Is Epsom Salt Safe for Kids?

Parents have a few reasons to use Epsom salt to treat their children's ailments. It is a known laxative and can also relieve pain and swelling when applied as a soaking solution. The white substance, which looks like crushed rocks, does seem like it could harm kids, and it can when improperly used. Despite its over-the-counter availability and harmless appearance, there are a few occasions when Epsom salt is not considered safe for kids.

  1. Recommended Uses

    • Epsom salt is safe for use as a soaking agent in children of any age, according to U.S. National Library of Medicine; just make sure your child doesn't ingest the soaking solution. Be careful, though, when administering Epsom salt as a laxative. The NLM recommends using the salt for this use only for children age 6 and older. As a soaking solution, the NLM recommends that all ages use 2 cups of Epsom salt dissolved in a warm bath with running water. For use as a laxative, the dosage for kids age 6 to 12 is 1 to 2 Tbsps. of Epsom salt per in an 8-oz. glass of water, according to the NLM.

    Doctor-Supervised Use

    • According to the NLM, kids under the age of 6 should only take an Epsom salt laxative with the permission and supervision of a doctor. Parents of younger kids should consult a doctor first to see if their child's condition can be helped by the Epsom salt solution. The dosing instructions should come from the doctor, as well.

    In Event of Overdose

    • No child should take Epsom salt in any form without the supervision of a parent or guardian. If Epsom salt is ingested accidentally, the NLM urges parents to call their local poison control hotline. You can also seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an Epsom salt overdose include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. An overdose can be fatal if left untreated.

    Other Considerations

    • Other than the recommended uses as a laxative or for soaking an injury, children should not take Epsom salt. Parents who wish to treat other ailments with the salt should consult a doctor first. Epsom salt may seem like a harmless substance, but it can cause serious ailments if improperly given to children.

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