The Ultimate Guide to Shopping Magnesium!

When it comes to Magnesium, I just can't get enough!

So what is Magnesium?

Found throughout the body, Magnesium ions help to regulate over 300 biochemical reactions. These enzyme co-factors play a vital role in bodily functions such as regulating blood pressure, monitoring muscle and nerve functions and synthesising proteins. Magnesium helps with energy production, mineral balance and building new cells which are essential for a healthy body! With an almost endless list of list of benefits, Magnesium even helps to regulate sleep and assist with common issues including bruising and itching!

The Magnesium found in skincare products and health supplements are typically sourced from salt springs or salt water. For example Amazing Oils source their Magnesium from salt lakes in Western Australia and Elektra Magnesium source theirs from Tibetan salt waters found 3,200m above sea level in the Tibetan Plateau. Green Nutritionals Marine Magnesium on the other hand, is sourced from the mineral rich Irish Atlantic coast!

What is the difference between Magnesium and Epsom salts?

A common misconception is that Magnesium salts and Epsom salts are the same thing! Although they appear similar, Magnesium flakes (Magnesium Chloride) have a different molecular structure and are much more easily absorbed by the body. Epsom salts on the other hand look more like regular salts. Although they provide relaxing benefits when added to the bath, like Magnesium Chloride, Epsom salts may dry out the skin overtime due to their sulfate content! Find out more about the the difference between Magnesium and Epsom. According to Amazing Oils, Epsom salts (Magnesium Sulphates) molecules are much larger and more suited for detoxification. Magnesium Chloride is a completely natural element so these Magnesium flakes are easily absorbed.

For this guide I have gone through the top 10 most common issues we encounter in everyday life and which magnesium products can be used to help:

How Magnesium can help with tired muscles

One of the most common uses for Magnesium is reducing general aches and pains in the body such as tired muscles after a workout or big day at work! Bath flakes are a great choice for relaxing muscles and relieving tension, particularly after exercising! Magnesium bath flakes or Epsom salts can be used.

The Life Basics Magnesium Chloride are a cost effective, bulk buy. Or if you prefer a scented option the Evodia EpZen Premium Magnesium Bath Crystals - Relax is actually a blend of Magnesium Sulphate and the pure essential oils of Rosewood, Ylang Ylang, Rose Geranium and Frankincense. Evodia also offer a Soothe version, with extracts of Lavender, Cedarwood, Sweet Birch, Clary Sage and Geranium which has a more uplifting and invigorating scent. If you want to try a magnesium chloride version, also with essential oils, try the Caim and Able brand which has bath salts, scrub and sprays in 3 delicious scents.

If you don't have a bath you can try a foot bath, or a handy magnesium spray like the Elektra Magnesium Oil Spritz which can be applied on the go, or when you're out of the house!

How Magnesium can help with your General Wellbeing!

As the body can't make its own magnesium, it's important to ensure that you are getting enough, particularly during times of high stress or strain. Magnesium assists in the maintenance of general health and wellbeing in a variety of ways, including boosting energy production, supporting healthy muscle and nerve function, and even with reducing the frequency of migraines and lessening the symptoms of PMS.

The Ethical Nutrients Mega Magnesium is a great raspberry flavoured option that delivers easily absorbed, high strength magnesium... without any aftertaste! This powder is ideal during times of stress, to support aches and pains, increase energy production and reduce menstrual pain and cramping. Mega Magnesium can also help support healthy muscle and nerve function and is formulated for maximum nutritional impact.

Always read the label. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare practitioner. Warning - Stop taking this medication if you experience tingling, burning or numbness and see your healthcare practitioner as soon as possible. [Contains vitamin B6]. Warning - this medication may be dangerous when used in large amounts or for a long time. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

The Elektra Magnesium Cream (which comes in three scents; Herbal, Island Spice and Citrus) contains rich butters for easy absorption. One dessertspoon of this cream provides 250-300mg of elemental magnesium ions on your skin! It's simple alternatives to your daily routine that can benefit your overall health and wellbeing. Easy!

Always read the label, and if symptoms persist consult your healthcare practitioner.Contains Potassium sorbate.

How Magnesium can help with Restless Legs!

Restless legs can affect you both day and night, even disturbing your sleep.
Amazing Oils Organic Magnesium Pro was scientifically formulated as a new pain relief spray but has many other benefits including helping to reduce muscle cramping and mild leg spasms where dietary magnesium is insufficient and to lessen the symptoms of mild nerve pain/neuralgia.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.

How Magnesium can boost your Energy levels?

One of the most amazing features of Magnesium is that it can both relax you and give you energy! Recently I caught up with the lovely ladies from Amazing Oils who answered the common question... how does this work?! According to Amazing Oils, when using magnesium for sleep and relaxation, you are targeting the nervous system. So at night the best place to apply magnesium is the lower back, behind the knees and the tops of your feet, following the sciatic nerve. I love the Elektra Magnesium Cream - Citrus which is also great for general wellbeing (see above). It is made with a unique formulation of 15% potent, food grade magnesium chloride and natural butters and oils.For an instant burst of energy, you can apply magnesium to the pulse points including on the wrists, elbows, neck and shoulders!

