Magnesium is one of the most important minerals needed for the body to function. In fact, it’s the fourth most abundant mineral in the body and is involved in a number of functions across the brain and body.
This mineral helps with energy creation, muscle movements and nervous system regulation as well as exercise performance.
There are heaps of foods that are high in magnesium, but according to Healthline, many people don’t reach the recommended daily intake of the mineral. These food sources include dark chocolate, avocado, nuts, seeds legumes and tofu.
Magnesium supplements are another common way for people to consume the mineral, with many brands on the market selling various capsules and tablets. In recent years, the creation of topical magnesium products have also gained popularity and allows you to deliver magnesium through the skin via a cream or oil product.
These products are said to alleviate pain, inflammation and muscle soreness as they can be applied straight to the affected area.
Does magnesium oil actually work?
Magnesium oil isn’t technically an oil, it’s actually a mixture of magnesium chloride flakes and water, says Healthline. When these two substances are combined, it creates an oily-liquid that is easily absorbed by the body.
Unfortunately, much of the research surrounding magnesium products has centred around oral supplements. While studies show that the benefits of these supplements are significant, little research has been undertaken on oils and cream that are applied topically.
One small study from 2015 asked participants with fibromyalgia to spray magnesium chloride on each limb four times twice a day for one month. Researchers found that the transdermal application of magnesium chloride on the arms and legs reduced symptoms like pain in the fibromyalgia sufferers.
According to Healthline, people with fibromyalgia tend to have low amounts of magnesium in their muscle cells and most magnesium in the body is usually stored in muscle cells or bone.
While more research is needed on the proven efficacy of topical magnesium products, there aren’t really any side effects of applying magnesium oils or creams other than potentially some stinging on the skin.
In the case that you’ve consumed too much of the mineral, you can experience diarrhea, cramps and nausea, says Healthline. But, it’s fairly low-risk to try a topical product in order to see if it helps you with sleep, muscle cramps and inflammation.
Magnesium products to try…
If you’re keen to try a topical product to relieve muscle aches and pain, there are a number to choose from including…
— The Base Collective Magnesium Oil
Formulated to relax tension and encourage the body to relax, this Magnesium Oil by The Base Collective comes in a handy spray bottle, making application super easy. Simply apply two to three sprays where needed, including your legs (to settle restless legs) and on your tummy (to encourage sleep).
— Amazing Oils Magnesium + MSM Gel Roll-On
The Amazing Oils Gel Roll-On features magnesium chloride from Western Australia and is formulated with MSM, naturally occurring sulfur that is fundamental to human biochemistry and is an essential building block for proteins.
Simply roll on to the area where relief is needed.
— Elektra Magnesium Cream
A blend of magnesium chloride, natural butters and oils, this is a super hydrating cream that is beneficial for the skin. Elektra’s Magniesum Cream is great for treating mild forms of eczema and dry skin as well as muscle cramps and spasms.
As this is a cream-based product, it could prove less reactive for those with sensitive skin who don’t react well to pure magnesium oil products.
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