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Will Epsom Salt Relieve Gastric Reflux Symptoms?

Suffering from heartburn, gastric reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be a harrowing experience. There are a number of homeopathic and alternative cures suggested to relieve symptoms, but it can be difficult to determine the truth and efficacy of these potential cures when weighed against professional medical opinion. A common suggestion for relieving gastric reflux symptoms involves the aroma-therapeutic effects of Epsom salt as a bath or foot soak.

  1. General Benefits of Epsom Salt

    • Epsom salt has long been known to have a naturally soothing effect on the body. In fact, there are numerous homeopathic remedies associated with Epsom salt covering many organ systems and health ailments. When treating abdominal distress and gastric reflux symptoms, Epsom salt works in a twofold manner. The main activity of the salt comes from magnesium sulfate, which is absorbed into the body through the skin. Magnesium sulfate has anti-inflammatory effects on the body, and the increased levels of magnesium from the salt triggers an increase in production of the mood-regulating neurotransmitter serotonin, associated with pleasure and sleep. The salt is also widely believed to have aromatherapeutic effects, which help regulate the heartbeat and calm the central nervous system.

    Further Recommendations

    • Preparing an Epsom salt bath is very easy; you simply add 2 cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath. Soak in the bath long enough to relax and allow the salt to soak into the body.

      While a salt bath can provide a great deal of relief from gastric reflux symptoms, it is recommended that you compound this treatment with other options for the best results. Diet is extremely important in dealing with gastric reflux, so it is recommended that you limit your intake of raw foods, extremely salty foods and highly acidic foods. All of these foods can trigger flareups of GERD symptoms and make existing symptoms worse. Many common allergies can also greatly exacerbate the symptoms of gastric reflux, so it is wise to check with an allergist about options to reduce allergic reactions.

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