Epsom salt

Mediterranean region (as recorded in this entry)

Magnesium sulphate. In sufficient amounts it acts as a laxative because it holds water in the bowel. In a bath it is used to relax muscles; that magnesium is absorbed through the skin has not been shown.

Safety notes

Do not self-administer orally. Ask a clinician or pharmacist, especially with kidney or heart conditions.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Western herbalism: Do not take it yourself with kidney or heart problems.

Preparation

Dissolved in a bath or foot bath. Take as a laxative only on advice.

Use in traditions

In 1618 a farmer in Epsom, south of London, noticed that his cows would not drink the bitter water of a spring; the water turned out to be a strong laxative. Epsom became a spa, and the salt was sold as Epsom salt. In medicine magnesium sulphate is given by drip in pre-eclampsia.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Western herbalism

Attributed effects

As a laxative and in baths for muscle pain; in medicine by drip in pre-eclampsia.

Preparation and amount

Dissolved in a warm bath or foot bath. Take internally only on advice.

Caution: Do not take it yourself with kidney or heart problems.

Ways to prepare herbs: Steam and bath

Sources

www.nccih.nih.gov

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