Epsom bath salts – sometimes just called Epsom salt – have been around for centuries. But do you know what they are and how to use them? And, more importantly, how they could help with everything from sore muscles to broken sleep?

Before you run your next bath, let’s explore how Epsom salt could take your relaxation up a notch (or three). 

What is Epsom salt?

Despite the name, Epsom bath salt isn’t anything like the salt you’d add to your food. It’s actually a naturally occurring mineral compound made up of magnesium, oxygen, sulphur and water. Its scientific name is magnesium sulphate heptahydrate – that’s MgSO4·7H2O, for all the chemists out there.

Dissolved in a bath – hot or cool – it can help soothetired muscles, release tension and ease aches and pains.

 So why Epsom?

Now a leafy commuter town in Surrey, back in the 1600s, Epsom was a small village. The story goes that a local farmer looking for water for his cattle stumbled on a previously unknown spring.

When the cows wouldn’t drink, the water’s bitter, mineral taste was discovered, and one of Britain’s earliest spa towns was born. Everyone from Samuel Pepys and Daniel Defoe to King Charles II stopped by at some point over the ensuing years.

In the 1720s, Defoe wrote of Epsom that, “this place seems adapted wholly to pleasure”, thanks to the numerous inns, pretty surroundings and opportunities to mingle with friends.

The benefits of an Epsom salt

Whether you’re training for a marathon or running around after kids, work and a never-ending to do list, a warm bath with a generous pour of Epsom salts can help release tension, soothe tired muscles and even improve sleep.

How? When dissolved in water, Epsom salt releases magnesium ions.

Involved in over 300 processes throughout the body, magnesium is used for everything from regulating the nervous system to aiding muscle function and sleep.

And, while the recommended daily intake of magnesium is around 270mg, it’s thought that one in six UK adults has a magnesium deficiency.

What is Epsom salt best used for?

Epsom salt is great for physical aches and pains. Think post-workout recovery or releasing tension after a long day on your feet.

In fact, if it’s just your feet that need some TLC, a simple foot soak can help you unwind, recharge and get back to your best. Plus, you’ll have super-soft toes – perfect prep for a pedicure.

Just grab your biggest, fluffiest towel, pour a generous amount of Westlab Epsom Bath Salt into running water, and soak away the stresses of the day. For extra relaxation points, add a calming playlist or your favourite book.

Explore Westlab Epsom Salt >

How much Epsom salt should I use?

For a bath, add around 500g of Westlab Epsom Bath Salt to running water. For a foot soak, pour 250g into five litres of water. That’s right, don’t hold back.

Check out our perfect pour > 

Epsom Salt vs Magnesium Flakes vs Dead Sea

Choosing the right salt can elevate bath time from a quick dip to a truly restorative experience. Here’s how to choose the best salt for your soak:

Want to unwind after a workout: Epsom salt

Need help easing sore muscles: Epsom salt

In search of deep, restorative sleep: Magnesium flakes

Ready to slow down and switch off: Magnesium flakes 

Seeking something for sensitive skin: Dead Sea salt

Need comfort from dry, itchy skin: Dead Sea salt

Whether you can spare a quick 20 minutes or sink in for an hour, an Epsom salt bath is always time well spent. Because when your body is restored, everything feels possible again.

Shop Westlab Epsom Salt | Shop Westlab Magnesium Salt | Shop Westlab Dead Sea Salt