Magnesium is an element and electrolyte crucial to life on Earth. As the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body, magnesium is essential for maintaining overall health. In nature, plants can't live without it.
About Magnesium
Magnesium (Mg) is a chemical element with atomic number 12. It is an alkaline earth metal active in the great perspective of the universe itself to microcosmic levels in human health and ecological balance.
The eighth most plentiful element in the universe and ninth most abundant in Earth's crust, magnesium has a shiny, silver-white appearance. Natural magnesium is in minerals like dolomite and magnesite, and in seawater.
An adult body has 22–26 grams of magnesium. Of this 60% is in the skeleton, 39% is intracellular (20% in skeletal muscle), and 1% extracellular.
Magnesium has low density and a melting point of 650 °C (1,202 °F). It has a relatively low atomic weight of 24.305 g/mol, which makes it one of the lighter elements.
Magnesium easily forms compounds with other elements. It's especially reactive in presence of moisture or air. It spontaneously reacts in air to form a protective layer of magnesium oxide (MgO, magnesia).
Used in fireworks and flares, magnesium produces bright white light. In compounds, magnesium forms various salts, the most notable being MgO and magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt, MgSO4).
Formation of Magnesium
In nature, magnesium is primarily obtained from seawater, the mineral ores dolomite, magnesite, carnallite, and sedimentary stone. The most significant source is believed to be the Earth's mantle.
Extraction of magnesium from its ores usually involves thermal reduction. In the lab, magnesium can be made though methods like electrolysis of magnesium chloride (MgCl2), or thermal reduction of MgO with carbon.
In stars, magnesium is created through nuclear fusion, incorporating lighter elements like helium. When stars age and undergo supernova events, magnesium is released into space to become part of new celestial bodies.
Functions in Human Health
Magnesium is a cofactor in more than 300 enzymatic reactions governing processes such as:
Energy Production: Magnesium takes part in ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, necessary for energy transfer in cells.
Muscle Function: It regulates nerve impulses and facilitates muscle contraction and relaxation. Healthy magnesium levels help prevent cramps and spasms. Magnesium ensures proper function in both skeletal and smooth muscles.
Bone Health: About 60% of magnesium in the body is stored in bones. It aids in formation of bone structures and works synergistically with calcium and vitamin D. It facilitates the body's uptake of calcium.
Cardiovascular Health: Magnesium contributes to heart rhythm, blood pressure regulation, and overall cardiovascular function. It's essential for maintaining a healthy heartbeat.
Nervous System Regulation: It helps in neurotransmitter release and may reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress.
Nature and Environment
Magnesium is crucial for ecosystems. Plants need magnesium as part of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for photosynthesis. Without it, plants can get chlorosis (ie yellowing leaves and stunted growth), and die.
In aquatic environments, magnesium contributes to water quality and is involved in processes like nutrient cycling. It can influence the solubility of calcium and other minerals, affecting efficiency of aquatic ecosystems.
Level of magnesium in soil can significantly affect agricultural productivity. Crops are stronger with a hit of Mg. Magnesium helps stabilize DNA and RNA structures, affecting genetic expression in plants and animals.
Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency
Both plants and humans can suffer from magnesium deficiency. Symptoms include:
In Humans:
Fatigue and Weakness: Low magnesium levels can lead to a lack of energy.
Muscle Cramps or Spasms: Unexplained cramping may suggest a deficiency.
Nausea and Vomiting: Gastric disturbances can occur.
Mental Health Issues: Anxiety, depression, mood swings and irritability can arise with low magnesium levels.
Chronic deficiency leads to severe health issues like osteoporosis and hypertension
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and sex but is generally about 400-420 mg for biological men and 310-320 mg for biological women, more if pregnant or breastfeeding.
In Plants:
Chlorosis: Yellowing of leaves, particularly in older leaves due to a lack of chlorophyll.
Leaf Drop: Severe deficiencies can lead to early leaf drop, affecting plant health and yield.
Stunted Growth: Overall growth inhibition and reduced fruit production.
Symptoms of High Magnesium Levels
Excess magnesium can lead to toxicity, though rare in people who consume it as food. High magnesium levels tend to result from supplements or medications. Symptoms include:
Diarrhea: magnesium has a laxative effect.
Nausea and Vomiting
Muscle Weakness: due to over-saturation in the bloodstream.
Irregular Heartbeat: in extreme cases, it cause cardio complications.
Kidney dysfunction:
In Plants
High magnesium levels can interfere with the absorption of other essential nutrients, such as calcium and potassium, leading to nutrient imbalance adversely affecting plant growth.
Facts about Magnesium
Historical Significance: Magnesium was first isolated in 1808 by British chemist Sir Humphry Davy.
Biomineralization: Magnesium is fundamental to creating biogenic minerals like bird eggshells and aquatic shells.
Dietary Sources: Spinach, almonds, cashews, whole grains, and legumes are rich sources of this essential mineral.
Fireworks: Magnesium is used in pyrotechnics for its bright white light, making it a popular element in fireworks.
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