Maybe you’re trying to ease sore muscles after an intense workout, or perhaps you just want to try and detox in the bath. Epsom salt has been used for its therapeutic potential for centuries.
But as you may already know, it falls short in a few different ways - from low bioavailability to skin sensitivity and irritation. This is why you need to set yourself up for success with an epsom salt substitute for bath. We’re here to list the top epsom salt bath alternative options:
- Magnesium Chloride Flakes
- Dead Sea Salt
- Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
- Himalayan Pink Salt
- Colloidal Oatmeal
- Essential Oils and Herbal Soaks
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Witch Hazel
- Ginger Powder
- Clay Baths (Bentonite or Kaolin Clay)
While each of these has its place, the best epsom salt replacement for bath is just a few clicks away at Flewd Stresscare. Our magnesium bath soak is formulated with supporting vitamins, minerals, and nootropics to help you fight stress symptoms at the source.
Learn more about what makes this the #1 alternative to epsom salt for baths, or experience the magnesium soak benefits firsthand and see what keeps our customers coming back for more!
What is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, is a naturally occurring mineral compound with a long history of use in baths for relaxation and relief for sore, tense muscles.
While it technically has more uses beyond the bathtub, this is what it’s most known for. It dissolves in warm water, breaking down into magnesium and sulfate. These compounds are then absorbed transdermally, or through the skin.
Many people turn to Epsom salt soaks to manage muscle cramps, joint stiffness, and post-workout recovery. It’s also used for minor detoxification, skin exfoliation, and as a natural remedy for stress relief. It’s really versatile.
So then why are more and more people searching for an epsom salt substitute for bath? Let’s look at some of the shortcomings that may have brought you here searching for an epsom salt alternative.
Why Do You Need an Epsom Salt Bath Alternative?
The short answer for why you need an alternative to epsom salt is that it has low bioavailability compared to some of the common epsom salt substitutes. But, it can also cause skin irritation and is even linked to environmental concerns.
Limited Magnesium Absorption
Bioavailability speaks to how efficiently a substance can be absorbed by the body and put to work. The more bioavailable something is, the better. Despite its reputation for replenishing magnesium levels. Epsom salt falls short.
Research suggests that the skin absorbs only a small amount of magnesium sulfate. It’s less effective for replenishing the body’s magnesium stores compared to other forms, such as magnesium chloride.
Given that most of the epsom salt benefits can be traced to magnesium, it’s worth looking for an epsom salt alternative for baths that has better bioavailability.
The benefits are fairly short-lived, which means you’ll need to use a lot of epsom salt, and use it frequently. Given that epsom salt is fairly affordable this doesn’t sound like the worst thing in the world. But, this leads to another reason people are looking for an epsom salt bath alternative.
Skin Sensitivity and Irritation Risks
Bioavailability aside, epsom salt baths can have a drying effect on the skin as well. This is a risk for everyone but especially those who are more prone to sensitivity or have already irritated skin.
The high sulfate content can strip away natural oils from the skin, contributing to a tight, dry feeling or sometimes even redness after soaking for longer periods of time. Those with eczema or psoriasis may find that Epsom salt worsens irritation rather than providing relief.
Environmental Concerns
You shouldn’t just find an epsom salt substitute for bath for your own sake, but for our environment as well. Epsom salt goes down the tub when you open the drain and can make its way into waterways.
This wastewater can create imbalances and wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems and soil quality. The good news, though, is there is an alternative to epsom salt you can rely on with peace of mind, knowing it’s working for you and our planet.
Common Choices for an Epsom Salt Replacement For Bath
So, what is the best epsom salt substitute for bath? We’ll narrow it down to just one that we recommend, but we wanted to list a few different options to let you make the decision based on your goals. You can’t beat magnesium chloride an epsom salt bath alternative, though.
Magnesium Chloride Flakes
Magnesium chloride is by far the best magnesium for stress, the best magnesium for muscle recovery, and the best magnesium period. It all comes down to bioavailability. It’s the most efficient form of magnesium, especially from a transdermal perspective.
