Magnesium sulfate, or Epsom salt, is a chemical compound containing magnesium, oxygen, and sulfur. When added to a warm bath, Epsom salt helps ease orthopedic aches and pains and induce relaxation. Here are a few more health benefits of Epsom salt.

How Epsom Salt Can Improve Your Health

1. Reduce Swelling & Inflammation

Both magnesium and sulfate are easily absorbed through the skin. The magnesium in Epsom salt reduces swelling and inflammation from orthopedic issues, and the sulfate flushes toxins out of the proteins in the joints. When paired with a warm bath, the water’s heat helps reduce swelling and inflammation even further.

2. Replenish Magnesium Levels

A sufficient amount of magnesium is essential for many bodily processes, such as supporting muscle and nerve function, maintaining blood sugar levels, lowering blood pressure, and making DNA. Although magnesium is abundant in many food sources, many people still don’t get enough of it, and everyday stress can deplete magnesium in the body. An Epsom salt bath is one way to restore healthy levels of this important nutrient without having to take dietary supplements.

3. Eliminate Constipation

When Epsom salts are absorbed through the skin, they eventually enter the bloodstream and encourage the release of digestive hormones and neurotransmitters in the gut. As a result, the stimulation of the digestive system leads to an increase in bowel movements. If you’re constipated, a soak in an Epsom salt bath may be all that’s needed to remedy the issue.

For orthopedic discomfort that can’t be relieved by Epsom salts, visit Peter A. Matsuura, M.D. in Hilo, HI. For over 20 years, Dr. Matsuura and his team have provided surgical solutions for a variety of orthopedic conditions, including sports injuries and knee pain. They provide in-office X-ray imaging to help pinpoint the source of your discomfort, then devise the most appropriate course of treatment to get you back to full and optimal health. View their services online, or call (808) 969-3331 to schedule an appointment.