When you search for home remedy of ingrown toenails, you may often see people suggesting to soak your foot into warm water with “Epsom Salt.” But what exactly is Epsom salt, and how does it work?
What is Epsom salt
Epsom salt is named by its chemical structure, and it is formally called magnesium sulfate. It has been traditionally used for bath salts, and it can also be used for beauty products, medical field, agriculture, and also food preparation such as beer. Medically Epsom salt can be used both externally and internally.
Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) is listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (http://www.who.int/medicines/publications/essentialmedicines/EML2015_8-May-15.pdf), as one of the most important medications needed in a basic health system
How Epsom salt bath works
Epsom salt dissolves in water very well. In water, Epsom salt breaks down into magnesium and sulfate, and these penetrate through your skin when you soak your foot. These chemicals are known to treat skin inflammations, which may reduce the pain from the ingrown toenails.
Epsom salt bath could be a great idea to reduce pain for your ingrown toenail. However, if your pain will not go away after a reasonable period of time, see your doctor so you can prevent to have a more severe infection on your toe.