Epsom salt is a magnesium compound that has been used in the treatment of multiple ailments for hundreds of years.
It is used as a healing agent and pain reliever in home remedies and is also a famous ingredient for hot baths.
Apart from that, the high amount of magnesium present in Epsom salt also makes it the star ingredient for foot soaks.
An Epsom salt foot soak will not only calm your nerves and help you unwind but it also offers multiple other health benefits.
When you soak your feet in an Epsom salt solution, the skin soaks up magnesium present in the solution, leading to multiple benefits from improved foot health to smoother skin.
However, before you get ready to enjoy a relaxing foot soak, you must know how to use Epsom salt and what precautions to take while using it for a foot soak.
It is also essential to know how much Epsom salt for a foot soak is too much.
Find out everything you need to know in this ultimate Epsom salt foot soak guide!
How To Do It
A DIY Epsom salt foot soak is easy and simple. The only ingredients you’ll need are water and some Epsom salt.
- Take a small container and fill it with hot water. The container should be big enough to immerse your feet till ankles.
- Add about half a cup of Epsom salt to the water and dissolve.
- Soak your feet in the Epsom salt solution and relax. Rest your feet in the solution for about 20 – 30 minutes.
- Rinse your feet with warm water and dry thoroughly.
- For best results, don’t forget to moisturize your feet.
You can adjust the water temperature according to your liking but generally 92°F and 100°F is the ideal temperature range to ease soreness.
You can also add essential oils of your choice to get added benefits. Consider adding a spoon of olive oil to promote proper mixing of the essential oils in the water.
Benefits Of Epsom Salt Foot Soak
Even without any extra ingredients, soaking your feet in warm water after a long day is a nice way to relax.
It gets even better when you add a little Epsom salt in the water.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common benefits of Epsom salt foot soaks.
1. Reduces Symptoms Of Ingrown Toenail Infections And Athlete’s Foot
Toenail infections can lead to discolored and distorted toenails.
Athlete’s foot, on the other hand, is also a common condition that can lead to rashes on the skin and discolored toenails.
Epsom salt can help you treat these fungal foot infections.
While it doesn’t cure the infection itself, it helps remove moisture from the skin, which makes it difficult for fungus to spread.
2. Exfoliates The Skin
Epsom salt has a crystallized compound structure. Even when dissolved in water, it still exfoliates the skin, making your feet soft and supple.
Since soaking your feet in Epsom salt solution reduces roughness, it also helps avoid heel cracks.
3. Helps Alleviate Pain
An Epsom salt foot soak is an ideal solution for aching feet. The absorption of magnesium through the skin boosts the level of minerals in the body.
This works to reduce inflammation and reduce pain. Some people also claim that Epsom salt can remove toxins from the body to alleviate pain.
However, this theory is yet to be backed with strong evidence.
FAQs About Epsom Salt Foot Soak
Do you know how much Epsom salt for a foot soak is too much?
Are you confused about how frequently you should opt for Epsom salt foot soak and what precautions you should take?
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Epsom salt foot soaks to answer all your questions!
1. How Much Epsom Salt For A Foot Soak Is Enough?
A half or three-quarters of a cup of Epsom salt should be enough for a small-sized container.
You can also rub crystallized Epsom salt directly on your feet to see enhanced results.
2. How Frequently Can I Do It?
Soak your feet in an Epsom salt solution regularly for best results but don’t do it daily as it can cause dryness.
Soaking your feet once or twice a week should do the trick!
3. Can People With Diabetes Try Epsom Salt Foot Soak?
People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot infections.
If you already have dry skin, Epsom salt foot soak can lead to breaks and cracks in the skin, which is particularly dangerous for people with diabetes.
This is why it is advisable for people with diabetes to avoid all kinds of foot soaks without consulting their doctor.
4. What Are The Best Essential Oils For Epsom Salt Foot Soaks?
You can add a few drops of any essential oil of your choice. Our best picks include:
- Eucalyptus essential oil: Ideal for treating fungal infections due to its antimicrobial properties. It also helps in reducing the symptoms of cold and cough.
- Lavender essential oil: Ideal for people looking for extra relaxation or ways to sleep better.
- Citrus essential oil: Ideal for treating foot infections. The sweet citrus smell will also work well to lift your mood.
- Tea Tree essential oil: Ideal for reducing redness and inflammation.
- Lemongrass essential oil: Ideal for treating foot infections due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammation, and antifungal properties.
5. What Precautions Should I Take During Epsom Salt Foot Soaks?
Epsom salt foot soaks are generally safe for most people. When used correctly, Epsom salt is unlikely to produce any side effects.
However, you may want to avoid using it without a doctor’s consultation if you have severely dry skin.
Also, avoid using it if you have open wounds or blisters on your feet.
Epsom salt foot soaks are an excellent way to relax and unwind and keep your feet in good health. Try it today to see the results for yourself!
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