Epsom salt foot baths may benefit numerous conditions, though research is currently limited. Some people, such as those with diabetes, should avoid foot soaks.

Epsom salt is a natural compound that contains magnesium sulfate and has a crystallized structure. People have used Epsom salt for hundreds of years to treat a variety of ailments, including pain. However, there is limited research supporting many of the medicinal claims.

The theory suggests that soaking feet in an Epsom salt bath allows the skin to absorb magnesium, which could help treat various foot problems. Some small studies back the claims, but scientists need to carry out more research to confirm how well Epsom salt foot soaks work.

This article looks at the benefits, risks, and explains how to use an Epsom salt foot soak. It also discusses alternative foot soaks.

Anecdotally, people add Epsom salt to a bath or use an Epsom salt foot soak to ease muscle soreness.

A few small studies suggest soaking in an Epsom salt bath may allow magnesium to penetrate the skin. A 2016 study found that magnesium penetrates the outer layer of the skin depending on the concentration of the salt and how long a person soaks in it.

Some people believe soaking the feet can rid the body of toxins and heavy metals, though the evidence is mixed.

Decreasing symptoms of athlete’s foot

According to the Epsom Salt Council, Epsom salt does not kill the fungus that causes athlete’s foot.

However, it may help draw the moisture out, which makes the environment less inviting for fungus.

Easing inflammation

While some advocates claim that an Epsom salt foot soak removes toxins from the body, there is no strong evidence to confirm this.

However, the absorption of the magnesium through the skin may boost the levels of the mineral in the body and decrease inflammation. Reducing inflammation may ease pain and stiffness associated with conditions.

For example, a 2023 study suggests that Epsom salt baths may be beneficial for alleviating symptoms of arthritis. However, more research is necessary.

Learn more about home remedies for arthritis.

Exfoliating the skin

The crystallized compound structure of Epsom salt provides exfoliation of the dead skin on the feet. The foot soak may help decrease roughness and leave the feet softer.

Reducing odor

Any type of foot soak might help reduce odor and clean the feet. Keeping the feet clean and free from bacteria is beneficial for overall foot health.

Learn more about ways to manage foot odor.

A foot soak involves immersing the feet in warm water. According to the Arthritis Foundation, water temperatures between 92ºF and 100ºF (around 33ºC and 37ºC) are best to ease soreness.

To use Epsom salt in a foot soak, consider the following steps:

  1. Fill a basin or foot spa with enough warm water to cover the feet up to the ankles.
  2. Add half a cup of Epsom salts.
  3. Place the feet in the soak for about 15 minutes.
  4. Dry thoroughly after the soak and then moisturize the feet.

An Epsom salt foot soak may dry out the feet, so it is best not to do it every night. Try soaking the feet once or twice a week to make sure it does not cause dryness.

Be sure to purchase Epsom salts and foot soaks intended for human use. All Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, but manufacturers produce a range of salts for different purposes. Chemically, all Epsom salt is the same, but it is available in different grades.

Look for Epsom salt that has USP designated on the label. USP indicates that scientists have tested the product for human use and that it has met the safety regulations established by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

For most people, an Epsom bath foot soak is generally safe. However, there are a few instances when it is best to talk to a healthcare provider before using. For example, people that have very dry skin should avoid overdoing foot soaks because the salt can dry out the skin leaving the feet more prone to cracks.

Foot soaks of any type are not safe for people who have diabetes due to the increased risk of infection. Regularly soaking the feet may increase dryness, which can lead to cracking and raise the risk of infection.

Individuals that have open wounds or sores should also talk with their doctor before using a foot soak.

A foot soak may not provide enough relief from certain foot problems. Consider seeing a medical professional if any of the following symptoms are present:

  • prolonged tenderness after a foot injury
  • foot pain that does not go away or keeps returning
  • swelling of the foot
  • open sores

Possible benefits of an Epsom salt foot soak include reduced inflammation, decreasing symptoms of athlete’s foot, soreness, exfoliating the skin, and reducing odors. However, more research is necessary.

For most people, the risks of using an Epsom salt foot soak are minimal. However, there are a few instances when it is best to avoid using a foot soak, including when a person has diabetes or open sores on their feet.

If a person has any concerns about conditions affecting their feet, it is best to contact a doctor for advice. The doctor can advise on foot soaks or other treatments that may help.