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Can Epsom Salts Help Thyroid Symptoms?

Originally published on 20th December 2016
Last updated on 9th February 2024

Epsom salt usage is becoming increasingly popular, especially among those with thyroid conditions, and there’s good reason why.

I use Epsom salts once or twice a week in a bath, and as and when I feel I need it in a foot soak, too.

A bag of Epsom Salts


What Are Epsom Salts?

Epsom salt is actually magnesium sulfate, which therefore, makes it a great source of magnesium. Some thyroid patients will use these salts in a bath or foot soak instead of taking magnesium supplements. There is some belief that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin.

How are Epsom Salts useful for thyroid problems?  Let’s explore below. 

A foamy bubble bath.

1. As a De-Stressor

A  bath with Epsom salts can help you unwind and get ready for bed; relaxing muscles and leaving you feeling de-stressed. The magnesium in the salts relieve stress by promoting the production of serotonin and reducing the effects of adrenaline. Magnesium is also important in the production of energy and helping us to feel invigorated, but without feelings of restlessness or anxiety.

2. For Aches and Pains

Many thyroid patients (including myself) say that Epsom salts help their aching muscles and tired legs or feet, headaches and more.

With cold and flu season underway, you could try soaking in Epsom salts as it should ease muscle aches and pains and help you get a good night’s rest.

3. For Regulating Blood Sugar

Both magnesium and sulfate (Epsom salts’ ingredients) help to improve production and use of insulin too. Therefore, regular intake of them may help to regulate blood sugar, lowering the risk of diabetes.

(Although it’s important to still have a balanced diet and not use methods such as Epsom salts in place of one!)

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If you’re interested in giving this multi-use, loved-by-many Epsom Salt a go, I’ve put a link to it here.

Have you tried Epsom Salts? What did you think?

You can click on the hyperlinks in the above post to learn more and see references to information given.

About Author

Rachel Hill is the highly ranked and multi-award winning thyroid patient advocate, writer, speaker and author behind The Invisible Hypothyroidism. Her thyroid advocacy work includes writing articles, authoring books, producing her Thyroid Family email newsletters and speaking on podcasts and at events about the many aspects thyroid disease affects and how to overcome these. She is well-recognised as a crucial and influential contributor to the thyroid community and has a large social media presence. Her bestselling books include "Be Your Own Thyroid Advocate" and "You, Me and Hypothyroidism".

3 Comments

  • Breege
    July 25, 2023 at 11:32 am

    I’m due to have my first floatation tank experience at the weekend…I’m still not 100% stable on my meds (T3 mono therapy). I’m wondering if it’s a good or bad idea to expose myself to this level of magnesium sulfate. My liver is struggling at the moment too with high ALT. Any opinions?

    Reply
    • Teena
      August 24, 2023 at 10:04 pm

      How did your flotation go??? Did you like it?

      Reply
  • Lisa B.
    March 1, 2022 at 2:56 pm

    I use this in a hot bath and it really is helpful. For me, I usually feel the most relief the following day, as early as the next morning. I have also used it as a foot soak (hot water) to help with Achilles pain. Great stuff!

    Reply

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