Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in our body and plays a crucial role in over 300 important metabolic reactions. Naturally, lacking this essential nutrient can leave you feeling off and may even lead to more severe health problems over time.
One simple way to boost your body’s magnesium levels is by regularly applying a magnesium-rich lotion. This not only replenishes your magnesium stores but also moisturizes and softens your skin.
Here’s why you should consider using magnesium lotion:
12 Benefits of Applying Magnesium Topically
Dr. Mark Sircus, a magnesium expert and author of “Transdermal Magnesium Therapy,” highlights several benefits of applying magnesium to your skin, including:
– Cellular detoxification
– Decreased inflammation
– Lower blood pressure
– Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes
– Enhanced cognitive function
– Better bone health
– Fewer headaches and migraines
– Improved sleep
– Better heart health
– Less stress and anxiety
– Reduced muscle aches and pains
– Anti-aging effects
Transdermal vs. Dietary Magnesium
Transdermal magnesium therapy involves delivering magnesium through the skin. This concept isn’t new; humans have used topical remedies for ages. Today’s modern examples include nicotine patches for quitting smoking or estrogen patches for menopausal symptoms.
Although we’ve been taught to get our nutrients from food, many people find it challenging to meet their daily magnesium needs through diet alone due to the following reasons:
Why Magnesium Deficiency Is Common
1. Poor Diet Choices: Many Americans consume a diet rich in processed and refined foods, lacking essential nutrients. Even though nuts, seeds, leafy greens, legumes, whole grains, and some fortified foods are rich in magnesium, few people get sufficient amounts from these sources. Research shows that most of the magnesium consumed comes from subpar sources like coffee, milk, bananas, and beer.
2. Depleted Soil Quality: Even health-conscious individuals aiming to meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of magnesium may fall short due to poor food quality. Dr. Shealy, founder of the American Holistic Medical Association, warns that soil in many countries is depleted of magnesium due to inadequate crop rotation and pesticide use.
3. Excess Calcium: Magnesium and calcium work together for optimal health. Today’s diet is often too rich in calcium, which depletes magnesium levels even further. Those who consume a lot of dairy may need more magnesium to balance this ratio.
4. Absorption Issues: The body typically absorbs only 20%-50% of ingested magnesium. Medications like diuretics and antibiotics can disrupt kidney function, causing magnesium to be excreted rather than reabsorbed. Digestive issues, poor gut health, low stomach acid, and certain diseases can also hinder magnesium absorption. Aging, diabetes, alcohol dependence, stress, and illness further reduce absorption levels.
Other Benefits of Transdermal Magnesium
Applying magnesium to your skin is a great way to complement dietary intake. Here are additional reasons to try transdermal magnesium:
1. High Level of Absorption: Magnesium oil has one of the highest absorption rates. A study on transdermal magnesium found that 89% of participants increased their cellular magnesium levels significantly after 12 weeks. These results were achieved faster compared to oral supplements.
2. Targeted Relief: Applying magnesium topically can directly address pain and inflammation in specific areas, such as sore joints or post-workout muscle aches.
3. More Effective than Epsom Salts: While Epsom salts are rich in magnesium, the magnesium chloride used in homemade lotions is more easily absorbed by the body and has longer-lasting effects.
4. Better than Supplements: Transdermal magnesium boosts levels quicker than supplements, which often have low absorption rates. Some supplements may not even contain the claimed nutrients, making topical application a more reliable option.
5. Simple to Use: Making and applying magnesium lotion is easy. One batch can last up to two months in the fridge, offering a convenient way to supplement your dietary magnesium.
How To Make Magnesium Lotion
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup magnesium chloride flakes
– 3 tablespoons boiling water (or pre-made magnesium chloride oil)
– 1/4 cup unrefined coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons emulsifying wax
– 3 tablespoons shea butter
– 10-20 drops of essential oil (optional)
Directions:
1. Dissolve magnesium flakes in boiling water and let it cool. (Skip this step if using pre-made magnesium oil.)
2. In a double boiler, melt coconut oil, wax, and shea butter over medium-low heat. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Combine the oil/wax blend with the dissolved magnesium flakes in a bowl. Mix slowly using an immersion blender. Add essential oils if desired.
4. Let the lotion cool for a few hours, then mix again until thick and creamy. Store in the fridge for up to two months.
How To Use Magnesium Lotion
Start with a small amount and gradually increase as your body adjusts. Apply to any part of the body, especially areas with muscle aches or pains. This lotion can also be mixed with carrier oils for a soothing massage. Allow it to absorb for at least 20 to 30 minutes.
If making your own lotion doesn’t appeal to you, ready-made versions are also available.
