Integrative medicine is a subfield of healthcare that is centered on treating both body and the mind, and examining the ways they interact. The treatments and techniques used by the holistic integrative approach to medicine comprise Reiki, acupuncture and hypnotherapy.
Another method integrative doctors often recommend to clients for its mental and physical health benefits are Epsom salt. Although no clinical studies have proven the health benefits from Epsom salt, numerous health professionals recommend it due to its simplicity of use affordable price, and its minimally invasive delivery.
What exactly is Epsom salt?
Epsom salt is one of numerous mineral salts naturally occurring made up made up of sulfate and magnesium in rocks-like formations. Its name “Epsom salt” is a nod to the village of Epsom located just close to London in England and where the salt was said to be discovered around 400 years ago.
Although it is similar to table salt but it has a bitter taste, and isn’t intended to consume. The majority of people dissolve it in warm bath water for relaxing with the goal of easing sore muscles.
What can you do with Epsom salt?
The idea is that when you add Epsom salt to warm water it dissolves magnesium and sulfate. This enables it to be absorbed into your body through your skin. Numerous user testimonials have proven positive effects from the use of Epsom salt this way.
Research in the field of science, however, isn’t quite as vocal in its for. There aren’t any conclusive research that suggests that magnesium could be absorbed via your skin in sufficient quantities to address potential deficiencies of the mineral. Furthermore, the research conducted has been questioned.
Still, integrative medical experts typically recommend Epsom salt to people with muscle pain and mental stress. If you’d like to try it for yourself, the procedure is fairly simple and low in risk.
Pour around 300 grams (1.25 cups) of Epsom salt in a tub that is clean after it fills up with warm water. (Avoid making use of Epsom salt in a tub with jets, a hot tub, or bathtubs with whirlpools as long as the manufacturer tells you it’s okay.)
Once the bath has been drawn then test the bath for its heat level and adjust it as necessary. It is not advisable to burn yourself.
Begin slowly to ease yourself into the tub and let yourself relax. A 15-minute soak is enough.
When you purchase Epsom salt, look to buy a product that’s 100% magnesium Sulfate.
The advantages of having the Epsom salt bath
Despite the lack of available evidence from the scientific community, tales of the healing power from Epsom salt has been circulated for ages, according to Dr. Umeda. The majority of people dissolve Epsom salt in bath water to release magnesium and sulfate-ions, and enjoy the benefits.
Stress relief
Some experts believe that stress relief is derived from the relaxing bath some believe Epsom salt aids in stabilizing mood and relieve depression, anxiety, and stress. Some even claim that magnesium supplementation increases serotonin (happiness or relaxation hormone) production in your brain.
Muscle pain
Epsom salt can be made to soothe muscles and ease tension in the shoulders, neck as well as the back and skull. By relaxing the muscles around your skull, the magnesium found in Epsom salt could ease migraines or headaches. This benefit can also aid muscles that are stiff during the healing time following an exercise.
Inflammation
Many experts believe magnesium is beneficial for decreasing inflammation in organs of the internal. This can help decrease the risk of heart diseases and help improve digestion and bowel movements.
Some of the side effects associated with bathing in an Epsom salt bath
In general, there’s no need to worry about it — but there are certain instances when caution is advised, says Dr. Umeda. Epsom salt baths shouldn’t be used for those with
Severe skin inflammation.
Skin infection.
Open wounds.
Severe burns.
Furthermore taking Epsom salt – according to some online “detox” programs claimmay cause serious adverse effects, such as severe diarrhea, says Umeda, Dr. Umeda. There are no studies that prove that the consumption of Epsom salt by mouth is safe or beneficial. It is possible to cause abrupt and dramatic changes in bowel habits; this, in turn can be very dangerous and lead to dehydration and discomfort.
If you’re interested in Epsom salt baths or you have any concerns, talk to your doctor before taking Epsom salts.
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