Transdermal Magnesium Uptake: Evidence and Research
Did you know that the increasing number of different tests and trials show better levels of transdermal magnesium absorption (uptake) compared to that in tablets and capsules?
Absorption studies are important to both us and consumers. By communicating and collaborating with some of the leading institutions and associations, we increase the amount of research and evidence available and grow our belief in the effectiveness of (transdermal) magnesium spray.
The most relevant researches to date are as follows:
Cardiff University
In vitro use of transdermal magnesium (in a test tube).
The main conclusion is that absorption through the skin begins immediately.
This in vitro clinical trial by Cardiff University showed that natural magnesium can be delivered transdermally (i.e. via the skin). The study showed that the absorption via the skin started immediately and the effect was accelerated by briefly massaging the skin after spraying. The study also showed that some additional ingredients (for example, aloe vera) can block the absorption of magnesium when used in combination, while others (such as menthol or wintergreen) can promote absorption.
The Nutrition Practitioner
A pilot study to determine the therapeutic effect of transdermal magnesium to a serum and to the total ration of body CaMg.
The main conclusion is: the uptake of magnesium spray is 5 times faster than in the form of tablets.
In this study, the concentration of magnesium in the blood and in the cell was determined by hair analysis before and after twelve weeks of administration of transdermal magnesium by using 31 percent saturated magnesium chloride solution. Thus, after 12 weeks of treatment, the mean increase in cellular magnesium was 59.5 percent in 89 percent of the subjects. With oral magnesium, a similar result can be achieved after nine to twenty-four months. In addition, all patients experienced a mean increase in calcium to magnesium ratio of 25.2 percent over the period of the research. As a side effect, prominent signs of heavy metal detoxification were reported in 78 percent of the subjects.
Migraine Association
The main conclusion is: Magnesium reduces the severity and frequency of migraine attacks.
The three-month study, conducted by Migraine Action, included 68 participants who experienced at least three migraine attacks each month. Each person with migraine used magnesium spray (transdermal magnesium) twice daily (10-20 sprays) and kept a diary of migraine to keep track of changes. Overall, 50% of subjects had a positive effect on migraine. All of these patients were relieved of migraine attacks themselves, and three-quarters of the attacks lasted shorter.
Journal of Integrative Medicine
Effects of transdermal magnesium chloride on quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia: a pilot study.
Key finding: Significant benefit in patients with fibromyalgia.
The renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester (USA) investigated whether transdermal magnesium oil affects fibromyalgia. The study included 40 women with a clinically diagnosed "fibromyalgia". Using a special fibromyalgia questionnaire, the nature and occurrence of complaints were recorded on a special scale. The data were recorded at baseline, 2 weeks and 4 weeks after treatment. Each participant was asked to spray 4 times on each limb 2 times daily for 4 weeks. 24 participants completed the study. Complaints from all of the participants decreased significantly.
University of Queensland, Australia
The penetration of topically applied magnesium ions through human skin is facilitated by hair follicles
The main conclusion is: hair follicles contribute to up to 40% absorption of topically used magnesium.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the absorption of magnesium through the upper layer of the skin (stratum corneum) and the role of hair follicles in facilitating absorption. The study showed that the top layer of skin is permeable to magnesium chloride, which is greatly assisted by hair follicles. The penetration improves with the amount of time that magnesium chloride is left on the skin, as well as the concentration of magnesium used; increased absorption is monitored for up to 60 minutes after use.
The Plos One Journal
Effect of transdermal magnesium cream on magnesium concentration in human serum and urine.
Key findings: The transdermally applied magnesium cream significantly increased the amount of magnesium in the subjects.
This pilot study was designed to determine whether the amount of magnesium in the cream could be absorbed through the skin and increase the total amount of magnesium. 25 participants were randomized to receive either 56 mg of magnesium cream or placebo cream, which they had to use daily for two weeks; serum and urine magnesium levels were investigated before and after use.
Although there was no difference in baseline between placebo groups, a clinically significant increase in serum and urine magnesium levels was observed in those using magnesium cream. Although participants had relatively low levels of magnesium (56 mg / day), it had a marked effect on the increase in magnesium levels.