Have you ever asked yourself, what are magnesium benefits for the body? Is there a way to maximize them?
Magnesium is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in many body processes, including energy production, nerve function, and muscle contractions. It is also beneficial for the nervous system and heart. While it is found naturally in many foods, including leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains, many people still struggle to get enough magnesium through their diet, therefore supplementation may be an option. However, there are many different kinds of magnesium. Let’s demystify the types of magnesium, their benefit to the body and how you can use them in your personal care routine.
Magnesium Sulphate
Magnesium sulfate, also known as Epsom salt, has been used for centuries for its numerous health benefits. One of the most significant benefits of Epsom salt is its ability to reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate pain. This is due to the high levels of magnesium and sulfate present in the salt, which can be absorbed trans dermally, through the skin. This makes Epsom salt an excellent option for people with sore muscles, arthritis, and other joint-related conditions.
Make Time for the Tub
Taking a bath with Epsom salt may also help muscle soreness from exercise.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, Epsom salt is also believed to have a range of other benefits. These include improved skin health, stress relief, and better sleep. The magnesium in Epsom salt is thought to help regulate the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that is critical for healthy sleep. As a result, Epsom salt baths have become a popular natural remedy for people with insomnia or other sleep disorders.
For increased relaxation in your bath, add 5 drops of essential oil to 1 tablespoon of liquid soap. Great choices for a relaxing bath include lavender, frankincense, patchouli, rose, or bergamot. Whichever essential oils you choose, just be sure that they are skin safe and not mucous membrane irritants. Add your scented liquid soap to one cup of Epsom salt. Enjoy your relaxing tub for at least 15-20 minutes.
Who Should Avoid Epsom Salt Baths
It’s worth noting that while Epsom salt is generally safe for most people, there are some concerns to consider. For example, people with kidney disease or other renal conditions should avoid using Epsom salt, as it can exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, some people may experience skin irritation or other allergic reactions when using Epsom salt. Therefore, it is always a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider before using any new health supplements or remedies, including Epsom salt.
Magnesium chloride
Magnesium chloride is a highly absorbable form of magnesium that can be absorbed through the skin for a variety of health benefits. This type of magnesium is first made into sheets and then broken into small pieces. It is sold as “flakes”.
One of the key benefits of magnesium chloride is its ability to support healthy muscles and joints. Magnesium plays an important role in muscle function, helping to regulate the contractions and relaxations of muscles throughout the body. When applied topically, magnesium chloride can help to soothe sore muscles and joints, making it a popular choice among athletes and those with chronic pain conditions.
Another potential benefit of magnesium chloride is its ability to support healthy skin. Magnesium plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin, helping to regulate cell growth and repair damaged tissues. When applied topically, magnesium chloride can help to improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy, glowing complexion.
In addition to its benefits for muscles, joints, and skin, magnesium chloride has been shown to have a positive impact on overall health. Studies have linked magnesium supplementation with a reduced risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Magnesium chloride may also help to improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and support healthy immune function.
Looking for help with headaches? Magnesium chloride may help as it is thought that magnesium deficiency can cause headaches. Use it in a detox bath. Just remember, you will need to stay in the bath a bit longer. More than 20 minutes is recommended.
Relaxing in a warm bath with magnesium chloride is sure to ease both the body and the mind. Ready to elevate your salt bath experience? Try this recipe and let me know what you think.
Relaxing Salt Bath
1 cup Epsom salt
1 cup Magnesium chloride
1 tablespoon Unscented liquid soap
3 drops Bergamot essential oil
2 drops Frankincense essential oil
1 drop Clary Sage essential oil
In a small glass container mix the liquid soap with essential oils and stir. In a separate bowl, combine the salts. Add the scented liquid soap into the salt mixture and combine. Add the scented salts to your bath and enjoy!
Magnesium Body Mist
Magnesium chloride is great for relaxation but if you are like me, you can’t always take a bath in the evening. If you prefer, you can make your own relaxing magnesium chloride body mist. Although the recommendations that I have researched advise a 1:1 ratio of water to magnesium chloride, I find this amount to produce a very sticky body mist. For a more pleasant experience I recommend a 1:0.5 ratio of water to magnesium chloride. Although this recipe is going to be weaker, it is a nicer feel on the body.
To make your own magnesium chloride body mist, add 100 grams of water, and 50 grams of magnesium chloride to a heat proof measuring cup. Gently warm the mixture on low in a double boiler set up to melt the salt. Stir occasionally. Once the salt is melted, give the mixture a good stir, turn off the heat and let the salt water come back to temperature in the double boiler. Once cooled, add the salt water to a spray bottle. This mixture is best used before bed time.
When using magnesium chloride topically, it is important to choose a high-quality product and follow the recommended dosage instructions. Look for products that use pure, natural magnesium chloride sourced from ancient seabeds, as these are often the most effective and well-tolerated. Additionally, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication.
Other types of Magnesium
There are a number of different kinds of magnesium that provide different benefits for the body, including magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate, magnesium malate, magnesium oxide, magnesium orotate and magnesium threonate. Although magnesium might be a beneficial supplement for you to try, there are also health risks. If you are interested in what magnesium can do for you, talk to your doctor or certified health professional.
Magnesium is a versatile and highly beneficial mineral that can offer a wide range of health benefits. From supporting healthy muscles and joints to improving skin health and overall wellbeing, magnesium might be a great addition to your natural health regimen. Talk to your doctor to find out.
Allergy alert! Some people may be allergic to a type of magnesium. Discuss using magnesium with your doctor before use. It’s also always advisable to do a small patch test for allergies before larger use.
