Epsom Salt Alternatives (11 Salts With Some FAQs)

Last Updated on August 1, 2023 By Emma W. Thomas

Common alternatives to Epsom salt include sea salt, baking soda, and magnesium chloride flakes. These options can be used for relaxation, soothing sore muscles, and various household applications, offering similar benefits as Epsom salt.

11 Epsom Salt Alternatives

1) Apple Cider Vinegar: This is one of the most popular Epsom salt alternatives available. It can be used as an alternative in recipes that call for Epsom salts and it has many other benefits as well! Apple cider vinegar is great for your gut and is a good source of vitamin C.

You can add the following two along with Apple Cider Vinegar as the alternatives: 

– Coconut sugar: This sweetener has an appropriate tanginess with hints of caramelized sugars mixed with citrus notes, so this could be another possible substitute if vinegar isn’t suitable for your recipe.

– Organic cane sugar: Sugar can also be used as an Epsom salt alternative in recipes that call for it. For example, you can use organic cane sugar instead of white granulated sugar to make the chocolate sauce! Raw or brown organic cane sugars are typically recommended over refined options because they contain many vitamins and minerals which contribute to our health.*Organic honey: Honey may not have the same properties as Epsom salt but it certainly does its job well enough

2) Cayenne Pepper: This spice is commonly mixed with water or oil before being applied topically on sore muscles and joints. The Cayenne peppers also have some really great health benefits such as helping digestion, boosting immunity, and more! Cayenne pepper is a great substitute for Epsom salt in homemade topical rubs and beauty recipes.

3) Sea Salt: Not only does sea salt have a great taste, but it’s also high in minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Sea salt is actually what the name Epsom Salt comes from because it was originally found near an English town called Epsom which has two famous springs full of sea salt!

4) Himalayan Pink Salt: Himalayan pink salt is also known as “Indian” or “Pakistani” salt which can be found in many grocery stores. This type of salt has a lot of health benefits such as detoxifying the body, supporting skin and eye health, and more! This kind of salt has a great taste and also leaves the skin feeling soft.

5) Dead Sea Salt: Dead sea salt is full of amazing essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and more. This type of salt is great for detoxifying the body, improving skin health, and has a lot of other benefits! It is made from some of the saltiest water in the world and is perfect for people who want to detox. This type of salt also has a really great taste which leaves you wanting more!

6) Rock Salts: Rock Salt is a type of salt that is mined from underground and has a lot of health benefits. Rock salts have been found to be good for the skin, hair, eyes, and more!

This might not sound like an alternative but rock salt can also be used as a beauty tool! This type of salt can work wonders on getting rid of cellulite because it pulls water out which helps reduce the appearance or size. Rock Salt baths are great at soothing sore muscles too by improving your blood circulation with its mineral content!

You could use Epsom Salts in place of some other bath products such as soap or bubble bath if you want to help soothe dry patches on your skin. The magnesium and sulfates will help do just that while making bathing enjoyable again.

7) Table Salt: Table salt is a form of salt that is processed and purified to get rid of impurities. It can be found in many grocery stores, restaurants, or even on your dining table!

It might not have the same health benefits as Epsom Salts but it does provide much more flavor for food and other uses such as seasoning. Table salt has been used by people since Biblical times because they would use it with braids instead of expensive spices like pepper or cinnamon during this time period.

What’s great about using table salt is how easy it is to find them almost anywhere you go which makes them an ideal choice when cooking at home too! You could also purchase their pre-mixed products if you’re looking for something convenient to just add right.

8) Kosher Salt: Kosher Salt Is. Sea Salt: Salt is an essential part of cooking because it provides many benefits for food and other uses. The first benefit of using salt is that it helps foods taste better by

removing the bitterness or blandness from some ingredients such as tomatoes, potatoes, or yams. Salt also enhances flavors when paired with spices like garlic powder, ginger, onion powder, or black pepper. It can be found in many grocery stores, restaurants, or even on your dining table!

It might not have the same health benefits as Epsom Salts but it does provide much more flavor for food and other uses such as seasoning. Table salt has been used by people since Biblical times because they would use it with bread instead of expensive spices like pepper or cinnamon.

9) Celtic Sea Salt Or Ancient Sea Salts (Depending On The Region): Celtic sea salt or Ancient sea salts are both unrefined, with a natural white or pinkish color. They can be made from seawater or hand-harvested in salt marshes and then sun-dried through traditional methods.

Traditional processing leaves Celtic sea salt slightly moist and tacky to the touch. The flavor is rich but less salty than table salt due to the lower sodium content – perfect for those looking to reduce their sodium intake without sacrificing that salty taste!

This type of salt has been used by Europeans since ancient times because they believed it had many health benefits including alleviating cramps, easing sore throats, and curing headaches (guaranteed!). It’s even said to have anti-microbial properties which may help you in your body odor battle.

Lately, Celtic sea salt has been gaining popularity for its alternative uses in the kitchen. It makes a great finishing salt and is perfect on top of anything from scrambled eggs to desserts like ice cream or chocolate mousse.

