Epsom Salt: Benefits, Risks, and How To Use It Safely

Jun 08, 2025

Laura Schober is a writer and editor specializing in health, food, wellness, beauty, and lifestyle content. Laura is also a seasoned communications professional who has previously worked in the biopharmaceutical, consumer healthcare, and lifestyle spaces.

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Magnesium sulfate, commonly referred to as Epsom salt, is the magnesium salt of sulfuric acid. It has historically been used as a remedy for abdominal pain, muscle strains, and constipation.

Epsom salts are small, colorless crystals that are a popular addition to warm baths. These chemical compounds may help relieve muscle soreness and soothe irritated skin.

Epsom salt may have several benefits, including skin and digestive support, blood sugar control, and pain relief.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Epsom salt for soaking minor cuts and bruises. One study found that 5% Dead Sea salts, which are also rich in magnesium, strengthened the skin barrier and reduced roughness and inflammation in people with dry skin.

More studies are necessary to back up these findings. There does not seem to be harm in taking a magnesium-rich Epsom salt bath if you enjoy it.

Epsom salts may improve hand and body psoriasis symptoms. Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes scaly, inflamed patches of skin.

More research is needed to determine the exact way Epsom salt improves psoriasis symptoms. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath for a maximum of 15 minutes may remove skin scales and soften the skin. Avoid bathing for longer than 15 minutes, as soaking for too long may further irritate your skin.

Normal blood serum levels of magnesium are 0.7-1.0 millimoles per liter. Epsom salt can increase low serum concentrations. You may take magnesium orally or receive an injection.

Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in at least 300 biochemical reactions in your body. It helps with many essential functions, such as:

The magnesium in Epsom salt can act as a natural pain reliever. When calcium enters your cells, it contributes to sensory functions like pain.

Magnesium blocks calcium intake into your cells to lower pain hypersensitivity. Additional studies are needed to determine how Epsom salts can improve quality of life.

Epsom salt is generally safe to use orally or topically at the appropriate dosage. There are fewer potential side effects when you use it on your skin or in a bath.

Risks of oral Epsom salt include nausea, headache, stomach pain or cramps, bloating, and diarrhea. More severe side effects include:

Contact a healthcare provider right away or go to your nearest emergency room if you have any of these side effects after using Epsom salt.

Taking a warm Epsom salt bath can be a relaxing way to unwind. It may reduce edema (swelling), reduce inflammation, soothe dry, irritated skin, and relax sore muscles. Epsom salt baths are also enjoyable as a foot soak or compress.

Here's how to take an Epsom salt bath or foot soak:

Epsom salt is used in many medications and supplements for various purposes, such as:

When buying a supplement, make sure the product is independently tested. Unlike medications, supplements are not regulated by the FDA. This means their quality and safety can vary. Independent testing confirms that the supplement contains the ingredients listed on the label and is free from harmful contaminants. Check for seals from reputable organizations such as NSF International, USP (United States Pharmacopeia), or ConsumerLab.

Epsom salt is used for medical and health purposes, from pain relief to skin conditions and low magnesium levels. You can take a warm Epsom salt bath to relax and relieve sore muscles.

The FDA recognizes Epsom salt as generally safe for use. Side effects like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or irregular heartbeat can occur.

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