Drinking Epsom Salt – Benefits and Side Effects

Epsom salt, also referred to as magnesium sulfate is acknowledged as a pure mineral compound. It can be compared to the hydrous magnesium sulfate, known as epsomite, which has the capability to absorb water from the air and turning it into hexahydrate. As a result of the conversion, the water molecule is transformed into a monoclinic structure. Epsom salt is linked to many benefits, which we’ll cover in detail as we go.

• Laxative effect

Epsom salt is known to present the properties of a laxative. Everyday health actually recommends magnesium sulfate as an oral laxative, which treats the commonly met constipation. Apart from that, ingesting Epsom salt also alleviates low magnesium levels in the body or hypomagnesemia.

According to the publication, this condition is typically determined by malnutrition, alcoholism, diarrhea, hyperglycemia, or unusually high levels of calcium in the body. On the other hand, when the levels of magnesium are exceptionally high, the following symptoms emerge: nystagmus, convulsions, cramps, muscle spasms, and erratic eye movement.

• Detoxifying properties

It is also known that Epsom salts are highly recommended for their detoxifying properties. Med Health clearly communicates that these salts assist the liver in releasing the harmful toxins from the body, such as free radicals that lead to cancer. The detoxification lasts for two days. The first day enlists of the actual detoxification process, while the second day provides the body with rest. It is implied that, during this process, the intake of any medicine should be stopped.

Other benefits

The list of advantages related to Epsom salts doesn’t end here. There are many other benefits such as reducing muscle pain, promoting a healthy sleeping routine, and encouraging a general state of wellness. Epsom Salt Council also indicates that Epsom salts may aid athletes to train even during the summer when it is rather challenging. If you wish to promote relaxation, add two cups of Epsom salts to your bath tub, and allow it to soak for at least 12 minutes.

Side effects

Whenever there’s good, there’s also bad; hence, the intake of Epsom salts is linked to a range of side effects as well, such as sweating, diarrhea, muscle weakness, severe drowsiness, dizziness, flushing, irregular heartbeat, and faintness. In the meantime, you should also pay attention to the following signs that may indicate an allergic reaction: rashes, difficulty with breathing, swelling of the tongue, lips, face and mouth, hives, itching, and so on.

Precaution

Although there are many health benefits linked to Epsom salts, your health condition should be of primary importance. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to communicate openly with your health provider, in the case in which you have a record of suffering from heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, stomach pain, intestinal disorder, severe constipation, colitis, bowel obstruction or perforated bowel or other eating disorders.

Taking everything into account, Epsom salts are known to have a variety of uses. Nonetheless, before considering administering them, it’s vital to consult with your doctor and establish if they are safe.