Soaking the skin in epsom salt solution is an age-old remedy for preventing various infections. Such soaking is also said to heal wounds, cuts and bruises, thereby curing infections. It is also believed that certain types of bacterial and fungal infection of the skin can be treated with application of epsom salts. Infection of teeth is another condition, wherein this salt is used. Gargling with water mixed with epsom salts may reduce the pain and swelling associated with tooth infections. Even the pain and swelling caused by ingrown toenails can be alleviated with it, but, infection may not be cured. Athlete's foot and tinea versicolor are two other skin conditions that are said to be curable with epsom salts. Yeast infections are also believed to be treated with it, but in this case too, there is no evidence to prove the same. Some people use it for treating nail fungus.
First of all, buy a bottle of epsom salts from the nearby health store or grocery shop.
If you want to soak your palm or feet, then a pan full of warm water will do. For other body parts, it is better to use a bathtub for soaking. In such case, you will need a bathtub full of warm water.
Once you are ready with the warm water, the next step is to mix the salt. For a pot full of water, half a cup of epsom salts will be sufficient. For water filled in a bathtub, you have to add around two cups.
Once the salt dissolves, soak the affected body parts for at least 15 to 20 minutes. After that, you have to rinse the area. It is always advisable to apply some lotion, as the skin will get dry after soaking in epsom salt solution. For best results, repeat the process three times a day.
To summarize, epsom salts has long been used as a home remedy for various ailments.