Magnesium chloride

Magnesium chloride is one of the most commonly studied magnesium compounds. As an essential mineral, magnesium is involved in numerous physiological processes in your body. In this article, you will learn based on current data what distinguishes magnesium chloride and how it differs from other magnesium compounds such as Magnesium L-Threonate and Magnesium Malate . 

What is magnesium chloride?

Magnesium chloride (chemical formula: MgCl₂) is a salt that predominantly occurs as a hexahydrate. It is a colorless, highly water-soluble substance and is found naturally in seawater, salt lakes, and in certain salt deposits such as bischofite.

For context, it is important to note: Magnesium chloride refers to a specific magnesium compound. The term "magnesium," on the other hand, describes the chemical element itself, which is involved in numerous physiological processes in the body.If you want to learn more about the basic significance of the mineral, you can find more information in our basic article "What is Magnesium".

Origin and extraction of magnesium chloride

Magnesium chloride primarily comes from natural sources. These include seawater, saline lakes, and underground salt deposits. In industrial extraction, evaporation processes are usually employed, where seawater is concentrated and then further processed.

The origin of magnesium chloride plays an important role in the purity and quality of the end product. Therefore, high standards for processing, control, and quality standards apply for use in food or dietary supplements to avoid possible contamination.

Magnesium chloride in the body – physiological classification

Magnesium chloride provides the body with magnesium.This mineral supports several fundamental physiological functions according to the European Food Safety Authority. These include, among others:

• Muscle function: Magnesium contributes to normal muscle function.
  
• Energy metabolism: Magnesium supports normal energy metabolism.
• Nervous system: Magnesium contributes to the normal function of the nervous system.
• Electrolyte balance: Magnesium supports the balance of electrolytes in the body.

Important for classification: Magnesium chloride does not act as an independent active ingredient but serves solely as a source of magnesium. The chloride contained is also an electrolyte and part of the acid-base balance.Also here applies: The physiological effects arise from the interplay of various minerals – not from a single magnesium compound.

Magnesium has been the focus of scientific research for many years and is being studied in various contexts. For example, a randomized clinical study showed that daily supplementation with magnesium chloride in adults with mild to moderate depressive symptoms was associated with changes in certain questionnaire scores. Possible correlations between magnesium status and aspects of glucose metabolism are currently being investigated in newer clinical studies.

Application of magnesium chloride

Magnesium chloride is not only used in the nutritional field but also plays a role in numerous technical and industrial applications.The following table provides you with an overview of selected areas of application.

Magnesium chloride in food and dietary supplements

In food and dietary supplements, magnesium chloride serves as a source of magnesium.Due to its good water solubility, magnesium chloride can be processed well technically. It is often a component in a magnesium complex, that combines several magnesium compounds to cover different properties and ensure better bioavailability.

Which magnesium compound is sensible depends on the respective product concept, the composition, and individual factors – not just on a single property alone.

Can magnesium chloride be absorbed through the skin?

Magnesium chloride is often marketed as a so-called "magnesium oil" for application on the skin. However, this approach has not yet been clearly substantiated scientifically. Although there are studies on the transdermal application of magnesium, the available data is limited and sometimes contradictory.

The current state of research shows: The oral intake of magnesium is well studied and established. Statements regarding the effectiveness of a transdermal application should therefore be made cautiously and clearly categorized as subjects of current research.

What distinguishes magnesium chloride from other magnesium compounds?

The existence of various magnesium compounds is due to the chemical bonding of magnesium. This influences properties such as solubility, structure, and areas of application, among others.

Tolerability and possible side effects

Magnesium is generally considered to be well tolerated. With high intake, gastrointestinal effects such as softer stools or diarrhea may occur, regardless of the magnesium compound. Individual tolerability may vary and depends on factors including the amount consumed and personal factors.
In case of health complaints or prolonged side effects, medical advice should be sought.

Overall, it applies: The tolerability of magnesium is individual and should always be considered in relation to the dosage.

Conclusion - Overview of Magnesium Chloride

Magnesium chloride is a versatile magnesium compound with a wide range of applications – both in industrial uses and in food and dietary supplements. Due to its good water solubility, it serves as a practical source of magnesium and can be processed well technically.
It is crucial to note: It is not the compound itself that is in focus, but the magnesium it provides. Magnesium chloride is thus one of several available forms of magnesium that differ in properties such as solubility, structure, and application.The suitability of a magnesium compound in the respective context depends on the overall composition of a product as well as individual factors and cannot be determined universally.