Amazing Uses for Epsom Salts You Didn’t Know

“NIH recommended dose for Epsom salt as a laxative is 2-6 teaspoons (dissolved in water) daily. There is a big difference between 2 and 6 teaspoons, please use caution when self-dosing and consult your physician to ensure you don’t have any underlying gastrointestinal issues prior to using Epsom salts. The only way Epsom salts would be beneficial to your plants is if your soil is deficient in magnesium or sulfate. Skip the Epsom salt and use high quality potting soil and commercially available fertilizer to ensure your plants are not deficient in key nutrients. Magnesium sulfate is not a common ingredient in washing machine and grout cleaners. Sodium carbonate is an ingredient in nearly all of these products. Sodium carbonate is a precursor to sodium biocarbonate, ie baking soda. Use baking soda as a washing machine or grout cleaner instead of Epsom salt. There’s no scientific evidence that indicates magnesium is absorbed through the skin. When removing a deep splinter, soaking the area in warm water will soften the skin and make it easier to remove, Epson salt won’t help or hinder this process. Since magnesium isn’t absorbed through the skin, I would caution against using Epsom salt on a sunburn. Instead, drink water to stay hydrated and use moisturizer or aloe vera to reduce dryness and soothe the skin. Finally, Epsom salt is not a scientifically backed treatment for cold and flu. If magnesium isn’t absorbed through the skin, how does bathing in Epsom salt increase white blood cells or relieve cold/flu? Spoiler alert: it doesn’t.”