A great way to give yourself a boost of energy throughout the day is to use a spray or roll on gel that you can keep at your desk or in your handbag! The Amazing Oils Roll-On Organic Magnesium Gel is fantastic as it's odourless and non oily. Simply roll it over the pulse point areas mentioned. Another handy option for on the go, is the Elektra Magnesium Oil Spritz which you spray on! If you want a scented spray version then you can't go past the Caim & Able sprays which come in Lavender & Rosemary, Coconut & Lime or Rose & Frankincense.

How Magnesium can help Kids to Sleep!

All kids can benefit from routine especially when winding down at the end of a hectic day. With growing pains and restlessness at night, kids can most definitely benefit from the relaxing nature of a regular warm bath with a secret ingredient: magnesium. If your kids are experiencing growing pains, we recommend giving them a magnesium bath about half an hour before bed as a way to soothe and prevent these unwelcome night time interruptions. When they appear you can also apply a spray or cream to the affected area to help ease the pain .

More directly, applying magnesium cream between the shoulder blades, which is close to the heart, allows them to relax and get ready for a good night's sleep. I love the Elektra Magnesium Cream - Citrus which is made with a unique formulation of 15% potent, food grade magnesium chloride and natural butters and oils.

How Magnesium can help with Migraines!

Magnesium can help to alleviate the tension caused by migraines. The best place to apply magnesium is at the back of the neck where it meets the skull. Headaches are actually caused by the constriction of the cardiovascular system. Apply some magnesium spray to the back of the neck in the mornings as a preventative. If you feel a headache coming on, simply spray on to any areas of tension.

One of my favourite sprays for this is Amazing Oils Organic Magnesium Pro which helps to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine and tension headaches.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.

How Magnesium can help with sensitive Skin Conditions!

If you have mildly problematic or sensitive skin, then you may benefit from using magnesium cream as it can help to soothe and relieve the symptoms of common dry skin conditions such as mild forms of eczema. I use Elektra Magnesium cream all over my face and body daily! Another great way to soothe sensitive and dry skin is to have regular magnesium baths as the magnesium actually helps hydrate the skin.

If you have unwanted cellulite, you can try the Vanessa Megan Love Scrub® Body Salt Scrub, as it exfoliates the skin thereby helping to stimulate blood flow and circulation. It doesn't hurt that it also smells amazing with extracts of Mandarin, Lavender and Rosemary and contains actual organic rose petals.

How Magnesium can help with Periods and Menopause

From birth through menopause, Magnesium can make your life more comfortable. To help alleviate any spikes in body temperature (particularly during menopause), magnesium works to regulate temperature levels overnight. According to Amazing Oils, the best way to achieve this is to apply a spray behind the knees and at the tops of the feet about 15 minutes before bed. Magnesium can also help alleviate period pain. Throw some magnesium flakes into a warm bath or apply the cream over the lower abdomen.

How Magnesium can help with Sleeping!

If you're having trouble falling asleep or relaxing at night, you guessed it... get into the routine of having a warm bath every night before bed! If you do not have a bath, try a Magnesium foot bath! It's a great way to increase your magnesium levels and promote relaxation. Simply place a heaped teaspoon of Magnesium flakes into a hot bucket of water and soak your feet for 20-30 minutes. To avoid wastage, dilute the leftover water and pour over your garden! An ultra relaxing choice for your foot soak is the Caim & Able PROTECT Magnesium Bath Salts - Lavender & Rosemary which contains the uplifting and relaxing aroma of Lavender and Rosemary!

According to Amazing Oils, you can apply Magnesium whenever you like! Applying Magnesium doesn't affect sun exposure and can be used both day and night. If you are someone who struggles with sleep however, the best place to apply Magnesium is the lower half of the body. If you apply to the chest area or above, it can actually stimulate brain activity!

Other common Magnesium FAQs

Should you rinse your kids off after a magnesium bath?
Elektra Magnesium recommends leaving the magnesium on the skin to absorb all of the benefits! If your kids get a tingling sensation from applying oils or sprays, then you can wash off afterwards to avoid the uncomfortable feeling. However, this does mean that not all of the magnesium goodness will be absorbed!

How much magnesium should you put in a baby bath?
According to Amazing Oils, place approx 1/2 to 1 teaspoon magnesium into their bath water. This will relax both the muscular and nervous systems to allow your little ones to drift off to sleep easier!

Which skin conditions can magnesium creams help treat?
Magnesium creams can be used all over the body and face as they're highly moisturising and won't clog your pores! According to Elektra Magnesium, their magnesium cream can be used to treat skin conditions including mild forms of dermatitis, acne and eczema as well as minor cuts, abrasions and bruises. To receive the most out of your treatment, remember to use it every day.

If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare practitioner. Always read the label. Use only as directed.

To learn more about Magnesium creams, read my blog post all about them!