Scientifically referred to as magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, Epsom salt has numerous health and cosmetic benefits. By helping you detoxify more successfully, Epsom salt has its value in re-balancing the body, so it can deal with excess weight, reduce the appearance of cellulite and make you healthier and fitter. Find out about this safe and easy technique for weight loss.
About Epsom Salt
Epsom salt gets its name from Epsom in Surrey, England where it was first discovered in a bitter saline spring. Despite being called a ‘salt’, the substance is not actually a salt, but a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. The small clear crystals have wide applications that include:
- Muscle soreness relief.
- Quicker recovery from minor injuries such as muscle strains.
- Hair treatment that helps you get rid of excess oils.
- Alleviation of mild sunburn pain and irritation (alternative to aloe vera).
- Solution for dry lips.
- Relief from bug bites and bee stings.
- Skin exfoliator (great for pedicure, deep exfoliation and facial masks).
- Treatment for poison ivy rashes.
- Gives you a general feeling of relaxation that helps you catch up on sleep.
- Epsom salt can also be used to clean tiles and walls in your home.
- For more Epsom salt uses read my post about the most extraordinary uses for Epsom salt.
How does Epsom Salt Work for Weight Loss
According to research conducted by Rosemary Waring, a British biochemist at the University of Birmingham, magnesium and sulfate get absorbed through the skin when we bath in Epsom salt. Blood levels of the two minerals increase after a good soak and they can then work to rid body of environmental toxins, de-stress and heal various skin issues.
Lack of magnesium in the body can lead to heart problems, high blood pressure, headaches and backaches; and low sulfate can manifest as body exhaustion. Supplying both of them boosts all body systems and balances their function.
Often, weight gain is associated with emotional eating and poor nutrient absorption. When you expel toxins and feel more relaxed, you are less likely to over-eat and you metabolize food in a more efficient manner.
Different Opinions
Some dispute the use of Epsom salt in baths and claim that the health benefits don’t have sufficient scientific backing. However, the calming and relaxing effects are a very subjective experience and can change the way your body operates and processes nutrients. Silkier skin, too, is a definite bonus.
Even if the healing effects of magnesium and sulfate are not supported by everyone, Epsom salt baths are something you can experiment with and then decide for yourself.
How to Make Epsom Salt Bath for Weight Loss
Start slowly by adding one tablespoon of Epsom salt to your bath water daily.
Gradually increase the amount of salt to two cups. If you start with big quantities without a gentle introduction first, you might suffer some adverse symptoms of a quick detox such as irritability, mood swings or hyperactivity. Some suggest that doses of above 600 grams don’t bring any additional effects, so don’t overdo it.
Soak in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes and unwind. Don’t stay in the bath for longer than 25 minutes or you might end up exhausting yourself.
Bring with you enough water and make sure you rehydrate well during and after your hot bath.
If you find a daily bath to be too much for you, reduce it to two to three times a week. The opinions on what a good frequency is are mixed, so listen to your body’s responses and adjust.
Some Precautions
Before using Epsom salt, consult with a health care professional, especially if you have a specific condition or any concerns regarding its effects and interactions.
The baths for weight loss should not be used if you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, kidney stones or kidney disease.
Special Epsom Salt Baths
Epsom salt and baking soda
Baking soda is a strong body cleanser and detoxes the body. Some suggest that is can also be used if suffering from heavy metal or nuclear poisoning. It binds with uranium and other toxic chemicals and alkalizes the body. Baking soda has 7 uses as a kitchen medicine.
For your weight loss bath, first, follow the gradual approach as described above. Then, mix one cup each of baking soda and Epsom salt into your bathing water. Enjoy the sensation!
Epsom salt and ginger
Ginger opens up the pores and allows you to sweat more and release more toxins. Ginger can also be used as a medicine for great health and is also mentioned in my e-Book The Herbal Remedies Guide.
This treatment will work better if you add ginger to very hot water.
Add 2 tablespoons of crushed fresh ginger in hot water and follow it with 2 cups of Epsom salt (or less if you are only starting with your regimen).
Immerse yourself in the soothing and healing water and enjoy up to 20 minutes.
Epsom salt and apple cider vinegar (ACV)
ACV is known for its beneficial effects on metabolism and skin. I’ve already mentioned previously how to use ACV for weight loss.
Mix 1 cup ACV or white vinegar with 1/2 cup Epsom salt into hot bath water.
Soak in vinegar bath for no longer than 30 minutes.
Essential oils and Epsom salt baths
Some people like to add a bit of their preferred essential oil to the bath. This can increase the soothing and relaxing effects. Add 10-20 drops of essential oil for a standard size tub. Use lavender as it’s proven to induce relaxation.
