The Science in the Bathwater

Some days the physicality of my work leaves me with an exhausted body. Recently, after a string of busy days filled with massage therapy appointments, I found myself particularly drained. I was feeling many of the symptoms that my clients seek my help to alleviate.

It is too soon in my new career to be developing over-use injuries so I panicked and started to book acupuncture and massage appointments for myself. Then the calm and confident voice that speaks to my clients when they are struggling with pain and discomfort said to me, "Take your own advice: run a hot bath with Epsom salts, do some stretches, and rest. You will feel better." So I did. And it was good advice.

This got me thinking about what goes on in the bathwater. Most of us know that if we are sore, taking an Epsom salt bath can help. But what is the science behind it? As with the various homecare exercises that I prescribe in my massage practice, understanding how the effects are achieved helps us to believe in the process, comply with the recommendation, and even continue to incorporate the practice into our routine.

 The chemistry and physiology of bathing in Epsom salts:

• Epsom salts are known by chemists as magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄·7H₂O) which occurs naturally as a pure mineral.
• Magnesium sulfate is more bio-available when used in a bath and can be absorbed by our bodies through the skin in a more efficiently than by oral consumption.
• Magnesium is the second largest component of human cells. Among other things, it regulates the function of over 300 enzymes which assists many bodily functions.
• Most if us are deficient in magnesium due to modern farming practices that strip magnesium and other valuable minerals from the soil, reducing the amount delivered to us in our food. Today, 68% of U.S. adults consume less than the recommended daily allowance of magnesium.

Benefits of using magnesium sulfate as a bath additive:

• Improves nerve function by regulating electrolytes. Calcium is the main conductor for nerve impulses in the body, and magnesium is necessary to maintain proper calcium levels in the blood.
• Flushes toxins and heavy metals from the cells, easing muscle pain and helping the body to detoxify.
• Reduces inflammation to relieve pain and muscle cramps.
• Relieves stress. Excess adrenaline and stress hormones may drain magnesium from the body. Magnesium is necessary for the body to bind adequate amounts of serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of well being and relaxation.

Dosage
Hot baths are not appropriate for everyone. Those with high blood pressure, sensation impairments, or anyone under bathing restrictions from their doctor should consult with them first.

• For soaking, add two cups of Epsom salts to your bath. Bathe three times weekly, soaking 15-20 minutes. Be sure to drink a couple glasses of water during or after your bath.
• For a foot bath, add a cup of Epsom salts to a tub of warm water as a treatment for aching feet. This application may be more suitable for hypertensive individuals.

Our bodies possess more innate healing power than we often give them credit for. If I sometimes forget this, then certainly others do as well. Of course, there are circumstances where a bath cannot be substituted for manual therapy, but in this instance, I personally needed to look within and harness my own rejuvenating powers.  I will still be going for a massage this week.

See you in the clinic,
Dana


Sources:

1. www.epsomsaltcouncil.org
2. An Introduction to Heat & Cold as Therapy, Laurel Fowlie RMT, BA, MEd, Curties-Overzet Publications, 2006
3. Chemistry image: http://www.worldofchemicals.com/wochem/pub/chemmagnesium-sulfate.html
4. Bathtub image: http://roysquest.wordpress.com/2012/08/11/dr-roys-10-tips-to-have-a-good-nights-sleep/