Re: Need advice on Epsom Salt reaction

Epsom Salts is a hyperosmotic saline type laxative which acts within in a regulation time of 1-6 hours, however this figure is also reported to be 3 to 12 hours or even longer up to 24 hours. I assume it is dependant upon the transit time through the small intestines. It contracts the gallbladder, relaxes the sphincter of Oddi, and increases gastric, intestinal and pancreatic secretion and, very importantly, production of cholecystokinin.

It is recommended that if you get an extreme reaction then you should reduce the dose from 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon per 6 fluid ounces of warm water by 1 teaspoon at a time.

Also as a rough guide that the first bowel movement containing food from previous meals should be extremely soft but not watery.