The Safe Usage Of Epsom Salt As A Laxative

how many times per day epson salt as laxative

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a popular home remedy for constipation. It is available at most drugstores, natural food stores, and online. It is typically found in the laxative or personal care section.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of oral Epsom salt for occasional constipation. It is considered safe for adults and children over 6 years old. The recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years or older is 2 to 6 teaspoons dissolved in 8 ounces of water, taken twice daily, and at least 4 hours apart. It is important to note that Epsom salt should not be used for more than 4 days without consulting a doctor.

While Epsom salt is generally safe and effective in relieving constipation, it may cause mild side effects such as bloating, liquid stool, and upset stomach. It is important to drink plenty of water when using Epsom salt to avoid dehydration. Additionally, it should not be used by individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications without consulting a doctor first.

Characteristics Values
Number of times per day 2
Maximum recommended dose 6 teaspoons (36 g)
Minimum age 6 years old
Time to take effect 30 minutes to 6 hours
Maximum duration 4 days
Additional advice Increase water intake

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How to prepare an Epsom salt laxative

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a natural remedy for constipation. It is generally safe for adults and children over 6 years old to use. However, it is important to follow the correct dosage and not to exceed the maximum recommended dose. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and use an Epsom salt laxative:

  • Buy the right Epsom salt: Ensure that you purchase food-grade Epsom salt with magnesium sulfate as its main ingredient. It is typically found in the laxative or personal care section of drugstores, grocery stores, and some discount department stores.
  • Warm some water: Heat eight ounces (about 237 mL) of water in a pot on the stove over medium heat. Do not let the water boil, but make sure it is warmer than room temperature.
  • Add the salt: For adults, add 2 to 4 level teaspoons (12 to 36 g) of Epsom salt to the warm water. If you are preparing this for a child between 6 and 12 years old, add 1 to 2 level teaspoons (6 to 12 g). Stir the mixture until all the salt has dissolved. You can add a small amount of lemon juice to improve the taste.
  • Drink the mixture: Allow the mixture to cool down to a comfortable temperature before drinking it. Drink the whole cup at once.
  • Drink plenty of water: When taking Epsom salt as a laxative, it is important to increase your water intake to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.
  • Repeat if needed: You can drink another dose after 4 hours if necessary. However, do not take more than two doses per day and do not exceed the maximum daily limit. For adults, the maximum daily limit is 6 teaspoons (36 g), and for children aged 6 to 12, it is 2 teaspoons (12 g).
  • Consult a doctor if needed: If you do not have a bowel movement after two doses or if you still feel constipated after 4 days, contact your doctor for advice. Also, consult a doctor before using Epsom salt if you have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications.

It is important to note that Epsom salt should only be used occasionally as a laxative and is not recommended for long-term relief. It is also crucial to read and follow the instructions on the packaging, as manufacturer's recommendations may vary.

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How much Epsom salt to take

The amount of Epsom salt you should take as a laxative depends on your age. It is not recommended for children under 6 years old. For children aged 6 to 11, dissolve 1 to 2 level teaspoons of Epsom salt in 8 ounces of water and drink immediately. For adults and children aged 12 and older, the dosage is 2 to 6 level teaspoons dissolved in 8 ounces of water.

It is important not to exceed the recommended dosage. For adults, this means no more than 6 teaspoons (36g) per day, and this can be repeated once more at least 4 hours later. For children, the maximum is 2 teaspoons (12g).

Epsom salt is generally safe and can be used for up to 4 days. However, if you have not had a bowel movement after 2 days of using it, you should stop taking it and consult your doctor.

It is also important to drink plenty of water when taking Epsom salt as a laxative to avoid dehydration.

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How often to take Epsom salt

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a popular remedy for constipation. It is available at most drugstores, natural food stores, and online. It is generally safe for adults and children over 6 years old to use. However, infants and children under 6 should not use it internally or externally.

