A magnesium deficiency can sneak up on you and, unfortunately, you’re probably not getting enough through your diet.
Fear not: a magnesium bath can make a huge difference. As a bonus, your muscles and skin will thank you, too!
Many people might not realize that magnesium salts and Epsom salts are very similar but slightly different – but which is right for you?
The Silent Dangers of a Magnesium Deficiency
Studies show that 75% of Americans aren’t meeting their daily magnesium intake requirements. The rest of the developed world probably isn’t doing much better.
Why? Well, it’s hard to get magnesium through diet alone unless you eat a lot of seeds and nuts. But there’s a catch 22: these foods are also often high in fat so that makes it difficult to get enough of their valuable magnesium.
Although severe magnesium deficiencies are rare, symptoms that you’re lacking this vital nutrient may include:
- Muscle twitches and cramps
- Seizures and convulsions
- Apathy or feeling numb
- Nerve dysfunction
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression
- Osteoporosis
- Muscle weakness and fatigue
- High blood pressure
- Asthma
- Heart palpitations or an irregular beat
The Benefits of a Magnesium Bath Routine
Unlike a lot of other nutrients, magnesium can easily be absorbed through the skin.
This vital mineral plays an important role in the body regulating blood pressure, heartbeat, nerve functions, protein synthesis, and muscle function. Plus, magnesium plays an important role in vitamin D and calcium synthesis in the body – so it’s very important in terms of bone health.
Adding a magnesium bath to your nightly routine is a great way to decompress at the end of the day – in more ways than one. Meeting your daily magnesium intake requirements with a relaxing bath comes with many benefits such as:
- Reduced stress levels
- Relief from muscle pain, tension, and cramps
- Skin detoxification – glowing skin!
- Constipation relief and healthy digestion
- A healthy heart
- Reduced inflammation
Don’t forget to add a few drops of some potent essential oils to your bath. Our Face Oil for Dry Skin make a great combination for reducing stress and healing the skin.
The Difference Between Magnesium Flakes vs. Epsom Salt
Although they’re similar, magnesium flakes (magnesium chloride) and Epsom salts are slightly different and affect your body in unique ways.
- Magnesium Chloride: If you look for a magnesium supplement, you’ll find magnesium chloride inside it. Using this substance for your bath will likely produce a more intense effect because it’s easier for the body to absorb and use in all the right ways. Just don’t eat it.
- Magnesium Sulphate: This is what you know as Epsom salts. It’s just a little different than magnesium chloride in that your body might not absorb it quite as rapidly and efficiently. Unlike magnesium chloride, however, this is safe to ingest for constipation and other issues when the product is of food-grade quality.
Now you’re all set to enjoy your first magnesium bath – just add some essential oils and let the stress melt away. Explore our Essential Oil Blends to find the right one for you!