20 August 2026
Magnesium: what it's for and which one to choose
If one supplement has kept growing year after year, it's magnesium. With reason: it's involved in over 300 of the body's reactions, from muscles to the nervous system, and the modern diet often falls short. At the counter, though, the question is always the same: 'which magnesium is right for me?'. It depends on what you're after.
Cramps and tight muscles: magnesium chloride
Magnesium chloride — the Ana Maria LaJusticia classic found in homes for decades — is the best-known and most economical form. It suits night cramps, tight muscles and athletes. Its only drawback is the bitter taste; if that puts you off, magnesium citrate does the same job with a better flavour and gentler digestion.
Joints and skin: collagen with magnesium
From a certain age, the star combination is collagen with magnesium: magnesium takes part in protein synthesis — collagen included — and together they support joints, bones and skin. It's the formula we recommend most from age 50, and to endurance athletes too.
Nerves and rest: magnesium with tryptophan
For times of stress and irregular sleep, look for formulas combining magnesium with tryptophan (often with melatonin and vitamin B6): tryptophan is serotonin's precursor, and the pairing helps both mood and rest. Taken in the evening. If you take mood medication, ask first.
Plants mentioned in this guide
In the shop you'll find
This information reflects traditional uses of plants for general guidance and does not replace advice from a health professional. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a medical condition, ask before using them.