Do Epsom salt baths raise magnesium levels?

Question:
Will an Epsom salt bath increase magnesium levels in my body like a supplement?

Answer:
Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) added to a bath can raise magnesium levels in the body, according to a preliminary study. Details, including the amount of Epsom salt needed, are found in the Epsom salt section of the Magnesium Supplements Review. Also see the evidence regarding other transdermal methods of obtaining magnesium (e.g., creams, sprays and oils) and our Top Picks among magnesium supplements.

Be aware that it can be dangerous to ingest large amounts of Epsom salt. Learn more about this and other Concerns and Cautions with magnesium supplementation.

Learn more about magnesium supplements:

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Is it true that I should not keep magnesium supplements in a daily pill pack mixed with other supplements and medicines? >>

Help! How do I know how much magnesium I am actually getting from my supplement? The label says it contains 500 mg of magnesium "as magnesium citrate" -- but how much of that is magnesium and how much is citrate? >>

Are there drug interactions with magnesium supplements? >>

I've read that magnesium deficiency is rare but also that most people don't get enough magnesium. How can these both be true? >>

Do magnesium creams, sprays and oils really work? >>

How do I choose the best magnesium supplement?  >>

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