Epsom Salt Baths for Cold & Flu Symptoms | Epsom Salt Council (2024)

FAQs

Is Epsom salt bath good for cold and flu? ›

A hot bath with Epsom salts will help draw out toxins and is one of the simple cold and flu remedies you can DIY at home. Your skin is your body's largest organ for eliminating toxins and the magnesium and sulfur added to the bathwater by Epsom salts will speed up the process.

And by adding bath salts to your cold bath, you're effectively enhancing the benefits of it, making the initial coldness much more worth it! Just add 2-4 cups of Epsom Salt to a shallow amount of warm water, stir to dissolve and then fill the rest of your bath with cold water (and ice if you're feeling extra brave).

Using too much can have adverse effects, such as drying out your skin. Remember, balance is key. Excessive use may also lead to irritation for those with sensitive skin. If you find yourself reaching for epsom salt daily, it might be time to reassess and give your skin a breather.

EPSOM SALT BATHS: These provide the body with magnesium and hydration, while drawing out toxins. Mix 2 cups of epsom salt in a lukewarm bath (avoid cold baths with fevers, it actually makes it worse) and let the child soak for 10 minutes.

Epsom salt baths can help relax muscles and relieve body aches associated with colds and the flu. They can also help dilate blood vessels, which increases white blood cell production to help speed recovery.

Acute sickness. A hot Epsom salt bath can increase your body's temperature set point enough that the bacteria or virus can no longer live. The heat and nutrients will also stimulate the immune system.

If you decide not to rinse off afterwards, your body may benefit for longer from the purported healing properties of the salt. However, Epsom salts can sometimes have a drying effect, so you may want to have a quick rinse off afterwards, especially if you have dry skin anyway.

Ultimately it depends on your body, your training and your goals. If your objective is simply to alleviate pain, then an ice bath might be the way to go. If you're looking to improve circulation and reduce stiffness, soaking in a warm epsom salt bath or even a hot tub can do the trick.

How hot should your bath water be? Epsom salts should always be used in warm and hot baths, not the cold ice baths you may take after exercise to relieve inflammation.

Additionally, some people may find Epsom salts baths too stimulating, according to Sandison. These people may experience more fatigue, soreness, and brain fog the day after an Epsom salt bath.

How long is too long in an Epsom salt bath? ›

If a person is unsure about how to use Epsom salts in their bath, they can follow these steps: Use 2 cups of Epsom salt for a standard-size bathtub. Pour the Epsom salt into warm running water. Soak in an Epsom salt bath for 15–30 minutes or up to 1 hour.

It is best to have an Epsom salt bath before bed as it will allow a more productive and restful sleep while producing an energy charging effect for the next day. By taking an Epsom salt bath it will not only allow your body to help heal faster but will also aid with sleep.

If your objective is simply to alleviate pain, then an ice bath might be the way to go. If you're looking to improve circulation and reduce stiffness, soaking in a warm epsom salt bath or even a hot tub can do the trick.

How hot should your bath water be? Epsom salts should always be used in warm and hot baths, not the cold ice baths you may take after exercise to relieve inflammation.

Eucalyptus. This is generally one of the most commonly used herbs for sinus relief. It is in chest rubs and herbal steams. Place this in your bath salts for decongestion.

People with colds can shower normally. However, it is advisable to bathe properly to avoid the condition from becoming worse. You should take a warm bath with a shower to keep your nose moist. If you have dizziness due to a cold, you can take a wet bath (dropper) in a sitting position and take a sponge bath.