It is often used as a natural remedy for joint pain or skin conditions like athlete's foot. (h/t to PrepSchoolDaily.Blogspot.com)

What is Epsom salt?

Magnesium sulfate is a chemical compound made up of oxygen, magnesium and sulfur.

The item is named after the town of Epsom in Surrey, England, where it was first discovered in the 17th century. It was once the most popular medicinal treatment in England.

Locals noticed that cows and other animals visited a certain spring and miraculously, their wounds healed more quickly. News eventually spread and people traveled from all corners of the country seeking relief from their ailments.

But despite its name, Epsom salt is a different compound from table salt. It is believed that Epsom salt was called "salt" because of its chemical structure.

Epsom salt looks like regular table salt and is often dissolved in baths, which is why it is also called "bath salt." Despite their similarities, Epsom salt is very bitter and unpalatable, not salty.