Epsom Salt Bath
Epsom salt bath is a common remedy for various skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. It is also used to relieve sunburn, redness, bruises, sprains, arthritis and swelling, muscle soreness, and swollen feet. No large-scale studies confirm the benefits of Epsom salt bath on resolving cellulitis, but many sufferers attest to its soothing effect.
To prepare an Epsom salt bath, a cup of salt is added to the bathwater, where the affected skin is soaked for 15 to 20 minutes. Warm bathwater is preferable, but the treatment works even with water at summer room temperature. It is advisable to do this on alternate days. Too much exposure to Epsom salt can irritate the skin and may only aggravate the condition.
It is important to watch out for the skin’s reaction to the Epsom salt bath. Discontinue the routine if redness, rashes, and other unwanted effects come up.
The key ingredient that makes this salt bath work is magnesium. A study published in the Journal of Immunology in June 2012 shows the inflammation-reducing effect of magnesium as it decreases the production of cytokines.
