8 INCREDIBLE Uses Of Epsom Salt
Who knew that this everyday household item could be so amazingly useful?
Epsom salt might sound as simple as the salt we sprinkle on our food, but in reality these two substances are nothing alike. Epsom salt is actually made up of two minerals, magnesium and sulfate, both of which the majority of us don't get enough of in our bodies.
That, in addition to Epsom salt's natural anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties, are what make it so incredibly therapeutic and powerful for a variety of uses.
Here are 8 external ways to put this mineral to good use:
1. Soothe and relax
Although drinking Epsom salt can offer internal benefits, your skin can also absorb the minerals and reap the rewards. Sprinkle some into a warm bath and soak to ease pain and tension all over your body. You can also use this method to relieve cramps, aches, and inflammation. Try this before bed for a guaranteed restful night's sleep!
2. Exfoliate
The texture of Epsom salt crystals makes it a very effective skin and face treatment. Try rubbing the salts onto damp skin to remove dead skin cells on your body and feet. To use it for your face, just add a touch of it to your typical exfoliating cream or lotion, rub it on as usual, then rinse.
3. Balance out your hair troubles
For oily hair troubles, add 2 tablespoons of it to your bottle of shampoo, massage into your hair and roots, then rinse. This will cleanse your scalp and remove built-up dead skin cells. Repeat the process for best results.
If you struggle with dry hair, add equal parts of Epsom salt and conditioner into a separate bowl. Place it in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until it's nice and warm but doesn't burn your skin (test it with your finger before applying). Shampoo first as usual, then massage the Epsom salt conditioner into your hair thoroughly. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse.
4. Alleviate bruises
The anti-inflammatory properties of this mineral compound makes it a great choice for fighting the soreness and achiness of bruises and sprains. Simply soak the affected area in a bowl of Epsom salt and warm water, or if the area is extensive, fill up your bathtub with the mixture and soak your whole body.
5. Ease and treat your feet
Foot baths can be absolutely glorious for relieving aches and pains and relaxing your feet after a long day. An Epsom salt bath not only offers its mineral properties to aid in your relaxation, but it's also very useful in treating athelete's foot and other types of fungal infections. Just add a bit of the salt to warm water, soak, and enjoy!
6. Clean your washing machine
Although our washing machine's purpose is to clean things, the machine itself can be susceptible to build-up of dirt and bacteria, as well as detergents and soaps. To keep it sparkling and clean as new, just sprinkle a bit of Epsom salt inside and run an empty hot water cycle.
7. Clean tiles
Tiles and especially tile grout can be a pain to keep clean, but Epsom salt might be just the magical solution you're looking for! Mix together equal parts Epsom salt and dish soap, then rub it onto the surface in your kitchen, bathroom, or anywhere else that it needs done, indoors or out. After a minute or two, scrub the surface thoroughly and enjoy the results.
8. Wash dishes
Sometimes regular dish soap just isn't enough to do the trick. When you encounter a bit of stubborn food stuck to the surface of your pots, pans, or other dishes, add a bit of Epsom salt to the dish and scrub. This will work wonders against stuck food bits without damaging your dishes in the process.
Want to know how to use Epsom salt to improve your garden? Here's our recipe for an all-natural weed killer!
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