What is magnesium?
Magnesium ions are found throughout the human body and help regulate over 300 biochemical reactions. Magnesium is available as an oral supplement as well as relaxing bath flakes and topical creams and gels.
What does magnesium do?
Magnesium ions throughout the body help regulate biochemical reactions. They act as enzyme co-factors, which means they play a vital role in reducing, controlling and moderating cellular oxidative damage. Magnesium is also found in plants. It is actually the organising atom in Chlorophyll, which converts the sun's rays to energy.
Difference between epsom salts and magnesium salts
Magnesium flakes (magnesium chloride) are much more easily absorbed into the skin than epsom salts, as they have a different molecular structure. Magnesium salts can be more effective and are often recommended to people who have magnesium deficiencies.
Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) look a lot like regular salts and also are of benefit to the body when added to a bath for relaxing muscles and cramps after a long day or a workout.
What are the benefits of Magnesium?
Here are the benefits of Magnesium Cream alone!
™ Helps maintain general wellbeing
™ General mild stress relief: When we are stressed our magnesium levels may dip, so it’s important to keep our magnesium levels up. Magnesium helps relieve nervous tension and mild anxiety.
If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare practitioner.
™ Soothe muscle tension: Magnesium can be used to relieve muscle tension including spasm and cramps.
™ Treatment of dry skin conditions such as mild forms of acne, eczema and dermatitis.
™ Regulate muscle functioning: Magnesium salts are said to also help balance electrolytes in the body, which regulates functioning of muscles and nerves [1].
™ Help to manage Migraines: As headaches can be caused by cardiovascular constriction, by relaxing the right muscles Magnesium can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
™ Helps you sleep: If you are magnesium deficient you may have trouble sleeping which can lead to a whole host of health issues [4]. Magnesium can help promote a restful night sleep.
™ Treatment of minor skin disorders and wounds such as cuts, abrasions and scratches. Useful to keep a tube of cream in your first aid box!
Topical application of magnesium may be an efficient way of topping up magnesium levels as well as contributing to a range of cosmetic benefits such as hydration and smooth skin. I have found a whole range of magnesium products you can easily work into your daily routine.
What are the different ways to take magnesium?
Magnesium bath flakes
Magnesium flakes are arguably the most common magnesium product out there! We have some amazing magnesium flakes here on Nourished Life including the Elektra Magnesium Mineral Salt Flakes. Simply dissolve 1/2 cup - 1 cup or more of the Magnesium Flakes into a warm bath, then let soak into clean skin for 20 minutes or more. For a foot bath, all you need is a tablespoon to get your magnesium fix. These flakes are easily absorbed into the skin and a great stress reliever after a long day. Soaking in magnesium flakes is a calming way to boost magnesium levels while treating dry skin.
The Caim & Able Bath Salts come in 3 amazing varieties all scented with just pure essential oils. Choose from Nourish - Coconut & Lime; Nurture - Rose & Frankincense; or Protect - Lavender & Rosemary depending on your mood. This Aussie brand sources their magnesium from the Dead Sea and donates 25% of their profits to a women's domestic violence charity.
Life Basics also has a great budget sized bucket of magnesium flakes, which is perfect if you're a regular bath user. Simply add 1 cup into your warm bath water. It’s recommended that you soak for at least 20 minutes to allow your body to absorb as much magnesium as it can!
Epsom Salts
These Pure Premium Magnesium Bath Crystals from EpZen are ideal for thoe with sensitive skin as they are unscented. Made from laboratory tested magnesium sulphate, these are a wonderful addition to the bath for relaxing after a long day at work.
Magnesium sprays
If you’re pressed for time, then a magnesium spray is the perfect solution! The Eco. Recovery Magnesium Spray is ideal for using after a hard workout at the gym because it works to help relax any tension. As magnesium can help to aid joint aches and pains, it’s great to keep in your bag for any pain relief throughout the day too!
If you’re after a magnesium spray that smells delicious, then you can’t go past the Caim & Able Magnesium Spray which are available in 3 amazing fragrances: Lavender & Rosemary, Coconut & Lime and Rose & Frankincense - or unscented if you prefer; and can either be left on the skin after applying, or washed off after 20 minutes. Topical magnesium sprays can work to promote relaxation, and can be applied to the base of the neck or anywhere else on the body [4]. Despite this spray’s small size, if used daily it will last you up to three months!
Magnesium gels
Lucky last is magnesium gel! This roll on gel from Amazing Oils is the perfect size to keep in your handbag or on your desk. If you’re suffering from any sports injuries, muscle tension, restless legs or even insomnia, simply roll onto the affected area [4].
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, please consult your healthcare practitioner. Magnesium cream contains Sorbates.
