An Epsom salt bath has been a go-to remedy for generations, from grandparents to celebrities like Jessica Biel—who reportedly soaked in 20 pounds of the stuff before last year’s Met Gala. But what exactly are Epsom salts, and why are they so popular? Do they really help detoxify the body and ease stress?

### A Centuries-Old Remedy
Just outside London, near the lush Surrey Hills National Landscape, lies the medieval village of Epsom, built around mineral springs. Until the late 1600s, it was a famous health retreat—and the place where Epsom salts, a natural compound of magnesium and sulfate, were first discovered.

Traditionally, soaking in a warm bath with these salts is believed to help magnesium and sulfur absorb through the skin, relaxing muscles, detoxifying the body, and reducing stress.

### The Claimed Benefits
Epsom salt baths are most commonly praised for easing muscle soreness and reducing inflammation. For the skin, the magnesium and sulfur in warm water are said to open pores, remove dead skin cells, and boost hydration. Some also claim these baths help restore electrolyte balance, support heart and nerve function, lower blood pressure, and even improve sleep by calming the nervous system.

On social media, you might have seen claims that Epsom salts create a “detox bath,” with sulfur supposedly flushing out toxins and excess fluids.

Sounds amazing, right? But here’s the catch: While many swear by these benefits, scientific evidence is limited. Some experts argue magnesium can’t penetrate the skin deeply enough to reach muscles, while others suggest the warmth of the bath—not the salts—might be the real hero.

Still, many doctors, trainers, and physical therapists recommend Epsom salts for muscle recovery. And anyone who’s tried a soak can likely vouch for how relaxing it feels. After all, if a remedy sticks around for centuries, there’s probably something to it—whether it’s real or just a placebo effect.

That said, magnesium is undeniably important for health—but most research focuses on consuming it, not soaking in it. The FDA only approves magnesium sulfate for treating constipation (when ingested) and minor cuts or bruises (when soaked).

### Any Downsides?
While there’s little proof of major risks, people with sensitive skin, varicose veins, or conditions like eczema or psoriasis should consult a doctor before using Epsom salts, as they could cause irritation.

### How to Try It
If you’re dealing with stress, sore muscles, or just need some relaxation, there’s no harm in giving an Epsom salt bath a shot. The benefits of warm water alone are well-documented, so why not add some minerals? It’s an affordable, simple way to unwind—and if nothing else, it feels pretty great.Here’s a simple way to boost your self-care routine with Epsom salts.

If you want to try it, drink plenty of water before, during, and after your soak. For the best results, stay in the bath for at least 30 minutes—but no longer than 45. And don’t worry, you don’t need a huge amount like some celebrities use. Just two cups in a standard tub is the recommended dose by doctors and dermatologists.

Pure Epsom salts are unscented, making them great for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. You can also use them as a scrub to massage your arms and legs, helping with circulation, fluid drainage, and exfoliation. Just wait until after your soak to scrub—this keeps the crystals from dissolving too soon.

Many Epsom salt blends include extras like baking soda or essential oils for added relaxation. If you choose one of these, check the label carefully. Some mixes contain artificial dyes or strong fragrances you might want to avoid. Look for magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts) as the main ingredient and stick to all-natural options.

### Recommended Epsom Salt Products:
– Dr. Teals Pure Epsom Salt Soaking Solution – $15 (Amazon)
– Sky Organics Epsom Salt Bath Soak – $27 (Amazon)
– Primally Pure Bath Soak Packet – $14 (Primally Pure)
– Lizush CBD Natural Eucalyptus Bath Salts – $39 (Nordstrom)
– Ancient Minerals Magnesium Bath Flakes – $30 (Amazon)