Epsom Salt Bath Benefits for Migraine Relief

Epsom salt baths can provide potential benefits for migraine relief. This is due to their ability to help relax the body, ease tension, and promote overall well-being. However, it’s important to note that while Epsom salt baths may offer relief for some individuals, they may not be a complete solution for everyone. Consulting with a healthcare professional is always recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Epsom salt bath benefits are plentiful. Taking a bath has become part of my self-care routine and a way I treat some of my migraine symptoms.  I typically make the time on Sundays to soak my week away and treat my letdown migraine attacks.  When I take a bath, I love to create a relaxing and individualized experience.  I fill my bath, light a candle, grab some water, and turn on music (some days I love the quiet). In this post, I provide my favorite simple Epsom salt bath recipe and some ideas for migraine relief with baths.

Epsom Salt Bath Recipe

• 1-2 cup Epsom Bath Salts
• 1/4-1/2 cup baking soda
• 8-10 drops of essential oils. (affiliate link)

Epsom Salt Bath for Potential Migraine Relief

• Fill your bathtub with warm water. The water should be at a comfortable temperature, not too hot.
• Add Epsom salt to the bathwater. The general recommendation is 1-2 cups of Epsom salt for a standard-sized bathtub. Follow the instructions on the Epsom salt package for specific measurements. I add baking soda and essential oils when on occasion.
• Stir the water to help dissolve the Epsom salt.
• Soak in the bath for about 15-20 minutes. Use this time to relax and unwind.
• After the bath, rinse off in a shower to remove any residue from the Epsom salt.

Benefits of Epsom Salt Baths

Here are some potential ways Epsom salt baths can be beneficial for migraine relief:

Muscle relaxation

Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, can be absorbed through the skin during a bath. Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in muscle relaxation and nerve function. Migraine is often associated with muscle tension so the relaxation provided by the magnesium in Epsom salt baths may help alleviate some migraine-related symptoms.

Stress reduction

Stress is a common trigger for migraine in many individuals. Taking a warm bath with Epsom salts can create a soothing and calming environment, which may help reduce stress and tension. Lowering stress levels may potentially decrease the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.

Improve circulation

Warm baths, in general, can help improve blood circulation throughout the body, including the head. Enhanced circulation might ease the pressure in the blood vessels around the brain, reducing the severity of migraine symptoms.

Detoxification

Epsom salt baths may assist in the removal of toxins from the body. Detoxifying can be beneficial for overall health, and some people report a reduction in migraine frequency and intensity after detoxifying. This is recommended by my functional medicine doctor.

Improve  sleep

Adequate rest and sleep are crucial for migraine management. A warm Epsom salt bath before bedtime may promote better sleep, helping to reduce migraine attacks triggered by inadequate sleep or irregular sleep patterns.

Can Baths Help Migraine?

Remember, while Epsom salt baths can be a helpful adjunct in managing migraine for some individuals, they are not a replacement for medical treatment. If you suffer from frequent or severe migraine attacks, it’s essential to work with a healthcare professional to identify triggers, manage symptoms, and explore appropriate treatment options.

There are many benefits to baths although I sometimes feel weak after. Some days, a bath is all I need to soak away my migraine symptoms. On other days, a hot bath makes my migraine symptoms worse. It is so individual and changes from day to day as does my preference for the smell. I have found that incorporating baths into my routine has provided me with comfort and natural relief. If full baths aren’t available, try a foot bath detox.

Natural Ways to Relax

I try to relax in so many different ways. My self-care mostly revolves around muscles and tension. Massage, baths, stretching, and physical movement help naturally relieve my tension. Beyond salt in my baths, I also have tried a salt cave and Himalayan salt lamp.

Do you use Epsom Salts in your Bath?

Consult a physician before you begin a bath routine. Do not take a bath if you are allergic to sulfur, pregnant, diabetic, or live with hemiplegic migraine or vestibular migraine. 

*This post contains affiliate links.  If you buy a product from the link I will be rewarded for my purchase.  Thank you!  I hope you love it as much as I do 🙂