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Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, as much as 75% of the U.S. adult population could be magnesium deficient? If you experience insomnia, constipation, leg cramps, respiratory issues, fatigue, or general stress and anxiety more often than you’d like, you may have a magnesium deficiency. But the good news is there’s a simple way to increase your magnesium levels with topical Magnesium Oil. The best part is this simple two-ingredient DIY Magnesium Oil can be taken topically even if taking magnesium supplements causes stomach issues for you. Read on to find out more.
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Why is Magnesium So Important?
Magnesium is an essential mineral that is vital to overall health. Every cell in the body needs magnesium in some way, and it is crucial for so many of our bodily functions, including:
Nerve and muscle function
Bone, joint, and teeth health
Blood sugar levels
Heart health
Immune function
Energy production
DNA and RNA synthesis
Antioxidant glutathione synthesis
Sleep quality
Stress reduction
Unfortunately, our modern diet tends to lack the volume of magnesium our bodies need, and it can be challenging to get sufficient magnesium from diet alone. The USDA recommends between 270 and 400 milligrams of magnesium depending on age and sex, with pregnant or nursing females needing the highest quantities.
Why Are We Lacking Magnesium?
There are several reasons why people may be magnesium deficient. Firstly, due to modern commercial farming practices and food processing, the magnesium content of our food has decreased over the past century. Another factor is medications; some medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, antacids, diuretics, calcium supplements, and some antibiotics, can increase the risk of magnesium deficiency. Alcohol, sugar, salt, and caffeine are also prime culprits. Each of these can deplete magnesium stores. Other factors include high stress and chronic diseases such as cystic fibrosis and diabetes, both type 1 and type 2. Lastly, modern water filtration systems remove most of the naturally occurring magnesium found in water.
Benefits of Magnesium Oil
There are thousands of studies on the benefits of using topical magnesium therapy. Please do a quick Google search and research whether this is the right option for you. Below are a few of the top benefits.
Improved Magnesium Levels
One of the immediate benefits of using magnesium oil is the noticeable boost in magnesium levels. This quick absorption can lead to rapid relief from muscle aches and cramps, making it a promising solution for those in need. A clinical trial performed by the University of Cardiff proved that magnesium could be absorbed at a cellular level through transdermal delivery (through the skin). The trial also showed that the skin started absorption with immediate effect and that the action was accelerated compared to oral use.
Reduced Muscle Aches & Cramps
Certain studies indicate magnesium spray may help reduce muscle aches, pains, and spasms, as well as leg cramps and muscle cramps. It has also been shown to be helpful for the pain associated with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and diabetic neuropathy.
Fewer Headaches and Migraines
Research has also found that people who experience migraines tend to have lower levels of magnesium than people who don’t. Some scientists believe that magnesium blocks signals in the brain that lead to migraines. Other research indicated that magnesium stops certain chemicals that cause pain.
Balanced Blood Sugar
While magnesium doesn’t treat diabetes, it can be an important part of a holistic approach to blood sugar management. Too much sugar or high insulin levels depletes our body's magnesium levels. This, in turn, makes it more challenging to balance blood sugar and insulin.
Lower Risk of Blood Pressure and Hypertension
IV magnesium is a standard treatment for acute high blood pressure issues when they present in the ER. While most of us aren’t giving ourselves IV magnesium, there is strong evidence that magnesium can help significantly reduce blood pressure.
Better Quality Sleep
Research suggests that magnesium may have a beneficial effect on GABA receptors in the brain, allowing us to relax into a deeper sleep faster. Magnesium can also help remedy restless legs at night for a better night’s sleep.
Though magnesium has long been used as a sleep aid, it is important to note that a small segment of the population experiences the opposite effect. These people report feeling more alert and experiencing restless sleep. If this is the case for you, try applying magnesium in the morning instead of at night.
How to Make DIY Magnesium Oil
The beauty of magnesium oil is its simplicity. With just a few minutes and basic kitchen skills, you can create your own batch of this beneficial solution. There is no need for complex processes or special equipment.
The Ingredients:
½ cup magnesium flakes (these are the ones we use.)
½ cup distilled water
The Method:
Add your magnesium flakes to a glass jar or bowl.
In a small saucepan, bring your distilled water to a rolling boil.
Carefully pour the boiling water over your magnesium flakes
Stir the mixture well until the flakes are completely dissolved.
Let the mixture cool completely before decanting it into a glass spray bottle.
How To Use Magnesium Oil
If you are just starting out with magnesium spray, use 5- 10 sprays on the arms, legs, feet, or wherever you are experiencing muscle pain or cramping. It may cause a tingling or slight burning sensation the first few times you use it, which is normal. It should fade after a few times, but you can dilute it with more water if it’s bothersome.
Magnesium oil is best applied immediately after a show. Allow the oil to soak into the skin for 10-15 minutes before applying a moisturizer.
A Few Final Notes on Magnesium Oil
Why is this called Magnesium “Oil” when there is no oil in it?
Good question! Magnesium oil is actually a highly saturated mineral solution of magnesium. Its “Oil” name comes from the oily feeling it leaves on the skin when first applied. Even commercial brands use the term.
Why does my magnesium oil cause a burning/tingling sensation?
If you experience a tingling or burning sensation when first using magnesium oil, don't worry. This is a common reaction for those who are highly deficient in magnesium. As your magnesium levels rise, this sensation will diminish. If it's bothersome, you can apply coconut, olive, or castor oil or dilute your solution with a little more water.
Can I add essential oils to this?
Yes! You will often find magnesium oil paired with lavender essential oil to help enhance its relaxation qualities. Since there is no “oil” in magnesium oil, the essential oil may not bind well to the solution, so be sure to use skin-safe essential oil if you are opting to add it to your mixture.
Have you tried magnesium oil to help reduce stress, halt leg cramps, improve sleep, or reduce pain? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below, and as always, until next time,
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