Unlike magnesium sulfate (epsom salt), magnesium chloride quickly replenishes your body’s magnesium stores to provide lasting benefits for days after your soak. It can alleviate muscle tension, joint stiffness, mental turmoil, and sleeplessness.
You won’t have to worry about drying out your skin with this epsom salt replacement for bath, either. All this being said, it’s no wonder we use magnesium chloride in our stress relief bath soak formulations!
Our blog has additional resources comparing magnesium flakes vs epsom salt and magnesium sulfate vs magnesium chloride if you’d like to learn more. Let’s look at some other options for an epsom salt bath alternative below.
Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
Another household epsom salt replacement for bath is baking soda, which is known scientifically as sodium bicarbonate. It’s a gentle yet effective additive to your bath that brings added benefits of softening your skin and detoxifying your body.
Baking soda can help neutralize acidity in the body, reducing muscle tension and inflammation. It also balances pH levels and may help soothe rashes or sunburns.
One common use case for this particular epsom salt bath substitute is to improve circulation post-workout and reduce lactic acid buildup. This in turn speeds up recovery. Learn more about using this epsom salt alternative in a homemade bath soak for sore muscles without epsom salt.
Dead Sea Salt
People gather at the Dead Sea just for the opportunity to immerse themselves in the nutrient-rich water and enjoy all the therapeutic benefits that come with it. You can save yourself the trip and just harness the power of dead sea salt from the comfort of your own tub, though.
This salt is harvested from those same mineral-rich waters, so it’s highly concentrated in magnesium, calcium, potassium, and bromide. It may help soothe sore muscles, detoxify the skin, and promote relaxation all that once.
Dead Sea salt is a great epsom salt alternative for those with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, since it helps restore moisture balance while reducing irritation and inflammation.
Himalayan Pink Salt
Rather than going to the depths of the ocean for your epsom salt replacement for bath, you can head to the tips of the Himalayan mountains! This unrefined salt is packed with over 80 trace minerals including magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
So why use this epsom salt bath alternative? It helps draw toxins out of the body, improves circulation, and hydrates the skin simultaneously. Meanwhile, its gentle exfoliating properties also help remove dead skin cells, leaving skin feeling smoother and more refreshed after a bath.
Colloidal Oatmeal
Most of the epsom salt bath substitute options thus far have been some form of salt - so how did colloidal oatmeal make the list? This plant-based alternative soothes the skin while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
It’s popular among those with sensitive skin, eczema, or allergies because it creates a protective barrier and locks in moisture. You’d use this epsom salt replacement for bath similar to any other, adding it to your tub for stress relief, relaxation, and calming itchy or irritated skin.
Essential Oils and Herbal Soaks
Mother Nature has provided quite a few other options if you’re still looking for the best alternative to epsom salt, like lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus.
Each brings something unique to the table, but they share the common traits of enhancing relaxation and stress relief when added to a warm bath.
You can take this a step further by pairing them with dried herbs such as calendula, rosemary, or peppermint for an ultra-aromatic soak that supports muscle recovery and mental well-being.
We’ve even seen people pair herbal soaks with adaptogens, like ashwagandha or holy basil, to help balance stress hormones through the most restorative bath experience possible.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural detoxifier thanks to its acetic acid content, which serves the dual purpose of helping to balance the skin’s pH and combat bacterial and fungal infections.
This epsom salt bath alternative can soothe irritated skin, relieve muscle aches, and boost blood circulation. It’s also beneficial for managing eczema or psoriasis because of its hydrating effect and ability to support a healthier inflammatory response.
We recommend you add 1-2 cups of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to warm bathwater and soak for 20 minutes to enjoy all its cleansing and skin-softening potential.
Witch Hazel
Those looking for an epsom salt substitute for bath specifically for support managing inflammation or for antimicrobial properties can consider witch hazel, a skincare staple.
It can be added to the bath water to calm irritated skin, reduce swelling, and promote faster healing of minor cuts or blemishes. It’s also used for dealing with sunburn, rashes, or hemorrhoids.
