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Toxicity of Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is used to cure common body ailments, such as constipation and muscle aches. However, just because documented deaths caused by ingestion of epsom salt are rare does not mean this chemical is not toxic. In fact, iust the opposite is the case. Overuse of epsom salt (also known as magensium sulfate) can result in death.

  1. Epsom Salt to Relieve Constipation

    • Epsom Salt is commonly found in enemas or laxatives. The salt works to increase water in a person's intestines, causing relief to end constipation. Each enema or dose of laxatives contains one tablespoon of this epsom salt. However, 1 tablespoon of the salt is about 35 grams of magnesium. The recommended amount of magnesium for the human body daily is only 300 to 400 milligrams. Those who use enemas or laxatives to relieve constipation on a regular basis become susceptible to addiction because the body will become dependent on these drugs to make a bowel movement.

    Epsom Salt to Cure Muscle Aches

    • According to the Global Healing Center, it is a common cure to soak in an epsom salt bath to cure ailing muscles. This is safe to a certain extent. If left in for too long, or done more than once a week, the salt will seep into the skin, causing the bloodstream to absorb an overdose of magnesium, especially in 1 percent solutions.

    Epsom Salt to Clear Acne

    • Epsom salt can be warmed and spread over breakouts as a quick fix to reduce redness. The face is a more sensitive area than the rest of the body, and unlike soaking in bath water, there is nothing to dilute the effect here, so it should not be a replacement for regular acne medications.

    Using Epsom Salt Safely

    • The solution must be pure epsom salt in order to avoid the side effects of magnesium poisoning when the salt is used for skin ailments. It will say this on the carton. However, the Global Healing Center strongly suggests we find other ways to cure constipation, such as eating flaxseed or drinking more water, because even pure epsom salt can lead to a prolonged magnesium poisoning.

    When to Avoid Epsom Salt Entirely

    • It is vital to ask your doctor before using epsom salt if you are pregnant, have a history of digestion problems, or are taking an over-the-counter vitamins or herbs. The effects of it on the body when mixed with these are yet unknown.

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