Magnesium is known to increase relaxation, reduce inflammation, and aid in muscle and nerve function,” says Corinne Croce, D.

A 2017 review of studies indicates that larger and more methodical studies on topical application of Epsom salt need to be done. The theory is that when you soak in an Epsom salt bath, these minerals get absorbed into your body through the skin. From wellness tips on how to unwind while you soak to advice on choosing the best bath salts , here’s everything you need to know about these self care essentials. While floating herbs may make your bath look pretty, they make cleaning your tub post-bath a total nightmare. Since Epsom salt contains magnesium, many believe that soaking in an Epsom salt bath can give you the same benefits.

That said, the potential benefits—and low-risk nature of the therapy—may make Epsom salt baths worth a try. The cool and refreshing scent provokes easy breath, making these luxury bath salts an excellent choice to use while having a cold. The Arthritis Foundation recommends soaking and stretching in a warm Epsom salt bath to help relieve stiff and aching joints and for relief of muscle soreness after exercising.

Antiinflammatory activityof cinnamon ( Cinnamomum zeylanicum) bark essential oil in a human skin disease model. Add 2 cups(approx 250-500g) of bath salt to warm water in a standard-sized bathtub (increase it if you have a larger bath). Dietary magnesiumintake and the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and all-causemortality: A dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Enriched with a nourishing blend of Mango and Jojoba Oils, your limbs will be left feeling beautifully soft and hydrated.While some experts suggest that stress relief comes from the warm bath itself, others believe Epsom salt helps stabilize mood and relieve stress, anxiety and depression.

If you’ve never had an Epsom salt bath, consider testing a patch of skin with magnesium sulfate and water first. And since Epsom salts don’t dissolve in cold water (water should be around 130 degrees Fahrenheit for them to dissolve), you’re forced to forgo that miserable ice bath in favor of something warmer—and likely, more relaxing.

However, magnesium, one of the minerals that make up Epsom salt, does have some actual health benefits. The theory is that when you soak in an Epsom salts bath, these get into your body through your skin. In the human body, it’s necessary for muscle and nerve function and maintaining a healthy immune system.

Perhaps it is the simple act of decompressing at night and having a wind-down regimen; of putting electronics away, lighting a couple of candles and relaxing our minds without distraction. Rachel Hill, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS, athletic trainer, Parkview Sports Medicine , helps shed some light on the topic. Epsom salt baths are a safe option for most people and provide a benefit without any adverse effects. Bath salts have long been used as an easy and inexpensive way to treat mental and physical health ailments. However, Epsom salts can sometimes have a drying effect, so you may want to have a quick rinse off afterwards, especially if you have dry skin anyway.Try these natural bath salts in a foot spa to get relief from sore feet after standing and working all day. Most manufacturers and suppliers of Epsom salts recommend adding two cupfuls (around 500g) of salts into a warm bath, before soaking for around 20 minutes.