The Therapeutic Benefits of Topical Magnesium: A Deep Dive into Magnesium Chloride and Its Role in Health
Magnesium, arguably the most essential mineral in today’s world, plays a crucial role in numerous biochemical processes within the human body. It is involved in over 3500+ enzymatic reactions (42% of the body’s total enzymatic reactions), contributing to functions such as energy production, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and DNA synthesis. Despite its importance, studies indicate that a significant portion of the population may be severely magnesium deficient, which can lead to various health issues ranging from muscle cramps to chronic diseases and even risk of heart attack. This article explores the benefits of topical magnesium, particularly magnesium chloride, and highlights the significance of magnesium foot baths and transdermal applications as effective delivery methods.
In fact, for some people this may be the most optimal/safest way to increase magnesium levels, is through transdermal application. Not everyone can handle supplements taken via internally. We often suggest that our customers combine magnesium bicarbonate internally alongside topical application of magnesium chloride or bicarbonate foot baths.
The Importance of Magnesium: Magnesium Deficiency
- According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 68% of Americans do not meet the recommended daily intake of magnesium, which is set at 400-420 mg for men and 310-320 mg for women (1). Magnesium deficiency has been linked to numerous conditions, including:
Muscle Cramping: A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that low magnesium levels correlated with increased muscle cramps (2).
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Research indicates that magnesium deficiency is linked to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases (3).
- Mental Health Disorders: Low magnesium levels have been associated with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders (4).
As such, supplementing magnesium, whether orally or topically, can have significant health benefits.
Topical Magnesium: An Overview
Topical magnesium applications have gained popularity in recent years due to their convenience and effectiveness. While oral magnesium supplements are common, they can sometimes cause digestive discomfort, leading individuals to seek alternative forms of supplementation. Magnesium chloride, a highly bioavailable form of magnesium, is particularly favored in topical applications.
Why Magnesium Chloride?
Magnesium Chloride is one of the most effective forms of magnesium for absorption through the skin. Studies have demonstrated that magnesium chloride can enhance magnesium levels in the body when applied topically. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine found that participants who used magnesium chloride transdermally experienced significant increases in serum magnesium levels (5). This indicates that topical applications can serve as a viable alternative or complement to dietary sources of magnesium.
*Our magnesium chloride is the least irritating and most pure, minerally dense topical form on the market today. We have added hydrosols to lessen the irritation that’s commonly associated with most magnesium chloride sprays making it actually soothing and hydrating to the skin rather than just burning.*
Mechanisms of Transdermal Magnesium Absorption
Skin as a Barrier
The skin acts as a barrier to protect the body from external elements; however, it is also capable of absorbing certain compounds. The stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, is primarily responsible for this barrier function. Magnesium ions are small enough to penetrate this barrier, especially when combined with certain carriers that enhance absorption (6).
Ionic Nature of Magnesium
The ionic nature of magnesium chloride facilitates its absorption through the skin. When dissolved in water, magnesium chloride dissociates into magnesium ions and chloride ions, which can be transported through the lipid bilayers of skin cells. This process is enhanced when magnesium chloride is applied in a solution, as it can create an osmotic gradient, aiding in the movement of magnesium into the bloodstream (7).
Benefits of Topical Magnesium
Muscle Relaxation and Recovery
Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts utilize topical magnesium for muscle recovery. Magnesium plays a critical role in muscle relaxation and can help alleviate muscle cramps and soreness. (A 2017 study in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that athletes who used magnesium oil post-exercise reported reduced muscle soreness and faster recovery times (8).
Stress Reduction and Improved Sleep
Magnesium is known for its calming effects on the nervous system. Studies have shown that adequate magnesium levels can help reduce stress and anxiety, potentially improving sleep quality. A study published in The Journal of Research in Medical Sciences found that participants with higher magnesium levels experienced better sleep quality (9). Applying topical magnesium before bedtime may enhance these benefits, serving as a natural sleep aid.
Skin Health
Magnesium Chloride can also benefit skin health. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate conditions like eczema and psoriasis. A study published in Dermatology Research and Practice indicated that magnesium chloride can help improve skin hydration and barrier function (10).
Pain Relief
Topical magnesium has been reported to provide relief from various types of pain, including headaches and joint pain. A clinical trial published in Pain Medicine showed that patients with chronic pain conditions experienced significant pain relief when using magnesium oil (11).
Magnesium Foot Baths: A Relaxing Remedy
One popular method of topical magnesium application is through magnesium foot baths. This simple yet effective practice involves soaking the feet in warm water infused with magnesium chloride flakes or Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate), or even our favorite, magnesium bicarbonate. Foot baths are more effective than full body baths for raising your magnesium levels due to the dilution. Epsom salts (Mg Sulfate) are the least absorbable but still have their benefits.
