If you have a physically demanding job or you stay active on a regular basis, you might experience sore muscles a little more often than you'd like to. Before reaching for over-the-counter pain meds or Icy Hot the next time your muscles are sore, consider trying a more natural approach - magnesium lotion.
Magnesium For Sore Muscles
Magnesium is involved in over 300 chemical reactions in the body. Its one of the body's most essential minerals. Almost every part of your body needs magnesium, but it's estimated that 80% of adults are deficient in this essential mineral. A magnesium deficiency can cause muscle aches or spasms, anxiety and trouble sleeping, among other negative symptoms. Magnesium plays an important role in muscle contractions and neuromuscular signals. If your body is magnesium deficient, you can experience muscle spams. Magnesium allows the muscles to relax and contract, helping you move around with ease. Magnesium also balances calcium levels inside the body. Calcium levels that are too high can lead to muscle pains, cramps, weakness and contractions.
Topical Magnesium
Magnesium supplements have many benefits for those who aren't getting enough of the important mineral in their diet. Supplementing with magnesium can help treat insomnia and anxiety, increase energy and promote a healthy digestive system. But magnesium can also be absorbed through the skin. In a study conducted by Dr. Norman Shealy of the American Holistic Medical Association, participants used magnesium flake foot soaks. They also topically applied magnesium oil each day. The study found that after four weeks, 75% of participants displayed a significant increasein their body's magnesium levels. Not only is magnesium lotion able to soothe sore muscles, it also acts as a natural form of sunblock, and it moisturizes your skin!
Homemade Magnesium Lotion
Ingredients:- 1/2 cup of magnesium chloride flakes
- 3 tablespoons of boiling water
- 4 ounces of raw shea butter
- Mix 1/2 cup of magnesium chloride flakes with 3 tablespoons of hot distilled water that has already been boiled.
- Mix the solution until it dissolves together.
- Melt 1/2 cup of raw shea butter.
- Add the magnesium chloride solution to the melted shea butter.
- Use a blender to mix the solution together until it has a fluffy consistency.
- Store your magnesium lotion in jars and use whenever needed! Your lotion can be kept in the fridge for up to two months.
