I have been asked so many wonderful questions about magnesium lately.
Do you know the differences between magnesium chloride and magnesium sulfate? Is Epsom salt the same as magnesium sulfate or magnesium chloride? What is the difference? How crucial is magnesium for your optimal health, and why?
Today we’ll begin with how important magnesium is to your body. Magnesium is a central building block for life. And did you know that it is also one of the most common deficiencies among adults? It is important to note that about 70% of the magnesium from the foods you eat and supplements you take, will leave your body within 24 hours.
Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in your body such as:
Maintains normal nerve and muscle function
Regulates blood glucose levels
Keeps a steady heartbeat
Aids in the production of energy and protein
Keeps bones strong
Supports a healthy immune system
Improves quality of sleep
Some signs of a very low magnesium level might be:
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation
Headaches/Migraines
Nighttime leg cramps
Numbness or tingling in the legs or hands
General body weakness
Tremors
Abnormal heart rhythms
Numerous studies involving the benefits of magnesium therapies have been conducted over the years. These studies have found magnesium to be beneficial to everything from skin health to diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure).
While magnesium is an important part of a balanced diet, absorbing the mineral transdermally is a great way to directly benefit its’ soothing properties. Both magnesium sulfate and magnesium chloride can be absorbed in your body via a bath, cream, or a spray for example.
Magnesium cream can be rubbed on areas of discomfort. An evening ritual of spraying magnesium spray on the soles of your feet before bedtime is an act of self-love. Our poor feet work so hard for us everyday! Love them back by taking good care of them. I’ve included a simple magnesium spray recipe in this post for you.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MAGNESIUM SULFATE AND MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE
Now, let’s consider the differences between magnesium sulfate (magnesium sulphate) and magnesium chloride. Simply put, they are made up of different chemicals. Both are highly soluble in water and easily absorbed in your body through your skin.
Magnesium sulfate salts also known as Epsom salt can be purchased at your local grocery store, pharmacy or online.
Interesting fact: Did you know that the name Epsom salt came from the town, Epsom, in England? This town was the first to discover this amazing mineral centuries ago. It is typically used in a warm bath to relieve tired, achy muscles and joints. But it is very important to note that some of the Epsom salts or magnesium sulfate and magnesium chloride on the market can be synthetic - meaning that they are man-made and not naturally derived. Know where the mineral came from and how it was mined. While some Epsom salts are synthetically made, others can be contaminated with pollutants and contain aluminum and mercury. We do not want to absorb any of these in our bodies. Remember that your skin is the largest organ in your body.
Magnesium chloride is immensely beneficial for detoxifying the skin and revitalizing muscles after exertion. Magnesium chloride will also stay in the body longer than magnesium sulfate.
Magnesium chloride flakes have a higher bioavailability than magnesium sulfate meaning that the molecular structure of magnesium chloride flakes are absorbed much easier into the body.
What you should know about taking a Magnesium Bath:
How often: 2-3 times per week is recommended
How much: The amount could vary per product, so it is very important to read the directions. Most directions will instruct you to use between ½ to 1-½ cups per bath.
Avoid urinary tract infections by not adding soap or fragrances to your bath water.
SIMPLE MAGNESIUM SPRAY RECIPE
INGREDIENTS
½ cup magnesium chloride flakes
½ cup distilled water
DIRECTIONS
Bring the distilled water to a boil. Place magnesium chloride flakes in a glass bowl.
Carefully pour the boiling water over the flakes and stir until completely dissolved.
Cool before adding to a spray bottle.
You will find the use of a funnel very helpful.
This would make a wonderful gift for yourself and anyone in your life. Spread the love by attaching a pretty bow and the recipe so that they can continue to enjoy! If you decide to give as gifts (and I hope you do!), be sure not to purchase the magnesium chloride in bulk. Mg chloride is hygroscopic which means that it draws in water so it will turn to liquid if it sits too long.
IMPORTANT: Do not add essential oils to this spray. It could cause you to slip when sprayed on the bottom of your feet.take a Magnesium bath? Taking a Magnesium Bath 2-3 times per week is recommended.
How much Epsom Salt should you put in your bathtub? This will depend on the product you are using. Always read the instructions! Most Magnesium flakes and salts can recommend anywhere between ½ a cup to 2 cups into your tub.