While Epsom Salt may not be rich, the salt's history definitely is. Epsom Salt is a naturally occurring pure mineral salt. Its chemical name is magnesium sulphate and it contains elements magnesium, sulphur and oxygen. It is also known as bitter salt and is named after the town of Epsom in England.

According to the Royal Society of Chemistry, Epsom Salt was discovered in 1618 by a local cowherd in the Epsom Commons, who was herding his cattle when he accidentally came across a spring. It was a very hot and dry day but strangely, despite the very hot weather, his cattle refused to drink the seemingly clean and clear water. He then tasted it himself and he realised that the water was bitter, and left a residue when water evaporated.

This white substance came to be known as Epsom salt. Soon after this discovery people started to realise its amazing health effects. In the beginning it was used mainly for laxative effects then later on it was used for relaxation and relieving muscle soreness.

Although the scientific evidence surrounding the benefits of Epsom Salt is quite limited, many health enthusiasts are convinced by the numerous health benefits of this simple salt and it is still increasing in popularity to this day. Its discovery led to Epsom becoming a spa town and becoming known across Europe and eventually the whole world, so even if its use is quite limited, it has still had a large impact on this seemingly simple town.