How to Make Epsom Salt Gel ?

Epsom salt gel is a simple and inexpensive way to soothe sore muscles, relieve aches and pains, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of Epsom salts. While you can purchase pre-made Epsom salt gels, it's easy and cost-effective to make your own at home with just a few basic ingredients.

What is Epsom Salt?

Before we dive into the gel-making process, let's quickly go over what Epsom salt is. Despite the name, Epsom salt is not a true salt but rather a mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. The compound was originally discovered in the town of Epsom in England, which is how it got its name.

Epsom salt has been used for centuries to ease muscle pain, reduce inflammation, help relieve constipation, and more. When dissolved in warm water and absorbed through the skin, the magnesium and sulfate are purported to promote healing and pain relief.

Benefits of Epsom Salt Gel

While soaking in an Epsom salt bath is one popular way to take advantage of the mineral's therapeutic properties, applying Epsom salt in gel form has some distinct benefits:

• Concentrated application to targeted areas of the body
• Long-lasting, slow release of the salts into the skin
• Easy to make in customized batches
• Inexpensive ingredients
• Can be made completely free of dyes, fragrances, etc.
• Portable for on-the-go use

What You'll Need

To make your batch of Epsom salt gel, you'll need just a few simple items:

• Epsom salt (get a high quality, food-grade variety)
• Liquid glycerin or aloe vera gel
• Essential oils (optional, for fragrance)
• A bowl and whisk or fork for mixing
• An airtight container for storing the finished gel

Making the Gel

Here are the easy steps to make an all-natural Epsom salt gel:

1. Measure out equal parts Epsom salt and liquid glycerin/aloe vera gel. A good starter ratio is 1 cup Epsom salt to 1 cup glycerin/gel.
2. Place the Epsom salt in a bowl and slowly mix in the glycerin/gel, using a whisk or fork to break up any lumps. The mixture will quickly form a gel-like consistency.
3. If desired, add 10-15 drops of essential oil such as lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint. This gives the gel a light, pleasant fragrance.
4. Once fully mixed into a smooth gel, transfer the mixture into an airtight jar or container.
5. Let the gel sit for 2-3 hours to allow any air bubbles to rise to the top before sealing it up.

That's it! Your fresh batch of Epsom salt gel is now ready to use.

How to Use Epsom Salt Gel

There are many ways to take advantage of this soothing Epsom salt gel:

• Rub it directly onto sore, achy muscles after exercise or physical activity
• Apply to joint areas like knees, elbows, or shoulders to ease inflammation
• Use it to massage tired feet after a long day of standing
• Smooth some onto temples to help relieve tension headaches
• Apply under tight wraps or compresses to problem areas

For best results, use the gel 1-2 times per day, gently massaging it into the skin until fully absorbed. You may feel a slightly tingly but not unpleasant sensation as the magnesium and sulfates absorb into your body.

The gel can typically be stored at room temperature for 6-12 months if kept in an airtight container. Always do a small skin test first to check for any reactions before applying liberally.

Give this simple, all-natural Epsom salt gel a try as an easy way to soothe aches and pains from the comfort of your own home. Your muscles will thank you!