As someone who's relied on natural remedies for years, I can attest that Epsom salt is a must-have household staple. Here are 21 practical reasons to keep it on hand.
Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, has been a trusted home remedy for generations, especially in places like England. It offers versatile health benefits when used both internally and externally. Its effectiveness stems from magnesium, which binds to carbonates to help flush out bodily toxins more efficiently—even on the skin.
Important: Like any natural remedy (such as ginger), use Epsom salt in moderation and consult your doctor first, particularly if you're on medication.
From soothing baths to garden hacks, these expert-tested uses make Epsom salt indispensable.
Draw a bath and add 1 cup of Epsom salt (plus 2 drops of lavender essential oil for extra calm). Soak for no more than 20 minutes to unwind fully. For kids, use just 1 tablespoon.
Fill a cup one-third with Epsom salt, top with warm water to dissolve, and soak the affected finger for 10 minutes. The splinter will slip out effortlessly.
Mix 1 cup Epsom salt, ¼ cup coconut or almond oil, 1 teaspoon liquid soap, and a few drops of essential oil. Store airtight and scrub feet as needed.
Grind Epsom salt finely, mix with your facial cleanser, gently massage, and rinse for smoother skin.
For flu-like aches, add 2 heaping cups to a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes. Relief follows quickly.
Perfect for volume or the Curly Girl method. Combine 1 cup hot water, 2 tbsp Epsom salt, ½ tsp sea or Himalayan salt, 1 tsp aloe vera gel, and ½ tsp natural conditioner. Spray as needed.
Blend Epsom salt with water, coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax using a stick blender. Store in a jar for itch-free magnesium absorption.
Unlike table salt, Epsom salt enriches soil. Mix 1 tbsp per watering can and apply a few times per season.
Mix ½ cup Epsom salt with ¼ cup olive or almond oil. Use in the shower to slough off dead skin and recharge.
Combine equal parts Epsom salt and dish detergent. Scrub, rinse thoroughly—beware of slipperiness.
No tub? Fill a basin with warm water and 1 cup Epsom salt. Soak feet for 20 minutes.
Mix equal parts Epsom salt and conditioner, apply for 20 minutes, then rinse for thicker, fuller hair.
Dissolve 1 tbsp Epsom salt in 1 cup hot water, cool, and dab on mosquito bites or rashes.
Mix 2 tbsp Epsom salt in 1 cup hot water, cool, add 4 drops lavender oil. Spray on sunburns.
Known for its laxative properties—use internally only under medical guidance, especially with health conditions or meds.
Dissolve 1 tsp Epsom salt in water and feed every two weeks for vibrant growth.
Sprinkle around plants—snails dissolve harmlessly while plants thrive (safer than table salt).
Roses adore magnesium. Apply Epsom salt for bigger blooms and stronger growth.
Regular use combats magnesium deficiency-linked headaches. Try sprays, lotions, or baths.
Use externally in limited amounts—a bath helps kids sleep soundly.
Work Epsom salt into soil before planting veggies for superior yields.
What do you use Epsom salt for?
