ARE YOU SOAKING IN IT YET? Health Benefits of Magnesium Baths…
Known scientifically as hydrated magnesium sulfate, Epsom salt is rich in both magnesium and sulfate. While both magnesium and sulfate can be poorly absorbed through the stomach, studies show increased magnesium levels from soaking in a bath enriched with Epsom salt! Sulfates play an important role in the formation of brain tissue, joint proteins and the proteins that line the walls of the digestive tract. They stimulate the pancreas to generate digestive enzymes and are thought to help detoxify the body of medicines and environmental contaminants.
RESEARCHERS AND PHYSICIANS SUGGEST THESE HEALTH BENEFITS FROM PROPER MAGNESIUM AND SULFATE LEVELS, AS LISTED ON THE WEB SITE OF THE EPSOM SALT INDUSTRY COUNCIL:
Improved heart and circulatory health, reducing irregular heartbeats, preventing hardening of the arteries, reducing blood clots and lowering blood pressure.
Improved ability for the body to use insulin, reducing the incidence or severity of diabetes.
Flushed toxins and heavy metals from the cells, easing muscle pain and helping the body to eliminate harmful substances.
Improved nerve function by electrolyte regulation. Also, calcium is the main conductor for electrical current in the body, and magnesium is necessary to maintain proper calcium levels in the blood.
Relieved stress. Excess adrenaline and stress are believed to drain magnesium, a natural stress reliever, from the body. Magnesium is necessary for the body to bind adequate amounts of serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of well-being and relaxation.
Reduced inflammation to relieve pain and muscle cramps. [A bath in Epsom Salt before bed might help alleviate that restless leg/cramping that happens at bedtime.]
Improved oxygen use.
Improved absorption of nutrients.
Improved formation of joint proteins, brain tissue and mucin proteins.
Prevention or easing of migraine headaches.
ALL THIS FROM A BATH!
While there are many different brands of Epsom salt, they are all the same product chemically, and can be found at most drug stores. My favorite recipe is two cups of Epsom salt, 1/2 cup of baking soda and 10 drops of lavender oil. Soak for 10 - 20 minutes. Ahhh...you'll sleep like a baby!
Source: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/health-benefits-of-epsom-salt-baths.html?&page=2
