Epsom Salts

Magnesium sulphate, or Epsom salt, takes its name from the town of Epsom in England, near which it was first discovered in the 17th century. This exceptional mineral, also known as bitter salt or epsomite, occurs naturally in nature - for example in lakes or limestone mines.

What is Epsom salt and why is it so popular?

Epsom salt is a mineral composed of oxygen, magnesium and sulphate. Its effects are attributed to sulphate ions, which contribute to normal cell function, and magnesium ions, of which a significant proportion of the population is deficient. Magnesium supplementation has beneficial effects on your muscles, cardiovascular system, relief of stress and getting a good night's rest.

Don't be fooled by the name - unlike table salt, Epsom salt cannot be used to flavour food, as it has a very bitter taste. But you can use it in countless other ways - bitter salt is great as bath salt, for the hair, as a body scrub and even as a plant fertiliser.

Epsom salt - the effects of external use

When used externally, many believe that bitter salt has significant positive effects on the body. And what can Epsom salt be expected to help with?

• Detoxification of the body
• Relief of sore muscles and joints
• Regulation of heart rate and blood pressure
• Helps with dry skin and skin problems
• Anti-stress and for a good night's sleep
• Fights against migraines

Although scientific research still disagrees on whether magnesium and other beneficial substances of epsomite are absorbed by the skin, many people do not like using Epsom salt.

Epsom salt - there are countless uses

For the body

• Bath salt: Epsom salt can relieve swelling and relax muscles, for example after sporting activities. Epsom salt can also help with stress relief and overall relaxation. Bath dosage: For every 25-30 kg of your weight, add about half a cup (or 100 ml) of bitter salt to hot water. It is very soluble in water. For maximum beneficial effects, it is recommended to take a bath in Epsom salt for at least 40 minutes.
• Body scrub: Bitter salt can also be used as a scrub to soften and brighten the skin all over the body. Body scrub application: Mix epsomite with olive oil to form a thick paste and a perfect all natural scrub is born! Gently massage the mixture in circular motions and then rinse. Your skin will be clean and soft - just like new.
• Facial scrub: It works similarly on facial skin. Replace olive oil with your favourite skin cleansing gel, and a deep-cleansing facial scrub is born.
• Foot bath: Another discipline for which Epsom salt is perfect - a foot bath. Dosing of Epsom salt in a foot bath: Dissolve half a cup (100 ml) of Epsom salt in a tub of hot water, soak your feet and feel instant relief from heaviness, swelling and fatigue. This bitter salt also neutralises and eliminates odours, so it is perfect for your feet.

For the hair

• Combats oily hair: Another use of Epsom salt is for hair. Add it to your shampoo and use as normal. In this way, you can prevent excessive oil in your hair.
• For added hair volume: You can also add bitter salt to your conditioner - it can add a rich volume to limp hair.

In the home and garden

• As a cleaner: Magnesium sulphate can also be used as an excellent kitchen or bathroom cleaner. Mixed with soap, it forms a coarse paste that does a great job of removing dirt from surfaces.
• As an organic fertiliser: Magnesium sulphate is beneficial for plants and trees. The fertiliser can typically be found under the name bitter salt, and can be used dissolved in a watering can, in a spray or even sprinkled onto the soil. It is also an all-natural mineral, which is why ecology enthusiasts also find bitter salt useful in the garden - and it even helps to repel slugs.

Internal use as a laxative

• Against constipation: Caution - you must seek out food grade Epsom salts for the purpose of consumption. For the relief of constipation, dissolve 2-6 teaspoons of food-grade Epsom salts in a large glass of water and drink. The laxative effect should take effect within 30 minutes to several hours. Ingestion of more than the appropriate dose or insufficient fluid intake may cause side effects, so always consult your doctor for internal use.

With the addition of herbs and other ingredients, Epsom salt conjures up a dream bath

Bath salt is perfect when combined with herbs, essential oils or vitamins. Try the pre-mixed blends and enjoy a fragrant relaxing bath. For example:

• Epsom salt with lavender not only smells amazing. Lavender enhances stress relief and a restful sleep.
• Epsom salt with mint can improve airway patency.
• Epsom salt with vitamin C promotes skin regeneration and has a rejuvenating effect.
• Epsom salt with chamomile can relieve a cold while gently caring for the skin.

Whether you choose to take a bath, exfoliate or use it on your hair, Epsom salt is simply a versatile natural miracle. Discover the beneficial effects of Epsom salt for yourself!