Taking a bath can be a very relaxing experience, but it’s time to kick it up a notch with Epsom salts!
What are Epsom salts?
Epsom salt (magnesium sulfat)e provides a transdermal source (through the skin) of the mineral magnesium that is easily absorbed. Magnesium deficiency is all too common, as it’s needed for over 300 reactions in the body. It’s also insufficient in the standard American diet, as well as depleted by the body during times of stress. According to Dr. Carolyn Dean, ND, MD, low magnesium levels can play a role in:
- Asthma
- Blood clots
- Bowl diseases
- Cystitis
- Depression
- Detoxification
- Diabetes
- Fatigue
- Heart Disease
- Hypertension
- Hypoglycemia
- Insomnia
- Kidney Disease
- Liver Disease
- Migraines
- Muscle & nerve problems
- Osteoporosis
- Tooth decay
- Raynauds Syndrome
- Anxiety & panic attacks
While you can get magnesium from foods like fruits, grains and dark chocolate, most Americans come up short. Think of an Epsom salt bath as an additional and relaxing way to get more!
Epsom salts and detoxification
Magnesium is needed by the liver in sufficient amounts for Phase 2 detoxification to support detoxification pathways such as: Methylation, Sulfation and Glucuronidation. Adequate magnesium is also needed to support glutathione synthesis, the master antioxidant of your cells!
How to take an Epsom salt bath
- Start with 1-2 cups of Epsom salts per bath and increase up to 4 cups or so over the course of a few weeks. Some people can get very sleepy after a detox bath, so it’s best to do right before bed!
- Add 1-2 drops of Lavender essential oil to the Epsom salt before dissolving it in water (optional).
- You can also add 1/2-1 cup of baking soda if you wish to help absorb more magnesium (optional).
- Soak for at least 15-20 minutes to get the full benefit.
- Try to take at least 1-2 per week to provide a source of transdermal magnesium as well the added benefits of relaxation and stress reduction!
Warning: Epsom salts can cause drowsiness in some people, so it’s best to not overdue your first bath with too much Epsom salt!
References:
- http://drcarolyndean.com/magnesium_miracle/
- http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/magnesium/index.html#function
- Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com/glazeimage
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