Magnesium oil can be applied by rubbing onto the skin or sprayed when placed in a spray container. It’s suggested to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, but scientific investigation into topical magnesium remains scarce.
Magnesium oil is produced by combining magnesium chloride flakes with water. When mixed, the solution feels oily to the touch even though it is not a true oil.
Magnesium is an essential mineral with numerous roles in the body, including:
- controlling nerve and muscle activity
- helping regulate blood sugar and blood pressure
- supporting the formation and maintenance of proteins, bones, and DNA
Applying magnesium oil to the skin may help increase body levels of this mineral through transdermal absorption.
That said, while evidence supports the benefits of oral magnesium supplements, there is very limited evidence backing the health claims made for transdermal magnesium.
Some newer studies show encouraging results, but further research is required to confirm whether magnesium oil delivers meaningful health advantages.
Continue reading for more information on possible benefits, available forms, and safety considerations for magnesium oil.
Benefits and uses
Low magnesium levels have been associated with a number of chronic illnesses, such as:
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- cardiovascular disease
- stroke
- osteoporosis
- migraine
Much of the research on magnesium for these conditions focuses on dietary intake and oral supplements.
Several recent studies in animals and humans indicate that topical magnesium could offer some benefits, but additional studies are necessary to evaluate its true effectiveness.
Neuropathy linked to chronic kidney disease (CKD)
A study evaluated the impact of transdermal magnesium oil on peripheral neuropathy in 26 people with CKD. Participants sprayed five pumps of a magnesium chloride solution onto their skin once daily for 12 weeks.
By the study’s end, overall magnesium concentration in the body changed little. Nonetheless, participants reported reductions in neuropathic pain and fewer symptoms.
Fibromyalgia
An investigation found that applying magnesium chloride topically to the arms and legs of people with fibromyalgia helped lessen symptoms like pain.
Study subjects were instructed to spray magnesium chloride four times on each limb, twice per day for one month.
Wound healing
An animal study in rodents showed that magnesium-containing creams aided and sped up the wound-healing process.
Forms of magnesium
Magnesium is most commonly available as oral supplements in pill or capsule form.
You can also find magnesium oil, creams, or sprays intended for dermal application.
A 2017 review also discussed a few small trials assessing the effects of bathing in magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) baths. The authors noted that bathing did not show clear benefits.
Magnesium oil can be prepared at home by combining magnesium chloride flakes with boiled, distilled water. A DIY magnesium oil formula is available here.
Side effects and risks
It remains uncertain whether topical magnesium oil produces the same effects as oral magnesium supplements or a magnesium-rich diet.
Determining the dose from topical magnesium oil can be challenging. Even so, it’s important to avoid excessive use.
Guidelines recommend not surpassing the upper daily magnesium intake limit, which is 350 milligrams for individuals aged 9 years and older.
Excessive magnesium intake can cause hypermagnesemia, which may present with diarrhea, muscle cramps, and nausea. In severe situations, it can lead to irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and cardiac arrest.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to apply magnesium oil?
There are no definitive instructions on the optimal site for magnesium oil application. However, a 2017 study observed that applying magnesium cream to the torso, abdomen, and legs slightly raised magnesium levels after two weeks.
What happens if you rub magnesium oil on your feet?
Some people assert that applying magnesium oil to the feet may aid sleep. Yet, no studies have specifically tested this claim.
Where should you avoid putting magnesium oil?
Avoid applying magnesium oil near the mouth, nose, and eyes.
The bottom line
Magnesium oil is promoted as a potential remedy for a range of issues, from migraines to sleep problems.
However, evidence for topical magnesium is very limited, and experts disagree about how effectively it is absorbed through the skin.
If you suspect you have low magnesium, consult a healthcare provider. They can assess your magnesium status and recommend safe ways to increase it.
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