This article discusses the benefits of an Epsom salt soak and how to use it for the feet. Keep reading. Step 1: Collect enough warm water in a bucket so that you can immerse your feet up to your ankles. Step 2: Ensure that the water is warm but not hot. Your skin should feel comfortable in the water and not burn from the scalding heat. Step 3: Drop at least a half cup of Epsom salt in the water and mix it well. Step 4: Dip your feet in the water and let them stay there for at least 30 to 60 minutes. Step 5: Add a few drops of essential oil to the water for an amazing aromatherapy-like experience. As per a study, the magnesium in Epsom salt foot soaks may penetrate the outer protective layers of the skin (1). However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that it increases the magnesium levels in the body. The extent of permeability also depends on the salt concentration and the duration you soak your feet in Epsom salt. This offers a host of benefits for the skin and the feet, some of which are listed below.
Benefits Of Epsom Foot Soaks
1. Treat Athlete’s Foot
Epsom salt may not kill the fungus, but helps draw out moisture, ultimately making the feet less habitable for the fungus. It can also help treat foot infections and ingrown nails on the toes. If you want to treat athlete’s foot, you can try using an Epsom salt foot soak. However, ensure you discuss with your doctor.
2. Reduce Inflammation
Although there is no substantial evidence to back the claim, the magnesium content in Epsom salt may reduce inflammatory skin conditions. This is why the use of Epsom salt is recommended for gout and arthritis.
3. Exfoliate The Skin
Soaking your feet in Epsom salt helps eliminate the dead skin that accumulates under the feet. This prevents roughness and leaves your feet softer. Epsom salt can also reduce skin infections, which occur due to excessive buildup of dead, flaking skin cells.
4. Prevent Odor
Among the many uses of Epsom salt for soaking feet is its ability to remove odor. Using a foot soak will help keep your feet clean and free of germs that build up on the skin and contribute to odor.
5. Release Stress
Epsom salts to soak your feet may help improve the circulation of blood. The warm water and minerals of Epsom salt push the blood under the skin, releasing stress and helping you feel calmer.
6. Beauty Treatment
You can use Epsom salt as a beauty treatment to pamper yourself. Epsom salts help loosen the dirt sticking on the skin and remove calluses that can make your feet appear less attractive. It is one of the few things you need to give yourself an at-home pedicure session. Dip your feet in the water and experience the salt’s effects. However, it is necessary to follow some precautions while using Epsom salts.
Precautions
Avoid excessively soaking your feet in Epsom salts as it may result in dry and cracked skin. People with dry skin on their feet must not use this remedy more than twice or thrice a week. Add a layer of moisturizer after soaking your foot in Epsom salt to reduce the impact of dryness. It is best to consult a doctor if you face a recurring condition or extreme foot pain that does not go away even after a few Epsom salt treatments. People with diabetes should obtain medical consultation before using Epsom salt as it exposes them to an increased risk of infections. It is recommended to consult a specialist if you experience open sores or prolonged pain in your feet.
The next sections will answer a few questions related to the use of Epsom salt for swollen feet. Read on.
Does Epsom Salt Help Swollen Feet?
Yes. Although no scientific evidence backs this claim, Epsom salt may help reduce pain and inflammation on the feet by drawing out toxins (2). It can help you feel relaxed and reduce swelling on the feet. However, the remedy may work only when you use a trusted Epsom salt product for this purpose.
How Long Should I Soak My Feet?
You can use Epsom salts for swelling and inflammation but not for more than 30 to 60 minutes at a time. This duration is enough for the ingredient to work and show effects.
Does Epsom Salt Help With Toenail Fungus?
Yes. The effect of Epsom salt on toenail fungus depends on the severity of the infection. However, Epsom salt alone may not be sufficient to treat severe cases of toenail fungus.
Is It Ok To Soak Your Feet In Epsom Salt Every Day?
No. Using it daily may leave the skin dry and cracked. To avoid this, follow this remedy not more than 2-3 times a week.
Does Epsom Salt Help Draw Out Toxins?
Epsom salt is made of magnesium and sulfate, which are thought to stimulate detoxification pathways. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Who should not soak feet in Epsom salt? People with blisters, cuts, calluses, sores, or scabs should not soak their feet in Epsom salt as they may break open, causing further damage and pain due to the salt’s drying effect. Is Epsom salt antibacterial? Although Epsom salt has several advantages, further research is required to determine if it has antibacterial properties. Can I soak my feet in Epsom salt and vinegar? Yes, you can soak your feet in Epsom salt and vinegar. It may provide a calming effect by relieving stress and pain in your feet.
