When used internally as a laxative, how does magnesium sulfate exert its effect on the bowels?
Answer
Magnesium works by drawing water into the intestines, which helps stimulate bowel movements.
The mechanism utilized when Epsom salt is ingested internally, usually for temporary constipation relief, relies on the osmotic properties of magnesium. Specifically, the magnesium component works by drawing water molecules into the environment of the intestines. This influx of water increases the volume and softens the contents within the bowels, which in turn acts as a stimulus to promote and regulate bowel movements. This process is entirely dependent on ingestion for systemic or gastrointestinal interaction, contrasting sharply with the debated dermal absorption during a bath.
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