The Soothing Benefits of an Epsom Salt Bath and Why You Need One Now

Craving instant chill? This guide to Epsom salt bath benefits goes beyond the relaxation factor — see what the science says about the true benefits of Epsom salt baths.

Kate Gavlick |

Sep 10, 2024

Image of a woman in a modern, stone bath, sitting up with arms splayed to each side facing a wall with bath fixture. She wears a hibiscus flower in her hair and shows the benefits of Epsom salt baths. Why to Take an Epsom Salt Bath — Credit: iStock/olegbreslavtsev

Ready to (literally) soak all your worries away? Grab some candles, flower petals, and a good book; you’re going to want to take a long, hoat soak in an Epsom salt bath ASAP.

What is Epsom Salt?

Epsom salt isn’t a salt at all; it’s a pure mineral compound of magnesium sulfate that’s been used for centuries for a variety of ailments. Named after a saline spring where the compound was first diluted in Epsom, England, Epsom salt is filled with beneficial properties to soothe the body and mind.

If you’re curating your person wellness curriculum (which actress Zuri Adele says you should), then you’ll want to add Epsom salt baths and be sure to light some non-toxic candles.

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The Benefits of an Epsom Salt Bath

Image of a relaxing bath with rose petals sprinkled around and bowls filled with more alongside, as well as candles for a soothing bath with Epsom salt bath benefits. — *You can create your ideal relaxing epsom salt bath for maximum benefits.* – Credit: iStock/courtneyk

Epsom salt baths are commonly used to soothe a variety of health conditions including arthritis pain and swelling, bruises and sprains, fibromyalgia, ingrown toenails, insomnia, psoriasis, muscle soreness, sunburn, and tired feet, according to WebMD. If you have tight hips, which are surprisingly tied to your emotions, as is shoulder tension, a soothing soak might be just the thing.

Here’s what happens when you soak in epsom salts

When Epsom salt is added to warm bath water, it is broken down into magnesium and sulfate. Simply soaking the body in Epsom salt is thought to replenish levels of magnesium, a mineral that many people (roughly 75 percent, according some experts) are deficient in.

Have you taken a soothing soak with Epsom salt? Please share your experiences with the community in the comments below.

Here’s why magnesium is essential to the human body

Magnesium is essential for over 300 enzymatic functions, which are responsible for regulating metabolic behaviors including energy and glutathione production.

Magnesium is also essential for maintaining blood sugar levels, as healthy magnesium levels are linked with lower incidences of diabetes, according to a 2006 study.

Taking an Epsom salt bath is also a wonderful way to reduce stress. Simply soaking in a bath of warm water has been shown to clinically improve mood and even have an antidepressant effect. Soaking in a magnesium rich bath can help to boost mood even more, as magnesium salts have been shown reduce stress and improve neuropsychiatric disorders, according to this study.

How to Take an Epsom Salt Bath and Get All the Benefits

Image of epsom bath salts on a white tray with a spoon and a bath brush. There are many benefits to taking a bath with epsom salts — *Nothing beats a good soak in an epsom salt bath.* – Credit: Photo by Forte Foundry on Unsplash

Taking an Epsom salt bath is the perfect way to unwind after a long day.

Simply fill up a bathtub with warm water and add in two cups of Epsom salts. Grab a good book, light some candles, add your favorite bath products and soak for at least fifteen minutes.

Take deep breaths, quiet your mind, and relax! Remember to drink lots of water after your Epsom salt bath as hot baths can be dehydrating.

Instant bliss.

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