epson salt laxitive?!?

Question

i heard that you can use epson salt as a laxitive, does this even work? if it does how much should i take? how long does it take to kick in? and how long will i have diarea for?

the reason i ask is because my friend told me she took some and she couldt stop pooping for like 2 days
pls give as much info as possible

Answer 1

Epson salts can be used as a laxative but should never be used unless approved by your doctor! You must be very careful! Epson salts are an osmotic laxative and, if used in high dosages, they can be toxic and affect the kidneys negatively. They should never be used by someone that has kidney issues or someone on a magnesium restricted diet.

Epson salts should also not be used if you have abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or are pregnant or nursing. Do not use it if you are taking certain medications or minerals, vitamins and herbal products. Please note that epson salts taken as a laxative can be fatal!

The dosage on the bag states 2 to 6 level teaspoons per 8 oz of water. It sounds like your friend used way too much! Usually, epson salts works overnight.

Now, knowing the dangers of epson salts, please consider using glycerine suppositories instead when you are constipated. They are very cheap, easy to use, not habit forming, gentle to the system and have no harmful side effects.