Epsom Salt In An Ice Bath

It's more than likely that you have heard of an Epsom salt bath, but have you heard of an Epsom salt ice bath? If you haven't, you're about to. Epsom salts have a lot of benefits that we already utilize in a standard setting, so it makes sense to explore adding them to our wellness routines.

In this article, we'll start with the basics and work our way up, covering the health benefits of Epsom salts, what Epsom salt is, how to use it, and when to use it. Let's start with...

What is Epsom Salt?

Though it may look similar and even dissolve in water, Epsom salt is not the same thing as table salt. Epsom salt is a type of pure magnesium sulfate, which is a chemical compound of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. Epsom salt baths are a common remedy for aching joints, sore or tight muscles, and even headaches.

Epsom salt is very bitter and unpalatable, but some people still choose to consume it by dissolving it in water. This is a common enough way to help with constipation and magnesium deficiencies. Though, that takes a special kind of grit because it doesn't taste good.

The benefits of Epsom salt have been known and used for hundreds of years. It has been used to treat deficiencies, electrolyte needs, and even eclampsia. Though Epsom salt has been popular for a long time, we are just now, as a society, visiting the idea of Epsom salt ice baths.

What are the Benefits of Adding Magnesium Sulfate to Ice Baths?

Adding Epsom salt to your ice baths can enhance the experience by altering the physical characteristics of the water (it will have a lower freezing point, for one) and the physiological effects of that water on your body. Here are just a few of the benefits that come with adding Epsom salt to your ice baths:

Muscle Recovery

Just like with a warm bath, if you add Epsom salt to your ice bath, you will notice a distinct difference in your recovery time. If you're someone who uses ice baths after exercise or sports, this could be a game-changer for you!

Relieve Muscle Soreness

Epsom salts provide quick relief for sore muscles. Even if you didn't work out, even if you just had a long day on your feet, or you lifted something wrong and pulled a muscle, adding Epsom salts to your ice bath is a great way to remove some of that soreness.

Relax Muscles

All of us carry a lot more tension around than we think we do. All it takes is one stressful conversation for our muscles to clench and gather a few unwanted knots. If you spent a stressful day at work, for example, it's likely that your shoulders are tight and your hands refuse to relax. This is because of muscle strain. Epsom salts help your muscles relax which, in turn, takes stress away. It's almost like a massage you can't feel. Epsom salts calm your muscles down leaving you in a much better state, physically and mentally.

Physical Support

Cold thermogenesis (which is the process of generating heat that happens when you get to cold) takes energy and electrolytes. Epsom salts have magnesium that helps replenish those electrolytes. This provides full body support while you're undergoing a time of physical stress. People who use Epsom salt in their ice baths often find that they're comfortable for longer and they feel less depleted afterward.

Should I Add Epsom Salts to My Cold Plunge?

Current evidence all leans towards the incredible benefits of adding Epsom salt to your ice bath. The idea is that you get the health benefits of an ice bath while, at the same time, all the benefits that come with a magnesium boost. It's a wonderful combination!

As always, the most important thing is just to listen to your body. If you've found a comfortable regime of ice bathing and adding Epsom salts throws off your body's tolerance levels, it might not be worth it to figure out what's going on. Use your physical and mental reactions as a guide on how to proceed.

Adding Epsom Salt to an Ice Bath

The process is about the same as if you were to add Epsom salt to a warm bath, but you use cold water instead. Here are the steps:

• Fill your bath/cold plunge with cold water

• Add Epsom salts (the amount partially depends on how much water is in your tub)

• Stir the water until the salts are fully dissolved (this will take more time in cold water than it will in warm water, so be patient)

• Immerse yourself in the water for as long as you are comfortable (if you have been cold plunging for a while, this could be as much as 10-15 minutes. If you're new, it could be as little as 2 minutes)

• Once you're done, get out and dry off.

That's it! With these simple steps added to your cold plunging routine, you can start enjoying the benefits of Epsom salt.

How Much Epsom Salt Should Be Added to Cold Plunges?

As mentioned above, the amount of salt you add to your bath will be dependent on how large your container is, but it's typical to start with 2-4 cups. That's a safe range for just about any bath or cold plunge, so unless you're working with something extremely large (or if the instructions on your container specifically say otherwise), this amount should be just right.

Precautions of Taking an Epsom Salt Ice Bath

Everything pertaining to health and wellness should be considered carefully before taking action. Here are some cautions to think about before taking the plunge:

• Epsom salt is not a standalone remedy for magnesium deficiency.

• Epsom salt can cause some people to experience skin irritation or other allergic reactions. Test the salt on a small area of your skin before you fully immerse yourself in it. If you are especially sensitive, consider getting unscented Epsom salts.

• Some Epsom salt packages will have their own instructions. Follow those instructions closely to get the best results, and stay safe.

Epsom salt is a great way to enhance your cold plunge experience and magnify the benefits. It's also a super easy step to incorporate! If you want to see your health take an even greater leap forward, try adding Epsom salt to your ice baths. You might just find that you sleep better, your mood is better, your body works like it's supposed to, and life is all around improved.