When it comes to fitness supplements, Magnesium is often overlooked with attention going to the big guns such as protein and creatine, particularly when it comes to muscle gains, health and recovery. While modern science has shown us that both protein & creatine both play a vital role in building muscle mass and improving athletic performance, it also teaches us that adequate muscle recovery is where the magic happens. In fact, it's required to achieve those coveted performance and fitness goals. This is where topical Magnesium Oil comes in.
Keep reading for a simple breakdown of magnesium's importance to the body, and why you may want to consider adding it to your recovery routine, especially if you workout consistently.
Sources of Magnesium
Magnesium is the 2nd most abundant vital mineral in the human body and is responsible for over 300 metabolic processes necessary for normal biological functions. Some of the most notable is it’s role in maintaining electrolyte balance, normal nerve & muscle function, cellular production of energy & protein in addition to immune system health and bone strength.
Magnesium is found in many food sources such as dark leafy greens (kale, spinach, collards, etc.) vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans and whole grains to name a few.
Even though we can get this vital mineral from food, or in oral supplements, studies show that one in five Americans (that's 60%) receive less than half the recommended daily amount of magnesium.
One reason for this is that soil in the US is severly depleted of Magnesium, therefore our food does not contain adequate amounts. Additionally, we don't fully absorb what we eat, and dietary supplements can cause a laxative effect. Because topical magnesium is bio-available, you can safely increase cellular magnesium levels with some results experience immediately.
You might wondering, what is magnesium oil?
To be clear, it’s not actually an oil at all. Magnesium chloride flakes are dissolved in purified water to make topical magnesium oil. The high mineral content gives it a slight oily feeling when applied which is where it gets the name.
To further clarify, magnesium chloride is not the same as epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) or the magnesium found in dead sea salt. The Lucabello Magnesium Oil Wellness Spray is made with magnesium harvested from the ancient Zechstein sea bed, the purest form of Mg in the world.
The benefits of topical magnesium
Applying magnesium oil to the skin is a transdermal delivery method allowing it to be absorbed and by the body quickly. Magnesium works directly on the muscles by relaxing them, improving oxygen uptake and energy production, balancing electrolytes and reducing inflammation. This makes it ideal to use before exercising and more importantly after workouts to replenish for recovery as you intense exercise and sweating depletes magnesium at a higher rate.
More magnesium benefits include:
- Reduced muscle soreness from physical activity
- Eases muscle cramping and spasms
- Overall stress management and anxiety relief
- Improved skin health especially with inflammatory skin conditions
- Better sleep and ability to fall asleep faster
- Helps ease restless leg syndrome
How to use magnesium oil
The best way to increase magnesium levels topically is through bath soaks and a magnesium oil spray, which is the superior method. Magnesium can be used daily, before and after working out and as part of a bed time routine. We recommend to spray areas of tension or soreness 3-5 times and massage into skin. For general well being, spray the abdomen, lower back and bottom of feet. If using for restless leg syndrome (RLS), spray the legs directly and massage in.
Magnesium oil can be used throughout the day and does not need to be rinsed off. Some people prefer to rinse it off which is okay, just be sure to leave it on the skin for a minimum of 20 minutes. Some will notice a slight tingle sensation which is common and usually subsides with after a couple minutes and with continued use.
Ready to experience the benefits of Magnesium Oil for yourself? Try it here!
Hi Leslie, Great Q & sorry for the confusion. The amazing thing is, magnesium oil can be used anytime, anywhere that works best for you! Here’s some examples:
1. Some like it rinsed off, but it’s not necessary. If that’s the case, then leave it on a minimum of 20 minutes before showering, bathing, etc.
2. It can be used before/after workouts, massage & foam rolling, on rest days and especially before bed. It can be sprayed directly where you feel tension or soreness. For overall general benefits, it’s best to use on abdomen, lower back or bottom of feet.
Hope this helps, let us know if you have more questions!
It says leave on or take off after 20 minutes which is best please I’m a little confused ? Also it says straight after a workout is that after a shower or not ?