When used as a laxative, it is important to follow the dosage guidelines. For adults and children aged 12 and above, the recommended dosage is 2 to 6 level teaspoons (10 to 30 grams) daily. The doses can be divided across the day, but should not exceed the daily limit. It is recommended to drink a full glass of water (8 ounces) with each dose and to take the doses at least 4 hours apart.

For children aged 6 to 11 years old, the dosage is reduced to 1 to 2 level teaspoons (5 to 10 grams) daily, while still maintaining the same amount of water. It is important to note that children under the age of 6 should not be given Epsom salt unless recommended by a doctor.

Epsom salt usually produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours. If there are no results after the first dose, another dose can be taken after 4 hours. However, taking more than two doses per day is not recommended. It is also important not to use it for more than a week without consulting a doctor.

While Epsom salt is generally safe and has few side effects when used appropriately, it can cause mild gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, bloating, or an upset stomach. It is crucial to drink plenty of liquids while using it to avoid dehydration. Additionally, Epsom salt should not be used by individuals with certain conditions or symptoms, including kidney disease, a magnesium-restricted diet, sudden changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or a low-magnesium diet.

It is always recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before using Epsom salt or any other laxative, especially if you are taking other medications or have existing health conditions.

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Who should avoid Epsom salt

While Epsom salt is generally safe and easy to use, there are some groups of people who should avoid using it.

Firstly, individuals with sensitive skin should be cautious when using Epsom salt as they may experience side effects such as a skin rash or contact dermatitis.

More importantly, people with certain medical conditions should refrain from consuming Epsom salt. This includes individuals with kidney disease, heart disease, or any known heart arrhythmia. Those on a low-magnesium diet should also avoid it. This is because the kidneys filter excess magnesium from the body, and when they do not function properly, magnesium can build up and cause serious side effects, including confusion, abnormal heart rhythms, and seizures.

Pregnant women and children should not consume Epsom salt. Additionally, those taking certain medications, such as antibiotics, corticosteroids, blood pressure medications, diuretics, pain relievers, antacids, or antidepressants, should consult a doctor before using Epsom salt.

It is important to note that there is a lack of scientific evidence supporting the benefits of Epsom salt. While it is approved by the FDA as a laxative, there are no clinical trials confirming its effectiveness in treating constipation. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using Epsom salt, especially for internal consumption.

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Epsom salt side effects

While Epsom salt is generally considered safe and is associated with very few side effects, there are some instances where caution is advised.

Firstly, it is important to note that Epsom salt is not meant to be consumed in large quantities and should only be used orally as a laxative occasionally. The recommended dosage for adults is 2-6 teaspoons (10-30 grams) per day, dissolved in water. It is advised to drink this mixture a maximum of twice a day, with the doses at least 4 hours apart. It is also important to stay well-hydrated while using Epsom salt as a laxative to prevent dehydration.

Drinking Epsom salt can cause serious side effects such as severe diarrhea, bloating, upset stomach, and nausea. In extreme cases, an overdose of magnesium can lead to heart problems, altered mental status, and even death. It is crucial to consult a doctor if constipation persists for more than a week, as it could indicate an underlying medical condition.

Additionally, there are certain groups of people who should avoid consuming Epsom salt orally. These include individuals with kidney disease, heart disease, severe skin inflammation, and pregnant women. If you are taking certain medications, such as antibiotics or corticosteroids, it is important to consult your physician before using Epsom salt as a laxative.

Overall, while Epsom salt can be an effective remedy for constipation, it is important to use it appropriately and be aware of the potential side effects.

Frequently asked questions

For adults, use 2-6 level teaspoons of Epsom salt in 8 ounces of water. For children aged 6-12, use 1-2 level teaspoons in 8 ounces of water.

It is recommended to take no more than two doses of Epsom salt per day, with at least four hours between doses.

Epsom salt usually produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to six hours.

When used correctly, Epsom salt is considered safe. However, it can cause mild gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, liquid stool, and upset stomach.

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