Epsom Salt & Chelation

A long, hot soak in the tub may relieve you of not only some of your stress, but also some of your toxins. Adding Epsom salts to your bath water can increase its healing and detoxifying effects, because Epsom salts act as a natural and mild form of chelation.

The Function of Chelation

Chelation is the process in which an organic chemical is introduced into the bloodstream that bonds with heavy metals such as lead or mercury in order to "carry" or "flush" them out of the body. Most chelation therapy usually involves a physician. However, Epsom salts can act as a natural form of chelation when added to your bath at home.

The Significance of Epsom Salts

Epsom salts are a mineral compound containing magnesium and sulfate. Magnesium plays a key role in the process of many bodily functions, including the elimination of harmful toxins from the body. However, magnesium and sulfate are two common minerals many of us may be deficient in. The National Academy of Sciences reports that men and women only get about 70 to 80 percent of the recommended amount of magnesium in their diet needed for good health. Luckily, these minerals are both readily absorbed by the body through your skin in an Epsom salts bath.

Benefits

Raising magnesium levels in the body has shown to help flush toxins and heavy metals from your cells thereby aiding your body in the detoxification process. The sulfates in Epsom salts are also thought to help detoxify the body of environmental contaminants and help eliminate medicine residue.

Buying Epsom Salt

Epsom salt can be purchased at drugstores and at most natural foods stores or co-ops. There is little variation between brands.

Making a Detox Bath

For a standard-size tub, add 2 cups of Epsom salts to your bath water. The water should be hot, but if you have a health condition that makes you sensitive to hot water baths, adjust the temperature as needed. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. You will begin to sweat. After your bath, rinse off in a cool shower. This removes any toxins and salts left on your skin.