When it comes to relaxing and recuperating, Epsom salts are a timeless remedy used around the world. In fact, Epsom salt use is still as prevalent today as it was hundreds of years ago – and for good reason.

At WholyMe, we love Epsom salts. In our popular Relief Salts, we combine pure and natural Epsom salts with a carefully selected assortment of organic beneficial oils to help you unwind, whatever your stressors. The result is magnificent!.

But what exactly are Epsom salts? And what should they be used for? That’s exactly what we explore in this article.

What Are Epsom Salts?

Also known as bath salts, Epsom salts are naturally occurring mineral salts made of magnesium sulfate, which dissolve in water to release magnesium and sulfate ions. They have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for an array of ailments (see below!).

Epsom salts are named after the English town of Epsom, in Surrey. However, these days, the majority of Epsom salts are manufactured synthetically to cater for increased global demand.

The Top 7 Epsom Salt Uses

Now you know what they are, why and how should you use them? Let’s take a look…

1. Stress Relief and Sleep Aid

One of our favourite uses for Epsom salts is as a stress reliever and sleep aid. For centuries they have been added to hot baths to traditionally encourage relaxation.

We recommend using a few handfuls of our Relief Salts. This special blend contains the calming scents of essential oils such as eucalyptus and frankincense oil, which are traditionally used to bring about feelings of relaxation and relief, and encourage better sleep. Click here to explore our Relief Empson Salts

2. Relief for Fatigued Muscles and Joints

Using bath salts for muscle recovery remains a popular healing solution for athletes around the world.

The relieving effect on fatigued muscles and joints is amplified when those Epsom salts have been infused with specific recovery-enhancing botanicals.

For example, our Relief Salts contain arnica oil, which is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. As we highlight in our article on the benefits of arnica oil, studies have proven how effective this substance is at providing post-exercise pain relief.

3. Foot Soak

Whether you’ve just completed a half-marathon, an epic hike, or just been on your feet all day at work, a hot foot soak is one of those magic ‘Aaaahhh’ moments we all crave.

To your soak, add in some Epsom salt for your feet. Epsom salt can help reduce swelling and relieve aches, while also exfoliating the dead skin on your feet to leave them feeling more refreshed and ready to go again.

4. Skin Exfoliator

Epsom salts can make an excellent exfoliator for your entire body, helping you remove dead cells to uncover the soft skin below.

To benefit from this, mix a handful of Epsom salts with a small amount of water, so that you have a coarse paste, then use it as you would any other exfoliator.

5. Sunburn Relief

While British summer weather isn’t always guaranteed to be sunny, we can guarantee that if there is sun, there will be sunburn!

Luckily, the anti-inflammatory properties in Epsom salts can help soothe the pain associated with sunburn. However, if sunburn is your main complaint, use lukewarm water instead of a soak in a hot bath and avoid Epsom salts with oils or fragrances.

6. Cold and Flu Relief

We don’t know about you, but if you are feeling under the weather, you will do anything to make yourself feel warm and comfortable. One way to do this is to take a soak in a hot bath using our Relief Salts.

Firstly, studies reveal that elevating your body temperature can help fight viruses, which is why the body does this naturally when you are ill. Soaking in a hot bath is a great way to raise your body temperature and give it a helping hand.

Meanwhile, using our Relief Salts with eucalyptus oil can help open the airways and relieve nasal congestion thanks to a compound called cineole, which was found to be an effective treatment for sinus complaints.

7. Relieve Aches and Pains During Pregnancy

A lovely soak in Epsom salts during pregnancy can be a great way to relax, and help ease the many aches and pains you may be feeling.

However, use caution. The bathwater should be warm not hot, and the Epsom salts should not contain essential oils (in this case, our Relief Salts are not suitable!).

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So, whether you want to recover after a high-intensity workout or simply want the silky-smooth feet of a goddess, a bag of Epsom salts is an essential part of any bathroom cabinet.

Our Relief Salts are certified natural by the Soil Association and the essential oils we add – frankincense, eucalyptus, arnica, and hemp seed oil – are all certified organic. You are guaranteed a potent batch of salts that results in the most beautifully relaxing bath or foot soak. Aaaahhh!

How do you plan to use Epsom salts? Click here to explore our Relief Empson Salts