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There are many benefits to Epsom salt. Many individuals choose to soak in a bath filled with the compound to relieve their aches and pains. Some even treat constipation and other digestive issues by using Epsom salt.
More specifically, Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate. It is a compound that contains sulfur, oxygen, and magnesium, as the scientific name implies. Epsom salt dissolves in water, releasing the beneficial chemicals.
There are a few Epsom salt substitutes if you cannot find or run out of the product. Learn more about some of the best options in the information below.
Epsom Salt Substitute Options
When looking for Epsom salt substitutes, you likely want to use a product that offers the same benefits. When considering the alternative, think about your intended use of Epsom salt. Not every substitute on the list below will have the same benefits as the others, so you must consider each’s specific properties. Always remember your health needs when thinking about any of the available alternatives.
1. Essential Oils
Essential oils are much more beloved in modern times than ever before. Some individuals place a few drops of these products in their foot baths, hoping to relieve aches and pains. Many also use Epsom salt to ease muscle soreness and tightness.
Tangerine and peppermint oils specifically work to relieve achy and tired feet muscles. The two components in the mixture will bring you the muscle relief you desire.
Do note that essential oils will not exfoliate your feet. Epsom salt will naturally remove dead skin cells to keep your skin smooth.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Though the smell can be overwhelming, apple cider vinegar works as an alternative to Epsom salt. Some individuals use the latter on their scalps to get rid of excessive buildup in their hair. Epsom salt has natural cleansing properties that remove the residue from shampoos and conditioners.
When using Epsom salt, you will mix it with water and lime juice. When considering using apple cider vinegar, you will only need to dilute it with water. Rinse your hair with the mixture after shampooing it to rid your scalp of any buildup.
3. Oatmeal
As mentioned, Epsom salt has exfoliating properties, it will naturally exfoliate your skin and remove the dead cells. If you want the same benefits with a substitute, consider using oatmeal. You will have to craft the alternative into a paste to have it exfoliate your skin the way you desire.
Mix a couple of tablespoons of oatmeal in warm water. Add more oats if the mixture is too watery, and put in more water if it is too thick. Scrub the paste on your skin, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe it off with a cloth to exfoliate.
4. Baking Soda
Baking soda is technically another chemical mixture, scientifically called sodium bicarbonate. It is practical as an Epson substitute, able to ease sore muscles. You can also place baking soda directly on your skin to quicken the healing process for sunburns and rashes.
The best way to use baking soda as a substitute for Epsom salt is to put it in the bathtub and soak in it. Add a couple of tablespoons of the mixture to the tub to start receiving its benefits. Many of your pains will begin to dissolve over time, and you will feel relaxed.
5. Prune Juice
As mentioned, some individuals choose to use Epsom for their digestive concerns. They dilute the compound in water, swallowing the mixture to ease the symptoms of constipation. If you do not have Epsom salt, you can use prune juice instead.
Prune juice is a natural way to help you use the bathroom when constipated. Make sure to purchase the natural variant, as any added sugars can lead to more digestive problems. If you do not have prune juice, you can also buy the fruits themselves, eating a few as a snack.
6. Mustard Powder
Mustard powder is one of the many spices in the kitchen and is commonly used in several recipes. It has natural detoxifying qualities, helping remove many toxins from your skin and body. It will also help relax you in the ways that Epsom salt does.
You will use the same amount when considering mustard powder instead of Epsom salt. Pour it directly into your bathtub or foot soaker, and it will start to dissolve in a few minutes. Soak in the mixture to rid your skin of any impurities. Your muscle soreness will also begin to leave over time due to the relaxing qualities present in the powder.
7. Rock Salt
Rock salt is a compound used in pools. It helps to keep the water safe to swim in, dissolving toxins and bacteria from it. It is safe for humans to be around too, so you can put it in your bathtub as a substitute for Epsom salt.
You will put as much rock salt as you would Epsom salt in your bathtub. Relax in the bath water for as long as needed to relieve your aches and pains. You can also place the compound in your foot soak tub.
8. Can I Use Table Salt Instead of Epsom Salt?
Some families use iodized salt, while others use sea salts for their meals and cooking needs. You can use either of these ingredients as a substitute for Epsom salt. If using the iodized variant, it is best to mix it with essential oils or baking soda.
The microscopic grains of the salts help exfoliate your skin, removing the dead cells to bring back a sense of smoothness. Many individuals claim that table salt can even get rid of tough and scaly skin patches, often associated with psoriasis. It will also make your skin look younger as it adds moisture and hydration back to it.
Find an Alternative for Epsom Salt that Works for You
There are numerious health benefits to using Epsom salt. You can soak in it to exfoliate your dry skin or ease sore muscles. Epsom salt can also help relieve digestive issues, including constipation.
Sometimes, Epsom salt can be hard to find, or you may not want to go to the store. If you are in this circumstance, there are several substitutes to consider.
If you want to exfoliate your skin, consider table salt or mustard powder. To help relieve constipation drink prune juice or eat the fruits themselves. You can also use apple cider vinegar for its cleansing properties. Each alternative option has its specific benefits.
