Magnesium oil

 I get a lot of questions pertaining to the different muscle rubs and sprays that I make. Lately  Magnesium oil has been the hot topic. People want to know what it is, what it does, what it is made of and what is the difference between Epsom salt and Magnesium oil. To start, magnesium is one of the minerals thought to help in various conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, migraines, muscle cramps and much more. The premise is that most of us have a magnesium deficiency due to diet and other environmental factors. Epsom salts, being high in magnesium, is one way to help alleviate symptoms, that is why it is often recommended to soak in a warm epsom salt bath. Although Epsom salts (sulphate) contain the same level of trace mineral magnesium as Magnesium oil (chloride), magnesium chloride has a better rate of absorption, by about 35%. It is for this reason that Magnesium oil is the go to for more chronic issues. Magnesium oil is not actually an oil. It is magnesium chloride flakes dissolved in distilled water. It’s called an oil because it does, initially, feel like oil going on, but when it dries it actually leaves a salt-like deposit on the skin. Magnesium oil is commonly found in a spray that you can spritz on the areas that are giving you grief. I typically use it on my calves to help with restless legs. You do want to avoid getting it on sensitive areas as it will cause a temporary itchy burning feeling. It is for that reason that I would refrain from using magnesium chloride flakes in your bath. Best to stick with the epsom salts for that! Magnesium oil can also be found in the form of a lotion which greatly reduces the minor irritation. Whether you choose the spray or the lotion, Magnesium oil is definitely one to keep in your medicine cabinet. From headaches to muscle cramps it is definitely worth a try!