How to Soak Feet in Epsom Salt

The use of Epsom salts, or mineral magnesium sulfate, has been documented as from the Elizabethan period in England, but the substance may have had use as a therapeutic aid for far longer. The name comes from a region in England known for its mineral-rich natural springs. These springs were frequented by those seeking relief from various ailments, often with great success. Today, Epsom salts have retained their popularity for being an effective relief from muscle aches, sprains, and other discomforts. Relieving sore and fatigued feet is one of the more common ways Epsom salts are used in the modern era.

Things You'll Need

• Large, wide basin
• Teapot or saucepan
• Fresh lavender flowers
• Fresh mint leaves
• Epsom salts
• Chair
• Towels
• Moisturizing cream
• Cotton socks

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Instructions

• 1

  Fill a large, wide basin with enough hot water to submerge both feet completely. The water should be as hot as you can comfortably tolerate. Boil four or five additional cups of water in a separate saucepan or teapot.

• 2

  Gather about a quarter-cup of fresh lavender flowers and crush, or bruise them slightly between your fingers to help release their fragrance. Add the flowers to the hot water. Place the container of extra hot water next to the soaking basin.

• 3

  Take a quarter-cup of fresh peppermint leaves and crush them a bit between your fingers as you did with the lavender. Add them also to the hot water in the basin. The herbs should release their fragrance immediately if the water is warm enough.

• 4

  Pour a half-cup of Epsom salts into the water. Stir or agitate the water with your hand for a minute or two to help to dissolve the salts.

• 5

  Place your feet into the basin while you sit on a chair comfortably. Allow your feet to soak for up to half an hour. Add hot water periodically to maintain the temperature of the foot bath. When you are ready to take your feet from the basin, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, and apply a rich moisturizing cream. Put on thick, cotton socks to keep the lotion on your skin.