Combining Epsom salt and apple cider vinegar in a single bath is a popular home remedy for various bodily discomforts and skin issues. This article explores the properties of each ingredient separately and provides practical, safe instructions for combining these common household items in your next soak.
Understanding the Benefits of Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a naturally occurring mineral compound known chemically as magnesium sulfate, not a traditional salt. When dissolved in warm water, it breaks down into magnesium and sulfate, which many believe can be absorbed through the skin. This purported absorption is the basis for its traditional use in soothing muscle aches and reducing joint stiffness.
Magnesium helps relax muscles and alleviate soreness following physical exertion. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath may also help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis. However, while many people report relief, scientific research has not definitively proven that the body absorbs enough magnesium through the skin during a bath to significantly affect systemic levels.
Understanding the Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is primarily composed of acetic acid. The mild acidity of ACV is the main reason it is used in bathwater, as it may help rebalance the skin’s acid mantle. The acid mantle is the slightly acidic barrier on the skin’s surface that protects it from environmental stressors and locks in moisture.
Washing with alkaline soaps or tap water can disrupt this protective layer, leading to dryness and irritation. Adding ACV to the bath makes the water’s pH level more acidic, assisting in restoring the skin’s natural balance. This property is why ACV baths are often suggested as a temporary soothing measure for common skin irritations. The acetic acid also possesses antimicrobial properties, which may help discourage the overgrowth of certain bacteria or yeast on the skin’s surface.
How to Combine ACV and Epsom Salt Safely
Combining Epsom salt and apple cider vinegar in bathwater is generally safe, as the two substances do not react chemically to form a harmful compound. To prepare the bath, fill the tub with comfortably warm water, avoiding excessive heat which can worsen inflammation or cause lightheadedness. For the Epsom salt, add about two cups to the bathwater and stir until fully dissolved.
The appropriate dilution for ACV is typically one to two cups added to a standard bathtub. This dilution is important because undiluted acetic acid can cause skin irritation, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or open cuts. Those with existing skin conditions should begin with a smaller amount of ACV, such as a half-cup, to test their skin’s reaction.
A combined soak should last for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Due to the acid content, rinse the body thoroughly with clean water immediately after getting out of the bath to prevent irritation and remove the strong odor. If you experience any burning, itching, or increased redness, discontinue the practice and rinse your skin immediately.