Epsom salts are crystals of hydrated magnesium sulphate. According to the Epsom Salt Council, epsom salt soaks can raise magnesium levels and improve blood circulation and skin integrity. Adequate circulation and oxygen saturation are necessary for wound healing. "Wound cleansing removes dressing residue, microbes, and cellular debris," according to the American Pediatric Surgical Nurses Association. Epsom salt soaks may be a natural alternative treatment for wound healing.
Step 1
Fill a clean or sterile bucket with one gallon of warm water. The water should be very warm but not hot enough to burn you.
Step 2
Add 1/2 cup of epsom salts to the water and stir until the epsom salts have fully dissolved.
Step 3
Submerge the wound in the saltwater until the wound is fully covered. Allow the wound to soak for 20 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the wound from the bucket and gently pat the wound dry with a sterile gauze.
Step 5
Soak the wound twice daily.
Tips and Warnings
- Certain medical conditions such as diabetes or spinal cord injuries can cause a person to not feel temperature appropriately. Always check the water temperature with your hand or elbow before submerging your limb in the water to avoid a burn.
- Ask your doctor if epsom salt soaks are appropriate for your wound. Do not use epsom salt soaks on an actively infected wound or a wound with nonviable tissue.
Things You'll Need
- Clean or sterile bucket
- Warm water
- Epsom salts
- Stirring spoon
- Clean or sterile gauze
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