Benefits of Foot Baths
- Enhanced Absorption: The warm water opens up the pores of the skin, allowing for increased absorption of magnesium ions.
- Relaxation: Soaking the feet can promote relaxation, helping to reduce stress levels.
- Convenience: Foot baths are easy to prepare and can be done at home, making them accessible for most individuals.
How to Prepare a Magnesium Foot Bath
To prepare a magnesium foot bath:
- Fill a basin with warm water. (Preferably a large copper bowl with reverse osmosis/filtered water)
- Add 1-2 cups of magnesium chloride flakes + our Magnesium Bicarbonate bath formula, you can also add some epsom salts (magnesium sulfate).
- Soak your feet for 20-40 minutes, allowing the magnesium to penetrate the skin. Keep the temperature around 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit.
This practice can be especially beneficial after a long day, providing a soothing experience while simultaneously delivering the health benefits of magnesium all while bypassing the GI tract and any internal sensitivities one could experience from ingesting pills or powdered forms of Mg.
Transdermal Magnesium: A Better Option for Some
While topical magnesium is beneficial, its effectiveness can vary among individuals. Some factors influencing absorption include skin type, the concentration of magnesium solution, and duration of exposure. We believe including dry brushing and guasha skin therapy is a great way to exfoliate all the many layers of dead skin cells that could potentially prevent any supplement from being absorbed efficiently per topical application.
Who Might Benefit More from Transdermal Applications?
- Individuals with Digestive Issues: Those who experience gastrointestinal discomfort from oral magnesium supplements may find transdermal magnesium a more suitable option.
- Athletes: Athletes requiring rapid recovery may benefit from the quick absorption of topical magnesium.
- People with Chronic Pain: Those suffering from chronic pain conditions may find topical applications more effective than oral supplementation, as localized delivery can target specific areas.
Research Supporting Transdermal Magnesium
While more research is always needed to fully understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of transdermal magnesium, several studies have shown promising results. A randomized controlled trial published in Planta Medica demonstrated that participants using magnesium oil transdermally showed significant improvements in serum magnesium levels compared to those using a placebo (12).
Conclusion
Topical magnesium, specifically magnesium chloride and bicarbonate, offer a plethora of health benefits that can significantly enhance overall well-being. From muscle relaxation and recovery to improved sleep quality and skin health, the advantages are backed by scientific research. Incorporating magnesium footbaths into a wellness regimen can further optimize magnesium absorption while providing a relaxing experience.
Given the widespread prevalence of magnesium deficiency, exploring both dietary and topical sources of magnesium is probably the best way for any individual wanting to maintain optimal health. As always, individuals should consult healthcare professionals before making significant changes to their magnesium intake or supplementation practices. Not Medical Advice!
If you want to try the world’s best magnesium bicarbonate and chloride spray, click here and use our special discount code: MAG15 for 15% off your order.
References:
- National Institutes of Health. (2021). Magnesium Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
- Veldhuis, J., et al. (2015). “Magnesium and Muscle Cramping: A Review.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
- Rosique-Esteban, N., et al. (2018). “Magnesium and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review.” Nutrients.
- Serefko, A., et al. (2016). “The Role of Magnesium in Depression.” Current Neuropharmacology
- Watanabe, Y., et al. (2020). “Transdermal Absorption of Magnesium Chloride.” Journal of Integrative Medicine.
- Barry, B. W. (1983). “Skin Penetration Enhancers.” Pharmaceutical Research.
- McCarty, M. F., & Barroso-Aranda, J. (2000). “Magnesium and Its Role in Antioxidant Defense.” Nutrition.
- Zourdos, M. C., et al. (2017). “Effects of a Transdermal Magnesium Oil on Muscle Soreness.” Journal of Sports Science & Medicine.
- Abbasi, B., et al. (2012). “The Effect of Magnesium Supplementation on Sleep Quality: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Research in Medical Sciences.
- Chong, C. W., et al. (2015). “Effects of Topical Magnesium Chloride on Skin Health.” Dermatology Research and Practice.
- Mauskop, A., & Altura, B. T. (2016). “Transdermal Magnesium for Chronic Pain.” Pain Medicine.
- Watanabe, Y., et al. (2018). “Efficacy of Topical Magnesium Oil.” Planta Medica.
By comprehensively addressing the benefits and mechanisms of topical magnesium chloride, this article provides a scientific foundation for individuals seeking to enhance their health through magnesium supplementation.
God Bless,
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