Integrative medicine is a subfield of medicine that focuses on treating the body and the mind, and examining the ways they interact. Some of the therapies and methods used in the holistic integrative approach to medicine are the use of acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and reiki.
Another instrument integrative medical professionals frequently recommend for its mental and physical health advantages are Epsom salt. Although no clinical studies have established the advantages from Epsom salt, a lot of healthcare practitioners recommend it due to its convenience affordable price, and its minimally surgery-like delivery.
What exactly is Epsom salt?
Epsom salt is among several mineral salts that occur naturally that are a mixture made up of sulfate and magnesium in rocks-like formations. Its name “Epsom salt” is a reference towards the city of Epsom situated only a few miles from London in England and where the salt was believed to have been discovered around 400 years ago.
Although it is similar to table salt however, it is a bitter taste, and isn’t intended for consumption. The majority of people dissolve it in the warm water for an in-spray with the intention of easing tension or sore muscles.
What can you do with Epsom salt?
The concept is that when you add Epsom salt to warm water it dissolves magnesium and sulfate, allowing it to absorb into the body via the skin. Many user reviews have claimed amazing benefits of the use of Epsom salt in this manner.
Research in the field of science, however, isn’t as vocal in its backing. There aren’t any conclusive studies that show that magnesium can be absorbed by your skin in sufficient quantities to correct deficiencies in the mineral. The research that has been conducted is a bit sceptical.
However, integrative medical professionals generally suggest Epsom salt for people suffering from tension in their muscles and mental stress. If you’d like to test it yourself, the procedure is fairly simple and low at risk.
Pour around 300 grams (1.25 cups) of Epsom salt into a bathtub that is clean as it is filled by hot water. (Avoid making use of Epsom salt in tubs that has jets, a hot tub, or an whirlpool bath, in the event that the manufacturer states it’s safe.)
After the bath has been drained take a look at the water to determine its temperature and adjust it as necessary. Don’t risk scalding yourself.
Relax slowly into the tub and then relax. A 15-minute soak is enough.
When buying Epsom salt, make sure to purchase a product that is 100 percent magnesium sulfurate.
The advantages of having the Epsom salt bath
Despite the absence of research data, stories about the healing properties from Epsom salt are circulated for ages, according to Umeda, Dr. Umeda. People typically dissolve Epsom salt in bath water to release magnesium and sulfate ions to benefit from.
Stress relief
Some experts believe that stress relief is derived from the warmth of the bath Others believe that Epsom salt can help stabilize mood and ease depression, anxiety, and stress. Some even claim that magnesium supplementation increases serotonin (happiness or the relaxation hormone) production in the brain.
Muscle pain
Epsom salt can be utilized to ease muscle tension and ease discomfort in shoulders, neck back, and skull. By relaxing the muscles around your skull, magnesium contained in Epsom salt can help ease migraine or headache. This can help muscles that are sore during the recovery phase following a workout.
Inflammation
Many experts believe magnesium can be beneficial in decreasing inflammation in organs of the internal. This could help lower the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and help improve digestion and bowel movements.
The side effects of the Epsom salt bath
There aren’t many however there are instances when caution is recommended, according to Umeda, Dr. Umeda. Epsom salt baths aren’t suggested for those with
Severe skin inflammation.
Skin inflammations.
Open wounds.
Burns that are severe.
Furthermore, taking Epsom salt — as some websites “detox” plans claim -could cause serious adverse effects, such as severe diarrhea, warns the Dr. Umeda. There are no studies that prove that drinking Epsom salt by mouth is healthy or safe. Ingestion of it can cause sudden and drastic changes in the bowel’s behavior. which, in turn, could be extremely dangerous and lead to dehydration and discomfort.
If you’re interested in Epsom salt baths, or have any questions, consult your physician prior to using Epsom salts.