Epsom Salt – Is It for Real?

Has someone you know told you that an Epsom salt soak will ease discomfort due to sore muscles, joint disorders, arthritis, or skin conditions? Are you wondering if it really is the cure-all that people claim it is, or perhaps deciding if Epsom salt is right for you? The short answer is that it can’t hurt and might help.

Here is some information that Dr. Jason Grossman would like you to know:

What Is Epsom Salt?

Epsom salt is a commonly used health and beauty aid derived from water that is rich in minerals. It is named after the English town of Epsom. It is called a “salt,” but it isn’t like the salt that you use in the kitchen. It is rich not in sodium chloride, but in magnesium and sulfate.

Can Epsom Salt Help Me?

Maybe. For years, people have claimed that Epsom salt benefits foot health by relieving aches and pains, improving circulation, decreasing inflammation, reducing foot odor, and softening skin. Other claims are that Epsom salt is anti-microbial and anti-fungal, so a soak can help heal infections including toenail fungus and athlete’s foot. People even say that Epsom salt can help improve mood and reduce anxiety!

Unfortunately, these claims are based on anecdotal evidence. That means that, while many people have shared their stories for many years, there are no studies to back them up. So there may be something to these claims, but we don’t have any scientific evidence to rely on.

That said, there are reasons to believe that these testimonials have some merit:

1.      Clean feet are healthy feet. Soaking feet in water does help remove germs and other impurities from the skin, reducing the risk of infection.

2.      Warmth does improve blood flow, especially for people who are living with diabetes or other conditions that impair circulation. Soaking in warm water will help, with or without Epsom salts.

3.      Reducing magnesium deficiency can help relieve foot cramps and other discomfort. While it’s not clear that magnesium is well-absorbed through the skin, there is a possibility.

4.      A warm bath is relaxing and enjoyable. Hop in the tub! If you like adding a few scoops of Epsom salts and some essential oil in the water, go ahead and add it. It might make you feel good.

Of course, the best thing that you can do to improve foot health is to see a board-certified podiatrist like Jason Grossman, DPM regularly. Schedule a convenient appointment in Advanced Feet and Ankle Care’s modern, comfortable Old Bridge and Sayreville offices today. Call our friendly staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to get started.