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If you’ve been following this blog for any length of time, you probably know that I’m absolutely obsessed with Epsom salt—especially when it comes to luxurious, therapeutic baths! 😉
While I’ve raved about its incredible ability to soothe sore muscles after a tough workout, Epsom salt offers so much more beyond just post-exercise recovery. Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite ways to use this magical mineral—not just for beauty and wellness, but also for home care and even gardening!
Despite its name, Epsom salt isn’t actually a salt like the one in your kitchen. Instead, it’s a mineral compound composed of magnesium and sulfate.
Its name originates from Epsom, England, where it was first discovered in natural mineral springs. As far back as the 1600s, people would travel to these spas to soak in the healing waters. Now, we can enjoy these benefits from the comfort of our own homes.
10 Incredible Uses for Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a powerhouse ingredient that can detoxify, exfoliate, relieve pain, and even improve digestion. Here’s how you can make the most of it:
1. Detox and Rejuvenate with an Epsom Salt Bath
Magnesium plays a crucial role in detoxification by helping flush out heavy metals like mercury, lead, and aluminum from the body.
To enjoy a detox bath, simply add 1–2 cups of Epsom salt to warm bathwater and soak for 10–15 minutes, two to three times a week.
Enhance the experience with a few drops of essential oils—lavender is my go-to for relaxation!
2. Natural Remedy for Digestion & Constipation Relief
Epsom salt can also be taken orally (with caution) to relieve occasional constipation. Magnesium supports healthy digestion by aiding enzyme production in the pancreas and relaxing the digestive tract.
3. Relieve Muscle Pain & Tension
Whether you’ve been hitting the gym hard or just feeling tight and achy, an Epsom salt soak can work wonders. It helps flush out lactic acid buildup, reduces inflammation, and supports nerve and muscle function.
Soaking in a warm Epsom salt bath after a workout will help ease soreness and speed up muscle recovery.
4. Exfoliate & Soften Your Skin
Epsom salt makes an excellent natural exfoliator. The coarse texture gently removes dead skin cells while its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation.
To create an exfoliating scrub, mix 2 cups of Epsom salt with 1 cup of coconut oil and a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
5. Remove Splinters with Ease
The salt draws out the splinter naturally while reducing swelling and discomfort.
For fingers or toes, dissolve 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in a cup of warm water and soak the area for a few minutes.
6. Boost Your Garden’s Growth
Epsom salt is like an all-natural fertilizer that enhances plant growth by replenishing essential nutrients.
Magnesium aids seed germination and promotes healthy fruit and flower production, while sulfur supports vitamin and amino acid formation.
7. Keep Pests Away
Epsom salt is also a great natural pest deterrent. It can ward off garden invaders like slugs and snails while providing plants with valuable nutrients. Simply sprinkle dry Epsom salt around the base of your plants.
It can even help keep raccoons out of your trash! Sprinkle some around your garbage cans, as they dislike the smell. Just be sure to reapply after rain.
8. Scrub Away Burnt Food from Pans
Stubborn, burnt-on food? Epsom salt to the rescue! The coarse granules gently scrub away residue without damaging your cookware.
Just sprinkle a teaspoon of Epsom salt into the pan, add some warm water, and scrub with a sponge. This trick works wonders on both metal and glass cookware!
9. Deep Clean Tile & Grout
Epsom salt’s abrasive texture makes it perfect for scrubbing grime from tile and grout.
To make a powerful DIY cleaner, mix equal parts Epsom salt and dish soap (I love Dr. Bronner’s).
Apply the mixture to stained tiles, let it sit for a couple of minutes, then scrub and rinse.
10. Add Volume to Your Hair
Looking for a natural way to boost your hair’s volume?
To try this, mix equal parts of Epsom salt and your regular shampoo.
Massage it into your scalp, rinse, and repeat.
Final Thoughts
Epsom salt is truly a multipurpose marvel, offering benefits for your body, home, and garden.
Whether you’re looking to unwind with a soothing bath, give your skin a glow-up, or keep your plants thriving, this simple mineral can do it all.
Next time you’re at the store, grab a bag and start incorporating these tricks into your routine—you won’t regret it!