10) Black Lava Rock Crystals, Also Known As Hawaiian Lava Salt: Crystals or Alaea Salt Crystals in Hawaii and other Pacific islands such as Fiji, Tahiti, and Tonga; these are not actually a type of “salt” but rather a type of volcanic ash that is mined from deep within the earth’s surface in Hawaii and then made into edible crystal-like particles for use in cooking or to add flavor to food dishes; they are typically used by chefs who specialize in Polynesian cuisine like Hawaiian Poke Bowls or Tiki Cocktails because they have an earthy taste with hints of sweet caramelized sugar cane flavors mixed with tangy citrus notes which makes them perfect for seafood recipes like poke bowls, ceviche dishes, sashimi salads, tuna tartar appetizers etc.; this is a great alternative if you want your dish to have an authentic island flavor without having to travel all the way to Hawaii; they also are used in Japanese cuisine like sushi and sashimi, but many people who want the same earthy taste without having to use sodium can instead opt for a Hawaiian sea salt which is made from volcanic ashes that have been heated at high temperatures.

11) Turmeric: Turmeric is another great natural remedy that can be used as an Epsom salt alternative! It’s commonly recommended to take in a cup of turmeric tea or hot water with milk, honey, or lemon juice. You can also make a paste by mixing some organic coconut oil with the ground spice if you’re looking for something more powerful than just taking it orally. Turmeric has been found to have many health benefits such as helping relieve pain from inflammation, reducing anxiety levels, and improving your mood.*Cumin seeds: Cumin seed powder tastes sort of like cayenne pepper but it doesn’t leave your skin feeling dry after use.

Pros and Cons of Epsom Salt

A common ingredient found in numerous households all over the globe, Epsom Salt holds a reputation for its wide range of benefits. However, like most substances, it also has drawbacks. This listicle provides a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of Epsom Salt.

Pros of Epsom Salt

1. Promotes Sleep and Stress Reduction:
Epsom salt contains magnesium, a compound that produces a neurotransmitter known for promoting sleep and reducing stress levels.

2. Ease Muscle Soreness:
Bathing in dissolved Epsom salt water can alleviate muscle soreness and stiffness. This makes it a favorite tool for athletes and those with arthritis.

3. Skin Exfoliation:
Epsom salt is thought to exfoliate dead skin and could even reduce the appearance of wrinkles when applied topically.

4. Additive in Gardening:
It also doubles as a garden wonder, serving as a fertilizer supplement and insect deterrent.

5. Constipation Relief:
Taken internally, Epsom salt functions as an effective laxative to treat constipation, given its capacity to draw water into the colon.

Cons of Epsom Salt

1. Possible Side Effects:
Ingesting Epsom salt, if not done properly, can lead to serious side effects like nausea, headache, lightheadedness, and flushed skin.

2. Not Suitable for Everyone:
People with kidney issues, heart disease or those pregnant should not consume Epsom salt without prior consultation with a medical professional.

3. Risk of Dehydration:
The laxative properties of Epsom salt could lead to dehydration or mineral imbalance if overused.

4. Skin Dryness:
While it may exfoliate skin, excessive use of Epsom salt can cause dryness or irritation to sensitive skin.

5. Potential for Over-reliance:
Epsom salt should not replace a balanced diet or sleep regime for magnesium intake or rest.

In conclusion, while the benefits of Epsom salt are numerous, it’s crucial to remember the potential side effects and ensure proper usage to maximize its pros while minimizing its cons. Always consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Epsom salt into any medical treatment.

Uses of Epsom Salt

1. A Bath Soak

Soaking in a bath enriched with Epsom salts can provide the body numerous benefits. It can aid in the relaxation of muscles and reduction of inflammation, which can alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis.

2. Skin Exfoliator

Epsom salt, when mixed with water or oil, creates a fantastic scrub that removes dead skin cells. It promotes healthy, glowing skin and can help unclog pores.

3. Hair Care

A rinse with Epsom salt can significantly increase hair volume. Additionally, it assists in removing toxins and buildup on the scalp that could have been caused by heavy hair products.

4. Plant Fertilizer

Epsom salt is a rich source of magnesium and sulfur, essential nutrients for plants. Therefore, adding it to the soil can significantly boost plant health and assist in its growth.

5. Foot Soak

Epsom salt foot soak treats a variety of foot issues – from toenail fungus and athlete’s foot to gout and foot odor. It helps to soothe sore muscles and reduce swelling in the feet.

6. Splinter Remover

A warm compress with Epsom salt can aid in drawing out a skin-embedded splinter, making it easier to remove without causing further skin damage.

7. Pest Control

Epsom salts can deter many garden pests, including slugs and beetles. Their effectiveness in pest control assists in maintaining the health of garden plants.

8. Pain and Cramp Relief

Epsom salt baths are commonly used to relieve discomfort from muscle soreness, injuries, or menstrual cramps. The magnesium in the salts helps to relax muscles and ease pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How to use Epsom salts: dosing, safety, and where to buy them.

Epsom salt is an amazing natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. It is also commonly used to relieve tired muscles and ease sore joints.

Epsom Salt is made from magnesium sulfate and comes in two forms: liquid and solid. Liquid Epsom salt dissolves quickly while solid Epsom salt dissolves slowly. Both types of Epsom salt are safe to use at home.

You can find both liquid and solid Epsom salt at your local health food store, drugstore, or even grocery store.

• What is Epsom Salt and What are its Health Benefits?

  Epsom salt is a natural mineral that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its ability to relieve muscle aches, soreness, and stiffness. It can be found in many different forms, including granules and crystals.

 The most common form of Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate. This compound helps relax tense muscles and reduce swelling. In addition, Epsom salt contains trace amounts of calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, phosphorus, bromide, iodine, fluoride, selenium, and silica. These minerals help maintain healthy bones, teeth, hair, nails, and connective tissue. They may also improve blood circulation and strengthen immune function.

References:

https://www.foodchamps.org/epsom-salt-substitutes/
https://www.goodtastingmeals.com/epsom-salt-substitutes/