The Soak That Does More: What Science Says About Epsom Salt And Whole-Body Wellness

If you’ve ever eased into a warm epsom salt bath after a long day and thought, “Wow, I needed this,” you’re not alone. 

For generations, epsom salt has been a trusted go-to for sore muscles, tired feet, and moments when you simply need to feel better. But now, science is finally catching up with what our bodies have known all along.

A recent study called “Analysing the Therapeutic Potential of Epsom Salt across Multiple Human Physiological Systems: A Comprehensive Review,” published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (September 2024), explores the far-reaching effects of epsom salt across multiple systems in the body.

Let’s break down what this means for your next soak—and your well-being.

The Dynamic Duo: Magnesium And Sulfate

Epsom salt isn’t actually salt—it’s a naturally occurring mineral compound made of magnesium and sulfate. 

Magnesium is a star player in hundreds of biochemical reactions in your body. Think: muscle function, stress regulation, energy production, and more. 

Sulfate, while less flashy, helps with detoxification, skin hydration, and cellular repair.

When dissolved in a warm bath, these minerals are believed to be absorbed through the skin—a method known as transdermal absorption. 

While the science community still debates just how much magnesium your body can soak up this way, the review points to an important fact: people report real, measurable benefits, and that matters.

What The Science Actually Says

According to the 2024 review, epsom salt has therapeutic potential across multiple systems in the body:

• Muscular System: Helps ease cramps, reduce tension, and soothe post-exercise soreness.
• Nervous System: Supports relaxation, may ease anxiety, and could even improve sleep quality.
• Cardiovascular System: Magnesium may help regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
• Integumentary System (Skin): Sulfate supports skin hydration, detoxification, and minor wound healing.

In other words, that bath might be doing more than just relaxing your muscles—it could be supporting your overall physiological balance.

Real-World Benefits, Zero Fuss

What makes epsom salt such a win for wellness? It's simple, affordable, and low-risk. The review frames it as an accessible therapeutic option, especially for those dealing with chronic pain, muscle fatigue, skin conditions, or elevated stress levels. 

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a stressed-out parent, or just someone craving peace in a noisy world, this humble mineral might be the reset button your body craves.

Shop pure epsom salt in different-sized bags here.

How To Draw A Smarter Bath

If you’re ready to upgrade your tub time, here’s a quick protocol inspired by wellness experts:

1. Add 1 to 2 cups of epsom salt to a standard bathtub of warm water.
2. Soak for 15–20 minutes, ideally in the evening.
3. Stay hydrated and avoid cold water immediately afterward.

You can also elevate the experience with essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus) or soft music to create a spa-like atmosphere right at home. Our ready-to-use aromatherapy soaks at Better Bath Better Body, like our lavender-infused Deep Relaxation Bath Soak, make this easy.

Final Soak

The next time you sink into a warm bath and let epsom salt work its magic, know this: you’re not just indulging—you’re investing in your wellness. With growing scientific interest and centuries of anecdotal evidence behind it, epsom salt isn’t just an old-school remedy—it’s a modern self-care essential backed by biology.

So go ahead. Light the candles. Close the door. And soak it all in. Click here to shop bath soaks online and experience firsthand the relaxing benefits of epsom salt.