What is the Difference Between Magnesium Chloride and Magnesium Sulfate?

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The main difference between magnesium chloride and magnesium sulfate (also known as Epsom salt) lies in their chemical composition, structure, and absorption rates within the body.

Magnesium Chloride (MgCl2):

  • Contains chloride, which combines with hydrogen in the stomach to form a powerful digestive enzyme that breaks down proteins and activates the intrinsic factor.
  • Has 2% of other trace minerals that are useful to the body.
  • More easily absorbed and utilized by the body compared to magnesium sulfate.
  • Found in natural sources such as the Dead Sea and the Tibetan Plateau.

Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt, MgSO4):

  • Consists of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen.
  • Passes through the body faster than magnesium chloride.
  • Does not contain trace minerals like magnesium chloride.
  • Can be found in nature, such as underground deposits, or created synthetically.

Both compounds offer numerous health benefits, including relieving stress and tension, providing near-instant relief from acute and chronic joint and muscle pain, and supporting people suffering from various conditions. However, due to its higher absorption rate and additional trace minerals, magnesium chloride is considered a more effective and safer option compared to magnesium sulfate.

Comparative Table: Magnesium Chloride vs Magnesium Sulfate

Magnesium Chloride and Magnesium Sulfate are two different compounds that contain magnesium, but they have distinct properties and different absorption rates in the body. Here is a comparison table highlighting their differences:

Property Magnesium Chloride Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt)
Chemical Formula MgCl2 MgSO4
Ionic Compound Yes Yes
Absorption More easily absorbed by the body due to 70% chloride anions Less easily absorbed compared to magnesium chloride
Elemental Magnesium Up to 16% Up to 10%
Trace Minerals Contains 2% of other trace minerals Does not contain trace minerals
Source Harvested from seawater or mined from underground sources Sourced from naturally occurring springs or synthetic materials

Magnesium chloride is considered more effective and safer than magnesium sulfate due to its higher absorption rate and the presence of trace minerals. Additionally, magnesium chloride contains a higher percentage of elemental magnesium compared to magnesium sulfate. However, both compounds share similar health benefits, such as easing muscle pain, tension, and stress relief.