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Epsom Salt Cleansing

Cleansing has become a popular part of alternative medicine, and doing a cleanse can help you gain energy, detoxify your body and improve your bodily functions. It is possible to conduct a cleanse at home, in a spa or under a doctor's supervision, and epsom salts are a common ingredient for a cleanse.

  1. What are Epsom Salts?

    • Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate, and it is widely recognized for its healing properties. A warm bath with epsom salts is one of the most common treatments in the U.S. for an injury, though they've also been used as an anti-arrhythmic, and even as an exfoliant. As part of a cleanse, epsom salts are an FDA-approved laxative.

    Effects of an Epsom-Salt Cleanse

    • Because epsom salts are a laxative, they will speed up your digestive process. An epsom-salt cleanse is one option if you're constipated or if you are looking to clear your colon. If you're preparing for a colonoscopy, or are looking to clear your bowels before starting a new, healthy lifestyle, an epsom-salt cleanse is a natural option.

    Why Does an Epsom-Salt Cleanse Work?

    • An epsom-salt solution is known scientifically as a "hyperosmotic." Just like other salts, epsom salts attract water, so when epsom salts are passing through your bowels, the salts pull water from other parts of your body. This makes your digestive system more lubricated, and in turn you will excrete more.

    Side Effects of an Epsom-Salt Cleanse

    • Because epsom salts draw water from your body, one of the most common side effects of an epsom-salt cleanse is dehydration. Keep this in mind during a cleanse, and drink plenty of water. Other side effects are related to your intestinal tract, and you may have cramps or gas while doing an epsom-salt cleanse.

    Recipe for an Epsom-Salt Cleanse

    • While exact recommendations for an epsom-salt cleanse vary, the basic recipe involves mixing approximately 2 tsp. of epsom salts in 1 cup of warm water. Stir the epsom salts until they dissolve, and drink. While epsom salts are FDA-approved as a laxative, keep in mind that consuming too much salt can lead to dehydration and other harmful side effects, so do not repeat this cleanse more than once per day.

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