A little goes a long way with this epsom salt bath alternative, though. Just ½ cup of pure witch hazel extract added to a warm bath is plenty to unlock its soothing benefits
Ginger Powder
Ginger powder is a powerful natural remedy known for its warming effects and ability to stimulate circulation, relieve muscle soreness, and promote detoxification.
Using this epsom salt replacement for bath can also induce sweating, especially when the water is hot, which can flush out toxins while reducing joint pain and stiffness. It sort of mimics the effects of a sauna, and we love using it for colds, flu symptoms, and post-workout recovery.
Clay Baths (Bentonite or Kaolin Clay)
Last but not least, we have one final epsom salt substitute to share: bentonite or kaolin clay. This epsom salt alternative is specifically tailored to those who are looking for detoxification.
Clay in its various forms can pull toxins and heavy metals from the skin while replenishing minerals. Bentonite clay offers a deeper detoxification, while kaolin clay is gentler for those with skin sensitivities.
Either way, you’re getting relaxation and improved circulation. This epsom salt replacement for bath might even help with muscle tension caused by inflammation.
But like we said from the start, don’t get overwhelmed by all the options you have at your disposal for an epsom salt bath alternative. The best magnesium soak is here waiting for you!
The Best Epsom Salt Substitute for Bath is a Few Clicks Away at Flewd Stresscare!
Don’t settle for less than the best when trying to harness the benefits of magnesium. Whether for relieving muscle tension or easing anxiety, your search for the best epsom salt substitute for bath ends here at Flewd Stresscare.
We’ve formulated natural solutions combining magnesium chloride with a range of vitamins, minerals, and nootropics for synergistic wellness. Our products deliver key nutrients for up to 5 days post-soak! There’s something for everyone here in our catalog, too:
- Sads Smashing Soak: Magnesium chloride, B vitamins, and Lithium uplift mood and balance emotions, while a refreshing scent of desert rain and bright green notes creates a rejuvenating experience.
- Insomnia Ending Soak: Blended with magnesium chloride, vitamins A & E, and L-carnitine to calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep. Features a citrus-forward Yuzu scent with warm floral undertones.
- Panic Crushing Soak: Designed for nervous system support with magnesium chloride, boron, and omega-3s to reduce anxiety and stabilize cortisol levels. The grounding sandalwood and coconut scent help reset your senses.
- Rage Squashing Soak: Relax muscles, lower stress hormones, and balance mood with magnesium chloride, nootropic chromium, and vitamin B12. Invigorating eucalyptus, fresh mint, and lemon zest provide a refreshing aroma.
- Ache Erasing Soak: Infused with magnesium chloride, vitamins C & D, and omega-3s to relieve muscle soreness and fight inflammation. You’ll love the vibrant blood orange, mandarin, and clementine scent.
- Anxiety Destroying Soak: A powerhouse for stress relief with magnesium chloride, complex B vitamins, and zinc to ease nervous tension and stabilize mood. Indulge in a calm ocean air scent with lime rind, soft sea salt, and white florals for a tranquil escape.
Our soaks are formulated with 99% natural ingredients, free from artificial fragrances, parabens, and synthetic additives. They’re easy to use too - just dump the contents in a warm bath, soak for 15-30 minutes, and repeat this ritual 2-3 times a week.
We’re confident you’ll agree this is the best epsom salt substitute for bath once you try it. So what are you waiting for? Experience the difference firsthand and transform your bath into a true wellness retreat!
Parting Thoughts on the Best Alternative to Epsom Salt
No matter what brought you here looking for an epsom salt bath alternative we hope this guide has left you feeling clear as to which is right for you. You don’t have to put up with skin irritation and lackluster results when so many great alternatives to epsom salt exist!
But if you’re after the best epsom salt alternative for bath, look no further than Flewd Stresscare. From our muscle bath soak to our anxiety bath soak, you can pinpoint the benefits you want through our intuitive formulations.
Faster absorption, higher bioavailability, zero skin irritation, and longer lasting relief - what more could you ask for? Upgrade your bath routine today and ditch epsom salt for an alternative that works as hard as you do.
