Does Spraying Magnesium on Your Feet Help You Sleep? Doctors Debunk the Popular Social Media Trend

We’ve all dealt with the struggle of falling asleep. Whether you take a melatonin or two or have a bedtime ritual, there are easy things you can do to ensure a good night’s rest. However, if these aren’t working, you may want to try spraying magnesium on your feet. Why? Users on social media, especially TikTok, are claiming that they get more sleep and feel less stressed thanks to the viral trend. But does spraying magnesium on your feet actually help you sleep? Luckily, Woman’s World turned to the sleep experts to reveal the truth about the mineral spray. Keep reading to learn more about magnesium and its connection to sleep and how to use it safely.

What is magnesium?

Magnesium is a mineral found in the body, available in many food sources and can also be taken as a supplement or used topically. According to the National Institutes of Health, it’s needed for “muscle and nerve function” and “blood pressure regulation,” and can also be used to help alleviate pain or boost your mood.

It’s recommended not to ingest or use more than 350 milligrams per day, but using more magnesium might not be so bad for bedtime.

Why you should spray magnesium on your feet before going to sleep

“Spraying magnesium on your feet is beneficial because it allows for rapid absorption through the skin, bypassing the digestive system,” explains Eboni January, MD , a board-certified OB-GYN and Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Known as “transdermal magnesium therapy,” this method can increase levels of magnesium in the body, “helping to alleviate deficiencies and support various physiological functions.”

Related: What Is Colostrum and Why Are Celebrities Using It to Boost Their Health? A Closer Look

It also prevents possible stomach problems you might get from ingesting a supplement and is gentler on the body when used this way. There’s no harm in spraying your feet daily either, especially if you’re looking for better sleep.

What are the benefits of spraying magnesium on your feet?

You can spray magnesium on other parts of your body; however, Raj Dasgupta, MD , Chief Medical Advisor for Sleep Advisor, suggests sticking to the feet because “feet have thinner skin and larger pores, making them ideal for efficient magnesium absorption compared to other areas.”

“The skin on the feet is generally less sensitive, reducing the likelihood of irritation compared to other body parts,” adds January. She suggests starting with a small amount of spray for each foot and gradually increasing from there. You’ll reap more of the benefits if you maintain consistency so try spraying every day.

Your sleep will improve due to spraying magnesium on your feet

“Magnesium plays a crucial role in regulating neurotransmitters and melatonin, which are vital for sleep,” says January. Look for sprays with magnesium glycinate (magnesium with the amino acid glycine ) specifically because it helps the nervous system calm down.

In a study from the journal Sleep , taking or using magnesium did result in better sleep. It’s advised to spray the magnesium before going to bed to promote relaxation and improve overall sleep quality.

You’ll have less pain if you spray magnesium on your feet before going to sleep

Not only is magnesium good for sleep, it also works to alleviate pain, and ease your muscles. Dasgupta shares that taking a supplement or using it topically “helps muscles relax, reducing cramps and supporting optimal muscle function.”

You can also use it to minimize muscle spasms and soreness and it’s especially great for athletes or those with any muscle injuries.

@shelbytakesnc talks about spraying magnesium oil on sore areas in a video on TikTok and noticed results almost immediately.

You’ll reduce stress and anxiety if you spray magnesium on your feet before going to sleep

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, adding magnesium into your daily routine can help you calm down. “It is involved in the regulation of stress hormones like cortisol,” explains January. “Adequate magnesium levels can help manage stress and anxiety, promoting overall mental well-being.”

The good thing about magnesium spray is that it’s more natural and doesn’t contain chemicals like other potential stress relievers. @travelsntrends found success with a magnesium spray and shared her experience on TikTok.

Can you use too much magnesium?

Like any supplement spray, there can be side effects if you use too much. January notes that “magnesium deficiency is quite common due to modern dietary habits and soil depletion,” but magnesium overage isn’t great either.

“While transdermal magnesium is generally safe and well-tolerated, excessive use can lead to symptoms like skin irritation, diarrhea, and an upset stomach if absorbed in large quantities,” says January. It’s key to use recommended dosages for your body and health needs.

For more ways to achieve a good night's rest:

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This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan .