Question:
Is all Epsom Salt the same?
Answer:
While there are various ways of manufacturing and packaging Epsom Salt, chemically all Epsom Salt is the same. The Epsom salt you buy in a container at one grocery store or pharmacy is the same as what you would find at another grocery store or pharmacy.

Question:
Why is Epsom Salt called Epsom Salt?
Answer:
One of the earliest discoveries of magnesium sulfate, the scientific name of Epsom Salt, occurred back in Shakespeare's day in Epsom, England, which explains the first half of the name. The term "salt" probably refers to the specific chemical structure of the compound, although many people mistakenly assume it refers to the crystalline structure of Epsom Salt, which has an appearance similar to that of table salt. (Table salt, of course, consists of sodium chloride, so it's an entirely different substance than magnesium sulfate.)

Question:
Does Epsom Salt dry your skin and leave a residue the way sea salt does?
Answer:
No. In fact, Epsom Salt is widely reported to soften skin, and it rinses away completely. While we don't yet understand precisely why Epsom Salt has a softening effect, the results have been widely reported for hundreds of years.

Question:
Where can I buy Epsom Salt?
Answer:
Most drug stores sell it in convenient, consumer-sized packages. Look for it where you find aspirin, Tylenol or Ace bandages (because it's used as a treatment for muscle aches) or in the laxative section (magnesium sulfate is an effective, naturally occurring laxative).

Question:
Can I purchase Epsom Salt in bulk/wholesale?
Answer:
For commercial or industrial uses, contact one of the members of the Epsom Salt Industry Council, listed here. For amounts smaller than a truckload or skid, contact your local retailer to see if you can negotiate a discount price.

Question:
Is Epsom Salt safe to ingest?
Answer:
Epsom Salt is an FDA-approved laxative. Consult the package for directions. It's always a good idea to consult your doctor before ingesting any over-the-counter medication, however.

Question:
I have a medical condition. Is Epsom Salt safe to use?
Answer:
Please consult with your doctor first, just to be safe.

Question:
How is it possible to get any benefit from Epsom Salt just from soaking in it?
Answer:
Magnesium and sulfates can be ingested from foods or mineral supplements, but both substances are readily absorbed through the skin. The benefits of magnesium and sulfates are explained under the benefits section of this site.

Question:
I've heard that Epsom Salt is often used by parents whose children have been diagnosed with autism. Can you explain?
Answer:
Many doctors believe that autism is accompanied by bowel disorders that make it difficult to absorb nutrients and to purge the body of wastes. Sulfates, one of the major components of Epsom Salt, have been shown effective in improving nutrient absorption and toxin elimination. Magnesium, the other major component of Epsom Salt, has a demonstrated calming effect and plays a role in the activity of more than 325 enzymes. Because both magnesium and sulfates can be absorbed through the skin, many parents report that giving their child a warm bath with 1-2 cups of dissolved Epsom Salt just before bedtime helps extend the child's sleep cycle and ease digestive function.

Question:
Where can I buy Epsom Salt in bulk?
Answer:
Epsom Salt can be purchased at your local drugstore or home improvement center in 1-lb to 6-lb bags. Please contact either your drugstore or home improvement center to inquire about ordering larger quantities.

Question:
Is it safe to put Epsom Salt in my hot tub?
Answer:
Please consult with your local spa dealer to determine whether it is safe to add Epsom Salt to your hot tub or whirlpool.

Question:
Is it safe for pregnant women to use Epsom Salt?
Answer:
If you have any questions of a medical nature, please consult with your physician.