What Are Epsom Salts?

Epsom salts, occasionally mispronounced as Epson salts, are also known as the mineral magnesium sulfate. Originally discovered in the late 1500s near Epsom, England, Epsom salts have many cosmetic, medical and gardening uses. The first means of processing the compound was to boil down spring water until only the salt mixture was left; now, the process involves modern chemistry to produce enough product to satisfy global demand.

Method of Relaxation

• One of the most common uses for Epsom salts is a good, old-fashioned soak for the feet or other achy parts of the body. The two chemical parts of Epsom salts, magnesium and sulfur, can be absorbed through the skin. These factors allow stress relief and improved circulation through raised levels of magnesium in the body.

Cosmetic Aid

• Epsom salts are also used as a cosmetic exfoliant. A small amount gently rubbed on damp skin scrubs away dead cells with no residue, and leaves the skin soft and supple. The exfoliation and softening effects also make Epsom salts a low-cost facial cleanser if you add a dollop to a binding agent such as a creamy, gentle skin cleanser. After delicately working it into your skin, rinse well for a glowing complexion.

Health Aid

• Epsom salts have enjoyed a long-standing reputation as a home remedy for many minor health problems, such as insect bites, bruises and sprains, or swollen ankles. For this application, mix 2 cups for every gallon of water and soak the affected area for 10 to 30 minutes.

Epsom Salts and Autism

• Epsom salts have also helped patients cope with more serious health issues like autism. The ability of magnesium and sulfates in a bath to calm the nerves can sooth an autistic child; it also adds sulfates to the patient's system. A study by Alberti, Pirrone, Elia, Waring and Romano conducted at the Oasi Institute for Research on Mental Retardation and Brain Aging and published in the August 1999 issue of "Biological Psychiatry" concluded that the lack of sulfates makes an autistic child's system less able to rid itself of toxins, making autism symptoms worse.

Garden Aid

• Whether you have one tiny houseplant or a massive front lawn, Epsom salts can stimulate plant growth, make rosebushes and tomato plants more prolific, and boost tree health. Magnesium sulfate has the same effect on plants as it does humans: it boosts the internal circulation. It can also enrich the soil before you plant a garden. Just plow in 1 cup of Epsom salts for every 100 feet of land as you till the dirt before setting out seeds.