SWAP THIS FOR YOUR NEXT EPSOM SALT BATH
Epsom salts were always my go-to for a relaxing bath, until I learned there was a better option
I often heard about the benefits of Epsom salts, like sore muscle relief, boosting detoxification, and promoting restful sleep… and it’s true, but did you know there is another option that has even greater benefits?
Seeing them for sale at my local grocery store or drug store, I would grab a bag or two to keep on hand as a staple item in my bathroom. There were often scented version of Epsom salts, like lavender for sleep, or eucalyptus for sore muscles, which seemed especially appealing as a nice way to unwind and relax.
It never even occurred to me that I should read the ingredients...
When it comes to “fragrance” these days I choose to avoid it because there is no telling what sort of chemicals could have been used to create that scent, so I feel it’s best to stick with unscented versions.
According to EWG.org, “A major loophole in FDA's federal law lets manufacturers of products like shampoo, lotion, and body wash include nearly any ingredient in their products under the name "fragrance" without actually listing the chemical.”
Fragrance is rated as an 8 (yikes!) on the EWG Skin Deep website, citing potential for causing allergies, dermatitis, respiratory distress and harmful effects on the reproductive system.
Ok, so fragrance is not good... but what about the unscented epsom salts?
Salt is just salt, right?
Well, sort of…
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in hundreds of bodily functions, and there are many different types of magnesium available for different health purposes.
Let’s take a closer look at 2 popular types of topical magnesium…
Epsom salts are magnesium sulfate (MgSO4)
This form of magnesium is great for short term relief of aches and pains. Soaking in a tub with unscented Epsom salts does have health benefits, but because it is quickly excreted by the kidneys, those benefits will be short lived.
Pure, unscented Epsom salts are an affordable and safe option for bath soaks, but this form of magnesium falls short in a couple of key areas:
Absorption rate
Bioavailability
“Magnesium sulfate USP”
What is Magnesium Chloride? (MgC12)
Magnesium chloride is a naturally occurring compound which is sourced from ancient sea beds, like the Zechstein sea or the Dead Sea, and is rich in beneficial minerals.
This form of magnesium is highly soluble in water, allowing for greater absorption compared to Epsom salts and it has greater bioavailability, which means the body can more effectively absorb and utilize this form of magnesium.
“Magnesium chloride flakes”
some benefits of using magnesium chloride flakes in your bath include:
1. Superior Absorption: Due to higher solubility, magnesium chloride flakes can penetrate the skin more effectively for prolonged relaxation and muscle recovery
2. Hydration: Magnesium chloride has humectant properties, which help to retain moisture in the skin, promoting a soft and hydrated feel post-bath
3. Detoxification: Baths with magnesium chloride can support the body’s natural detoxification processes, helping to draw out impurities
4. Calming Effect: Many users report feeling an immediate calming effect, as magnesium is crucial in supporting a healthy nervous system and reducing anxiety levels
Shop my favorite brand of magnesium bath flakes here
