Magnesium plays a fascinating, yet sometimes overlooked, role in nutrition. It is the 11th most abundant element by mass in the human body and is considered essential to all cells of all known living organisms! Hundreds of enzymes require magnesium ions for their catalytic action.
Although human magnesium deficiency is “officially” considered uncommon (curiously), it is reported that only 32% of people in the USA have enough magnesium intake to meet the RDA. Natural magnesium in the soil is becoming depleted, reportedly due to over-farming and pesticide use. Pesticides, according to some, kill the microorganisms in the soil which chelate the minerals from the rocks into a bioavailable form.
Deficiency in magnesium has been linked to osteoporosis, asthma, and diabetes. Magnesium also plays a role in the prevention of heart attack, stroke, and many other scenarios.
If you are not aware of the use of magnesium oil (typically made with magnesium chloride), you may not know that magnesium can be absorbed through the skin. This, it is claimed, allows for its rapid absorption by cells. Swimming in the ocean will also, it is said, give you some magnesium.
I just discovered a fantastic tutorial for making your own homemade magnesium oil. It’s unbelievably simple and tells you not only how to make it but how to apply it and what to expect.
Users of this product, as can be seen from the comments, are raving about the benefits of this simple application of magnesium to the skin. They are claiming significantly reduced tiredness, fewer aches, and pains upon waking in the morning – and reduced stress! I need some of this stuff. Sufficiently impressed, I had to share the tutorial with you.
How to Use Magnesium Oil :
How to Use Magnesium Oil
Spray on arms, legs, and stomach daily. I use 10-20 sprays per day. It will tingle on the skin the first few times it is used, and this is normal. It should fade after a few applications, but you can dilute with more water if it bothers you too much.
After applying, leave on the skin or wash off after 20-30 minutes. I usually apply after a shower and then use coconut oil or a lotion bar to moisturize about 5 minutes later. If the sticky feel on your skin bothers you, try applying at night before bed when you won’t notice it as much or before showering and rinse off.
DIY Magnesium Oil Spray Recipe
When I don’t have magnesium oil on hand I’ve been known to make it! Try this easy recipe:
Ingredients
1/2 cup magnesium chloride flakes
1/2 cup distilled water
a glass bowl or glass measuring cup
a glass spray bottle (this is the one in the picture above)
Instructions
Boil the distilled water. It is important to use distilled to extend the shelf life of the mixture.
Place the magnesium chloride flakes in the glass bowl or measuring cup and pour the boiling water over it.
Stir well until completely dissolved. Let cool completely and store in the spray bottle. It can be stored at room temperature for at least six months. I keep in my bathroom to use daily.
Note: I prefer to use magnesium oil before bedtime and often add 10 drops of lavender essential oil to the mixture for scent and relaxation.