The Epsom salt vs table salt debate has been raging for some time now, with many people asking the essential question of whether you can use table salt instead of Epsom salt. There are numerous similarities between the two salts; after all, they’re both forms of magnesium sulfate. However, there are key differences between them that means one is better suited to certain applications than the other. Let’s take a closer look and see why you cannot use table salt instead of Epsom salt.
Can You Use Table Salt Instead of Epsom Salt?
Yes, you can use table salt instead of Epsom salt. They are both very different products, however, they have similar hydrating and detoxifying properties. Table salt has a much lower magnesium content than Epsom salt, but it can be used in the same way to help balance and detoxify the body.
Why Can You Use Table Salt Instead of Epsom Salt?
- Epsom salt is a mineral salt with a high magnesium content. It is used in baths, as it has been proven to be more effective than plain water at improving circulation and boosting the immune system. The magnesium ions found in Epsom salt are absorbed by the body and have been known to help prevent osteoporosis, arthritis, and ease cramps and pain.
- Table salt has a significantly lower concentration of magnesium compared to Epsom salt (about 50% less). While it is still considered to be a mineral salt, it lacks the health benefits found in Epsom salts. However, table salt can still be used for the same purposes as epsom salts: detoxification and improving circulation and immunity.
- Table salt is also a good source of sodium and chloride, which are necessary for proper functioning of the body.
- The table salt that is commonly used in the United States has been treated with anti-caking agents to prevent clumping and fine powder, which makes it easier to dissolve in water. This treatment has resulted in a lower concentration of minerals and trace elements in table salt, but it should not be used as an alternative to Epsom salts (or any other form of magnesium sulfate).
- Table salt is not recommended for use in the bath, as it can damage the skin and cause irritation.
- Epsom salt is a mineral salt, while table salt is an ionic compound made up of sodium, chloride, and magnesium ions. This means that table salt can be used in place of Epsom salts in mineral bath salts or as a deodorant scrub. However, it should not be used as a substitute for Epsom salts in baths or any other form of magnesium sulfate therapy.
- Table salt has been treated with anti-caking agents to prevent clumping and fine powder, which makes it easier to dissolve in water. This treatment has resulted in a lower concentration of minerals and trace elements in table salt, but it should not be used as an alternative to Epsom salts (or any other form of magnesium sulfate).
- Table salt is not recommended for use in the bath, as it can damage the skin and cause irritation.
- Epsom salts are a mineral salt with a high magnesium content. It is used in baths, as it has been proven to be more effective than plain water at improving circulation and boosting the immune system. The magnesium ions found in Epsom salt are absorbed by the body and have been known to help prevent osteoporosis, arthritis, and ease cramps and pain.
- Table salt has a significantly lower concentration of magnesium compared to Epsom salt (about 50% less). While it is still considered to be a mineral salt, it lacks the health benefits found in Epsom salts. However, table salt can still be used for the same purposes as epsom salts: detoxification and improving circulation and immunity.
How To Use Epsom Salt For Foot Soaking
Measure out your epsom salt.
When using epsom salt in a foot soak, it is important to measure the salt out correctly. An epsom salt foot soak is typically done in a warm water bath with one cup of epsom salt per one gallon of water. Epsom salt is absorbed by the skin more easily when it is dissolved in water. If you are using a large container to soak your feet in, it is best to use a scale to measure out the salt. Alternatively, you can fill your container with water, and then add the salt to the water. Epsom salt is a natural source of magnesium and sulfates, which are minerals that are beneficial to the skin.
Add the epsom salt to warm water.
Once you have measured out the epsom salt, add it to the warm water. The water should be warm enough to be comfortable to the touch but not hot enough to burn your skin. When adding the epsom salt to the water, stir the water gently. Doing so will help minimize the amount of foaming that occurs when the salt mixes with the water. If you notice bubbles in the water, gently stir the water again until the bubbles dissipate.
Soak your feet for 20-30 minutes.
The amount of time that you soak your feet in the epsom salt foot soak will depend on your preference. Some people prefer a short foot soak of about 10-20 minutes while others prefer a foot soak that lasts 30 minutes. If you have sensitive skin, it is best to soak your feet for a shorter duration. If you have thick, cracked skin on your feet or if you have recently applied a lot of pressure to your feet, a longer foot soak may be better for you.
Rinse off with cold water.
After soaking your feet in the epsom salt foot soak, rinse off your feet with cold water. This will help reduce the amount of swelling that may occur in your feet after soaking them in the salt water bath. After rinsing your feet with cold water, pat them dry with a clean towel.
Dry your feet and legs carefully.
After you have rinsed your feet, dry your feet and legs carefully with a clean towel. Doing so will help prevent your skin from becoming dry or cracked. After drying your feet, apply a moisturizing foot cream or lotion to help keep your skin hydrated.
Exfoliate with a foot file.
To help remove dead skin cells on your feet, you can also use a foot file. A foot file is a device that is used to exfoliate the soles of your feet and between your toes. Exfoliating your feet with a foot file will help keep your skin smooth and hydrated. If you have thick, cracked skin on your feet, you can also try gently scrubbing your feet with a pumice stone. Be sure to avoid applying too much pressure, as this may cause cuts in your skin.
Mask your feet with an exfoliating mask.
Another way to exfoliate your feet is by applying a foot mask. Foot masks are designed to be applied to, and between, the toes. A foot mask typically contains natural ingredients such as clay, tea extract, sour cherry, or algae extract. A foot mask can help remove dirt and excess oils from your feet while also leaving them smooth. There are many foot masks that are available for purchase. You can also make your own foot mask by mixing 1 cup of oatmeal with 1 cup of plain yogurt.
Massage your feet with oil.
Applying a warm massage oil to your feet can help relieve tension in your muscles. There are many different massage oils that are available for purchase. If you prefer to make your own massage oil, you can mix a small amount of epsom salt with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or almond oil. Alternatively, you can mix epsom salt with an essential oil such as lavender oil.
Stretch your legs and arms with a towel stretch.
While still in your bath, you can also stretch your legs and arms with a towel stretch. Towel stretches are a yoga-based stretching technique that can help increase flexibility in your joints and muscles. To perform a towel stretch, wet a towel, and then roll it up. Place the rolled-up towel under the sole of your foot, and then gently pull the towel towards you. Next, roll the towel up again, and place it behind the other foot. Repeat this process for both feet, followed by both legs and both arms.
Conclusion
As we have seen, the epsom salt vs table salt debate is one that is worth having. These two salts have many similarities, but they also have key differences that make them suitable for different applications. We’ve explored the differences between the two salts and we’ve also seen what epsom salt is useful for. We’ve also explored the differences between epsom salt and dead sea salt and have seen which one is better for specific applications.
