Magnesium Flakes versus Epsom Salts: which magnesium bath soak is more effective?

(3 ½ minute read)

When it comes to magnesium bath soaks, the words magnesium flakes and epsom salts are often used interchangeably, but they do have different properties and one may be more effective for your needs than the other.

Benefits of Magnesium generally

Magnesium is an essential mineral for our bodies and plays a role in more than 300 enzyme reactions. It helps muscles and nerves to function properly, helps keep blood sugar and blood pressure at the right levels, supports the immune system and is also used to make protein, bone and DNA. ¹

Magnesium flakes and Epsom salts, both used in magnesium baths, are not the same (image souce: Canva)

Benefits of Magnesium baths

While we can get magnesium from certain foods and beverages, another way to supplement the level of magnesium in our bodies is through topical application. Magnesium bath soaks are also a great way to increase magnesium levels in our bodies through dermal absorption, while unwinding and relaxing tired muscles after physical activity or at the end of a long day.

Two common forms of magnesium bath soaks are Magnesium flakes and Epsom salts. While they may seem like the same thing, there are some differences, including:

• Magnesium flakes are made from magnesium chloride whereas Epsom salts are made from magnesium sulphate
• Magnesium chloride is a naturally occurring compound found and produced worldwide and, while Magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts) is also naturally occurring, the majority is synthetically manufactured (man made) for the mass market
• Magnesium chloride has a smaller molecular structure than magnesium sulphate which makes it more easily absorbed
• Magnesium chloride provides more concentrated bio-available magnesium than Magnesium sulphate, making it 5 x more powerful than Epsom salts

Magnesium baths have long been used in many ancient therapies around the world and can be a very effective way to relax both body and spirit and a great way to prepare yourself for sleep. Whether you choose salt flakes made from magnesium chloride or magnesium sulphate (epsom) is really a personal choice. Amazing Oils Magnesium Daily Bath Flakes are the perfect addition to a warm, relaxing bath just before bed. If you're after a relaxing magnesium bath that also soothes your senses, the Summer Salt Body Salt Soak with Lavender & Sweet Orange is simply divine.

Other forms of topical magnesium application

Research shows that magnesium taken orally via tablets or in liquid form can be compromised by our digestive system, thus limiting the amount of active magnesium being absorbed by our bodies. ²

Apart from magnesium baths, another way to obtain the benefits of magnesium through topical application is to apply a magnesium oil spray or gel directly onto the skin. These products can help improve your magnesium levels and may also assist with ailments commonly associated with magnesium deficiencies. Topical application of magnesium can help improve sleep quality, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Products like the Amazing Oils Fix My Face Moisturiser and Body Repair Lotion can even improve skin health. ²

¹ healthdirect.gov.au

² amazingoils.com.au

Disclaimer: Naturally Safe Cosmetics and the author are not health professionals. Any information or advice in this article is of a general nature only and obtained from the author's research and product information. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, including magnesium deficiency. Contact your health care professional for advice on your own personal circumstances.