What is epsom salt used for?
In 1618 a farmer at Epsom in England attempted to give his cows water, but they refused to drink it to due its sour/bitter taste. However the farmer noticed that the water seemed to heal scratches and rashes. The fame of Epsom salts then began to spread. Epsom salt was originally prepared by boiling down mineral waters at Epsom, England, and later prepared from sea water. In modern times, these salts are obtained from certain minerals such as epsomite. Medical use: Locally it may be used as a treatment of an ingrown nail. Oral magnesium sulfate, or magnesium hydroxide, is used as a laxative. Epsom salts are also available in a gel form for topical application in treating aches and pains. Intravenous use is broadening, as magnesium sulfate reduces striated muscle contractions and blocks peripheral neuromuscular transmission by reducing acetylcholine release at the myoneural junction, as well as other effects. Indications for its use are: * Hypomagnesemia (low magnesium concentrations in
