Epsom salt is a mineral compound, not actual salt as the name implies. It is made up of magnesium and sulfate and has many uses. Epsom salts can be added to baths or used to make compresses to treat localized areas instead of the entire body. Individuals with chickenpox may benefit from Epsom salts to relieve itching and promote relaxation. Check with your doctor or your children's pediatrician before using Epsom salts for chickenpox.
Benefits
Soaking in a warm bath with Epsom salt may help relieve the intense itching that is so frequently associated with chickenpox. The minerals in the salts may help soothe painful and itching chickenpox. Epsom salts are also known for their ability to soothe inflamed skin, which can occur with chickenpox, especially if you have been scratching them. Epsom salts may also help you relax, a great benefit when you're plagued with chickenpox and generally don't feel well.
Directions for Use
To make an Epsom salt bath, pour 2 cups of Epsom salt in a full bathtub of warm water and mix with your hand until the salts are dissolved completely. Soak in the solution for 12 to 15 minutes, or as long as you would like. Once you get out of the tub, dry your entire body gently with a clean towel, patting the chicken pox sores carefully to avoid damaging the skin. You can soak in Epsom salt baths daily until the chickenpox have resolved.
Compresses
If you have a particular area of chickenpox blisters that are more troublesome than another area, you can try a compress made from Epsom salt. To make the compress, mix 2 cups of Epsom salt with 1 gallon of warm water. Saturate a cloth in this solution and apply to the affected area until the cloth cools and then repeat as needed for relief. Epsom salt compresses and baths are also useful for individuals with shingles, a virus caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox.
Considerations
Some individuals may be at increased risk of complications developing from chickenpox. If you suspect that you or your children have chickenpox, contact your doctor for treatment advice. Avoid scratching the rash, as you can break the skin and increase the risk of infection and scarring.
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