How to Use Epson Salt for Infection

Magnesium sulfate, better known as Epsom salts, is a chemical compound made up of magnesium, oxygen and sulfur. Epsom salts chemical makeup is highly absorbent and draws toxins from whatever surface it encounters, including human skin, which makes it popular for use as a bath salt. Soaking in Epsom salts is also a widely used remedy to treat infections. Epsom salts work well to treat outer infections but should not be ingested. Consumption of Epsom salts can result in magnesium overdose, which can lead to death. Soaking and bathing in Epsom salts may increase magnesium levels within the body via skin, but not enough to raise risks of magnesium overdose, making Epsom salts a safe alternative to treating outer infections.

Purchase Epsom salts, which can be found in local grocery stores. These can be found in the health, beauty or the pharmacy isles. Another place to look would be a health or natural foods store. Epsom salts should be stored in cool dry places when not in use.

Make a soak. Fill a large pot with water and heat it on a stove on high heat. Take the pot off the fire just before it begins to boil and pour this in a tub or container large enough to hold two feet or hands. Test the heat of the water by dipping a toe or a finger in the water. If its too hot, wait a few minutes for it to cool. Bear in mind that hot or warm water brings toxins close to the surface of the skin, therefore for treating outer infections, the hotter the water, the better. Add a half cup of Epsom salts to the water and stir with a whisk or large spoon until the salts have fully dissolved. Soak the hands or feet in this solution for at least 20 minutes. Rinse the soaked body part thoroughly after the soak and pat dry. Apply body oil or lotion to the area, as it will probably be very dry.

Make a bath soak from Epsom salts for areas on the body's surface that may be suffering from infection but cant be soaked in a bowl. Draw a hot bath and add 2 cups of Epsom salts to the tub. Make sure to distribute the salt evenly in the tub. It may be stirred with the forearm before entering. Lay in the tub for at least 12 minutes. Rinse the body after the soak with fresh water and pat dry.