Epsom Salt Can Help You Poop When Nothing Else Works

Learn how this simple remedy may relieve constipation fast when all other options have failed.

What Is Epsom Salt?

Epsom salt is not table salt. It’s a mineral compound made of magnesium and sulfate. You’ll often find it in bath products, but many don’t realize it can also be taken internally, carefully, and in the right dose, for constipation relief.

Magnesium sulfate pulls water into your intestines. This softens your stool and makes it easier to pass. For people who haven’t had success with fiber, prunes, or over-the-counter laxatives, Epsom salt might be the next step.1

How Does Epsom Salt Work for Constipation?

Epsom salt is classified as a saline laxative. When taken by mouth, it works through osmosis, drawing water into your bowel. This extra water helps the stool move along more easily.2

It also triggers mild muscle contractions in the intestines, which help push waste out. This action usually starts within 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on your body and how much you’ve taken.

How to Use Epsom Salt for Constipation

You must follow the directions carefully. This is not a remedy to take lightly.

Here’s the general guide for adults:

  • Dissolve 2 to 4 teaspoons of Epsom salt in 8 ounces of water
  • Drink it all in one sitting
  • Follow with another glass of water

Use only once per day unless your doctor advises otherwise.

For children ages 6 to 12, the dose is smaller:

  • Dissolve 1 to 2 teaspoons in 8 ounces of water

Important: Always check the packaging for dosing instructions. Some formulations vary slightly.

What to Expect After Taking It

Most people will feel the urge to go within a few hours. You might feel some cramping or gas as your body starts moving things through. That’s normal and usually short-lived.

Stay near a bathroom, when it starts working, it works fast.

Is It Safe?

For occasional constipation, yes, it’s generally safe. But there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Don’t use it daily or long-term
  • Don’t take more than directed
  • Avoid it if you have kidney disease, heart problems, or are on a low-magnesium diet without checking with a doctor

Too much magnesium can lead to nausea, low blood pressure, confusion, or irregular heartbeat. This is rare, but it can happen if you take too much or have underlying health conditions.

Can You Use It in a Bath Instead?

Yes, soaking in an Epsom salt bath may help you relax and reduce mild constipation due to stress or inactivity. However, this method is not as strong or reliable as taking it orally.

Warm water can stimulate bowel movements in some people. But if you’re severely backed up, soaking alone probably won’t be enough.

When to See a Doctor

If you’ve been constipated for more than three days, or if Epsom salt doesn’t work, see a healthcare provider. You may have a blockage or another issue that needs medical care.

Also, seek help if you notice:

  • Blood in your stool
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Ongoing constipation despite home treatment

Final Thoughts

Epsom salt taken by mouth is a simple, effective option to relieve constipation as long as you use the recommended doses. But it’s not for everyday use. Think of it as a short-term fix, not a long-term plan.

The goal is to identify and fix what’s causing your constipation in the first place, whether it’s not enough water, fiber, movement, or a medication side effect.

Always talk to your doctor if you have frequent digestive issues.

FAQs

1. Can I take Epsom salt every day for constipation?
No. It’s not meant for daily use. Using it too often can cause dehydration, low electrolytes, and other health problems.

2. How fast does Epsom salt work?
Most people feel relief within 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking it.

3. Can children take Epsom salt for constipation?
Yes, but in smaller doses. Always follow package instructions and consult a pediatrician before giving it to a child.

4. What does it taste like?
Epsom salt has a bitter, salty taste. Some people mix it with lemon juice or juice to make it more tolerable.

5. What if I still can’t poop after taking it?
If you don’t have a bowel movement after 6 hours or if your symptoms worsen, contact a doctor. You may need a different type of treatment.

References:

  1. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=e985e071-5541-456e-ae4d-dba85287fe75 ↩︎
  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/epsom-salt-for-constipation ↩︎

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