If you should happen to find your feet swelling abnormally, you may be suffering from peripheral edema, or the abnormal build-up of fluid in the feet, ankles or legs. Such swelling is common and might occur as a result of air travel, weight gain, prolonged standing, a diet high in salt or pregnancy. However, swollen feet may be easily remedied.
Magnesium Sulfate
The best course of action is simply to elevate the feet and let the fluid drain from them. If this fails, yet another common course of action is to soak the feet in magnesium sulfate, a naturally occurring mineral otherwise known as epsom salts. According to the Epsom Salt Industry Council, epsom salts draw the moisture out of lesions caused by rashes, such as poison ivy, and can also reduce swelling, drawing excess fluid out of the feet. The ESIC recommends adding a cup of epsom salts to a tub of warm water to soothe aching feet.
Ocean Water
If you do not have access to magnesium sulfate, ocean water can help serve the same capacity for reduction of swelling. Magnesium sulfate is present in ocean water as the substance that contributes to the absorption of sound by seawater. A soak in ocean water for the same duration as an epsom salt bath should provide similar soothing results. However, avoid drinking the water as it is dehydrating and due to the high salt content will only make swelling worse.
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