Homemade Epsom Salt

Recipe

• In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of Epsom salt,1 to 2 tsp. of baking soda (which helps make the skin soft) and 10 to 12 drops of essential oil. Scents of lavender or eucalyptus are aroma-therapeutic. Add a small amount of food coloring paste if you want color. Mix for at least two minutes. The more you mix, the stronger the aroma of the salts will become. Add your salts to a nice warm bath and enjoy.
  
  

Uses of Epsom Salts

• Epsom salts have many health benefits. Soaking the salt in a hot bath relieves arthritis and sore feet. Epsom salt is great for the skin as a cleanser and defoliant. Because of its detoxifying powers, it also heals broken skin when rubbed on as a paste with a moisturizer.
  
  

Health Issues

• When used externally, there are no major health concerns with exposure to magnesium sulfate. Studies have shown that most people's diets are deficient in magnesium and no one has been hurt by too many spa treatments with Epsom salt.
  
  Known dangers of magnesium sulfate result if used intravenously for those who are dehydrated or have heart and kidney conditions and in conjunction with other medication. Side effects can include breathing difficulties, nausea, headaches and vision problems.