How Are Magnesium Flakes Different to Epsom Salts?

When it comes to soaking in a warm Magnesium bath, there may be some confusion surrounding the difference between Epsom salts and Magnesium Flakes! You may have noticed they look the same, and you may have also noticed that Espom salts are often much cheaper. The main difference is that Epsom salts are Magnesium Sulfate, and Magnesium flakes are Magnesium Chloride.

What is Magnesium?

Magnesium is a common and essential mineral found in the body, that the body can't produce itself, so we need to ensure that we are receiving enough. Some signs of Magnesium deficiency include fatigue and muscle cramps.

What are the Benefits of Magnesium?

Magnesium Chloride has a long list of benefits, from helping to manage cramps, migraines and stress to promoting a restful night's sleep. Cosmetically, despite being commonly called a form of salt, Magnesium Chloride can actually be hydrating for the skin; nourishing sensitive and dry skin.

Food grade Magnesium flakes you can add to your bath and also drink

Elektra Magnesium Mineral Salt Flakes (food grade)
Naturally evaporated from Tibetan salt water, the Elektra Magnesium Mineral Salt Flakes $12.10, are a wonderful addition to your daily bath (I also really enjoy adding them to my foot bath). These flakes are actually food grade so I add 4-5 little flakes to 1.25l of purified water and sip throughout the day. I find it makes the water taste beautiful and soft.

Amazing Oils Magnesium Bath Flakes
Sourced from salt lakes in WA, the Amazing Oils Magnesium Bath Flakes $24.95, are made from pure Magnesium Chloride which is wonderful for adding to the bath to promote soft, supple skin and relaxation. I add these to my kids' nice warm bath to relax them before bed. To use, dissolve ½ - 1 cup of flakes into your bath and enjoy!

What are the benefits of Magnesium Sulfate?

Magnesium Sulfate, commonly known as Epsom Salts are generally cheaper than Magnesium Salts and also provide benefits. Epsom salt baths are very relaxing and are known to detox the body. I personally love the Evodia EpZen Premium Magnesium Bath Crystals in their "Relax"blend which smells nice and feminine with essential oils of Rosewood, Ylang Ylang, Rose Geranium, Frankincense and May Chang.

If you're wanting to try the detoxifying benefits of Epsom salts without the added natural fragrances, the Power Bodycare Epzen Magnesium Bath Crystals - Pure are great option. Made with Magnesium Sulphate, these crystals are
high quality and great in a bath for relaxing muscles after a tough workout, as well as helping to ease general aches and sore muscles. They also come in two other scents; Power Bodycare Epzem Magnesium Bath Crystals - Detox and Power Bodycare Epzen Magnesium Bath Crystals - Relax! To use, add two cups to your bath.