe Epsom salt helps stabilize mood and ease stress, anxiety and depression. Indeed, some say that magnesium supplements serotonin (happiness or relaxation hormone) production in the brain.
Muscle pain
Epsom salt can be made to soothe muscles, and relieve tension in the shoulders, neck back, and skull. By relaxing your muscles surrounding your skull, the magnesium found in Epsom salt could help relieve migraines or headaches. This can help muscles that are sore during the recovery period after a workout.
Inflammation
Certain experts also believe magnesium is beneficial for lessening inflammation in organs within the body. This may help reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and improve digestion/bowel movement.
Effects of the Epsom salt bath
Generally, there aren’t any exceptions, but there are certain instances when caution is recommended, according to the Dr. Umeda. Epsom salt baths aren’t suggested for those who suffer from:
Severe skin inflammation.
Skin inflammations.
Open wounds.
Severe burns.
Furthermore, consumption of Epsom salt — like some of the online “detox” plans tout -may cause serious negative side effects like severe diarrhea, says Dr. Umeda. There aren’t any studies proving that taking Epsom salt in a liquid form is safe or beneficial. It is possible to cause abrupt and dramatic changes in bowel habits; which, in turn, can be very dangerous as it can lead to discomfort and dehydration.
If you’re curious about Epsom salt baths or have any concerns, check with your doctor before taking Epsom salts.
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