Why Is Epsom Salt Good for Your Feet?
About Epsom Salt and Your Feet
Also known as magnesium sulfate, Epsom salt has many therapeutic benefits. You can
add it to a warm bath to:
- Relieve stress
- Reduce muscle aches
- Invigorate tired feet
- Reduce inflammation
- Soften skin
What Is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt is a mix of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. Magnesium is a soft mineral in
many hot springs and limestone caves. Despite its name, it is not a salt, but it does
have a similar crystalline appearance to table salt.
A History of Epsom Salts
Like many natural remedies, Epsom salt has been used for centuries. In 1618, a farmer
in Epsom, a small town near London, England, discovered a pool of salty water on his
property. He also noticed that wounds on his animals seemed to heal faster when they
bathed in this pool.
After experimenting with different ways to use this discovery, the farmer began selling
evaporated salt from the pool as a health and beauty aid. In a few years, Epsom
became a popular destination for people looking for natural ways to heal their illnesses
by bathing in hot, salty water.
In 1695, a chemist named Nehemiah Grew developed a brew made from the salts that
he sold it as a body detoxifier and cleanser.
Today, Epsom salt comes from all over the world. It is mined from dolomite rocks that
are in many mountain regions.
Foot Benefits of Epsom Salt
In her book “Natural Solutions to Common Foot Problems,” Dr. Dawn notes that its
specific compounds are natural, proven healers. For instance, magnesium helps our
bodies produce more serotonin, which is the hormone that regulates our moods and
makes us feel happy.
Taking a warm bath with Epsom salts allows the healing
properties of magnesium to enter our pores and create a tranquil, serene mood.
Sulfur has a long history as a natural antibacterial. It can heal acne, gently exfoliate the
skin, and reduce redness and irritation.
Enhance the Goodness with Essential Oils
These beneficial compounds make Epsom salt ideal for soothing several foot
conditions. Try an Epsom salt bath if you have arthritis, tendonitis, gout, or joint pain,
ingrown toenails and bunion, and hammertoe pain. The best part is it feels great, it’s an
emotional “time out” and it’s reasonably priced.
We recommend adding a few drops of essential oils to your Epsom salt bath to enhance
the benefits. Try adding pure therapeutic grade essential oil for a powerfully healing
bath.
Pair these Essential oils with Epsom Salt for added benefits:
Lavender – relaxing and soothing (emotional benefits and skin benefits)
Peppermint – energizing and soothes sore muscles (increases blood flow)
Tea Tree – antibacterial and antifungal (excellent for athletes foot infections and toenail
fungus)
Are There Any Side Effects?
Epsom salt is safe for most people to use. However, you should avoid using it if you
have open wounds, skin infections, or severe burns.
Heal Your Feet the Natural Way
At The Organic Foot, we support a holistic approach to good foot health that
incorporates natural remedies and essential oils. In Dr. Dawn’s book, “Natural Solutions
to Common Foot Problems,” you’ll find more ways to keep your feet healthy and happy.