What is the Difference Between Epsom Salt and Magnesium Flakes

The main difference between Epsom salt and magnesium flakes is that Epsom salt consists of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen, along with water molecules, whereas magnesium flakes consist of magnesium, chlorine, oxygen, and water molecules.

Epsom salt and magnesium flakes are two popular choices for individuals seeking the benefits of transdermal magnesium absorption, relaxation, and muscle relief. While they share the goal of delivering magnesium to the body through the skin, they differ in chemical composition, texture, and origins.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Epsom Salt  
     – Definition, Features 
2. What are Magnesium Flakes
     – Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Epsom Salt and Magnesium Flakes
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Epsom Salt and Magnesium Flakes
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Epsom Salt, Magnesium Chloride, Magnesium Flakes, MgCl2, MgSO₄ · 7H₂O, Magnesium Sulfate Heptahydrate

What is Epsom Salt

Epsom salt, chemically referred to as magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (MgSO4 · 7H2O), forms a crystalline structure in which all its components are bound together. This unique composition contributes to its diverse range of applications, both in personal care and home remedies. The magnesium content in Epsom salt is of particular significance, as magnesium plays a vital role in numerous physiological processes within the body.

Perhaps one of the most well-known and widely appreciated benefits of Epsom salt is its ability to promote muscle relaxation and alleviate soreness. When added to a warm bath, Epsom salt dissolves, releasing magnesium and sulfate ions that can be absorbed through the skin. These ions can aid in relaxing muscle fibers, reducing tension, and soothing post-exercise discomfort. Athletes and individuals seeking relief from muscle cramps often turn to Epsom salt baths as a natural remedy.

To create an Epsom salt bath, one can dissolve a cup or two of the salt in warm bathwater and soak it for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the skin to absorb the minerals, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Epsom salt can also work in foot soaks, scrubs, and compresses for targeted relief.

What are Magnesium Flakes

Magnesium flakes, commonly known as magnesium chloride (MgCl₂), are an essential compound in the field of wellness and self-care. Magnesium flakes consist of high concentrations of magnesium. These dissolve in your body more easily than Epsom salts. Magnesium flakes are often used externally. It is used in the form of baths or body wraps. When magnesium flakes dissolve in water, they create a solution containing high concentrations of magnesium, which can be absorbed through the skin. This process is known as transdermal absorption. When you soak in a bath containing magnesium flakes, your body gradually absorbs magnesium, which is an essential mineral. This treatment helps alleviate magnesium deficiency and offers a wide range of other benefits as well.

Magnesium, which is present in magnesium flakes, plays a major role in regulating neurotransmitters and muscle function, making It a  natural relaxation aid. A warm bath with magnesium flakes gives you considerable relaxation, calming your body and mind.

Athletes and individuals experiencing muscle tension frequently rely on magnesium flakes for relief. Magnesium plays a crucial role in muscle relaxation, alleviating discomfort, and promoting recovery. This relaxation effect can translate into improved sleep quality, making an evening bath with magnesium flakes a relaxing prelude to a restful night’s sleep. Beyond muscle relaxation, magnesium contributes to skin health. Additionally, it plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system, with transdermal absorption through magnesium baths serving as a valuable method to support heart health.

Similarities Between Epsom Salt and Magnesium Flakes

• Both Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) and magnesium flakes (magnesium chloride) are rich sources of magnesium.
• Both help in transdermal absorption
• They can alleviate muscle aches, soreness, and joint discomfort.

Difference Between Epsom Salt and Magnesium Flakes

Definition

Epsom salt is chemically known as magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (MgSO4 · 7H2O), whereas magnesium flakes are pure magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) without the sulfate component found in Epsom salt.

Origin

While Epsom salt is traditionally obtained from natural mineral springs or through chemical processes, Magnesium flakes are usually obtained through the evaporation of seawater, making them a more natural source of magnesium.

Texture

Epsom salt typically has larger crystals and a coarse texture. However, magnesium flakes have a finer texture and are often described as being more comfortable on the skin.

Absorption

Epsom salt may have a slightly slower absorption rate through the skin compared to magnesium flakes due to the presence of sulfate ions, which can be less readily absorbed through the skin.

Conclusion

The main difference between Epsom salt and magnesium flakes is that Epsom salt contains magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen, along with water molecules, whereas magnesium flakes contain magnesium, chlorine, oxygen, and water molecules. In addition, magnesium flakes may dissolve somewhat more slowly than Epsom salt.

Reference:

1. “The What, Why, and How of Epsom Salt Baths.” Healthline.
2. “MAGNESIUM: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews.” WebMD.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Coco Louis Hair and Body – Bath Salts – Epsom Salts” By Coco Louis AU – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Salt, dead, sea, water, nature, magnesium, snow, winter, cold temperature, day” (CC0) via Pxfuel