Epsom Salts 500g – Magnesium Sulphate for Relaxing Bath Soaks, Muscle Relief & Foot Soaks

Epsom Salts (magnesium sulphate heptahydrate) is a pure white crystalline mineral compound with a long history of therapeutic use in bath soaks for muscle relaxation, stress relief, and skin softening. When dissolved in warm water, the magnesium and sulphate ions are absorbed transdermally, supporting muscle relaxation and providing a deeply soothing bathing experience. Also used as a foot soak for tired, aching feet. 500g pharmaceutical-grade powder.

• Pure magnesium sulphate — no additives or fragrances
• Softens and exfoliates skin when used as a bath salt
• Supports muscle relaxation and stress relief in warm baths
• Ideal for foot soaks — tired and aching feet
• 500g — pharmaceutical grade

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Epsom Salts and regular table salt?

Epsom Salts (magnesium sulphate) and table salt (sodium chloride) are completely different chemical compounds. Regular salt is sodium chloride — used for flavouring food and osmotic effects. Epsom Salts are magnesium sulphate — used therapeutically for their magnesium content (muscle relaxation, nerve function) and sulphate content (detoxification pathway support). They are not interchangeable and Epsom Salts should never be consumed as a food flavouring.

How do I use Epsom Salts in a bath?

Add 1–2 cups (250–500g) to a warm (not hot) bath filled with water. Soak for 15–20 minutes. The warm water opens skin pores and the dissolved magnesium is absorbed transdermally during the soak. Pat dry gently after — the residual mineral film on the skin has a softening effect. Adding a few drops of essential oil (lavender is popular) creates a spa-like experience.

Does transdermal magnesium absorption from Epsom Salt baths actually work?

Research on transdermal magnesium absorption is debated — some studies show measurable increases in serum magnesium after Epsom Salt baths, others show minimal absorption. The therapeutic benefit may come from a combination of modest magnesium absorption, the warm water relaxing muscles, and the psychological relaxation response to a warm soak. Regardless of the absorption mechanism, Epsom Salt baths are widely used and reported as beneficial for muscle soreness and stress relief.

Can Epsom Salts be used as a foot soak?

Yes — dissolve 1/2 cup of Epsom Salts in a basin of warm water. Soak feet for 15–20 minutes. The warm salt soak softens callused skin, relieves tired and aching feet, reduces foot odour, and can help soften tough skin before filing. Gently pat dry after soaking and apply a foot cream to lock in moisture while the skin is softened.

Can Epsom Salts be taken internally?

Magnesium sulphate is used internally (under medical supervision) as a saline laxative at specific doses. However, oral use of Epsom Salts for laxative purposes carries risk of magnesium toxicity if overused — it is not recommended for self-administration as an oral laxative. For constipation, consult your pharmacist about appropriate oral laxatives. The product supplied here is intended for external use as a bath and foot soak.