FAQ

QUESTIONS?

TERRAFLORA®

What makes Terraflora® better than traditional probiotics?
Terraflora® is a better choice as a probiotic because the spore-based bacillus strains in our probiotic formula are heat resistant, shelf stable, and protected from harsh stomach acid. On the contrary, many Lactic acid based probiotic strains do not have that same inherent resiliency, typically require refrigeration, and often do not survive all the way through the digestive tract. Spore-based bacillus bacteria is naturally occurring in our environment, highly viable, and able to colonize in the gut where you need it most.

Terraflora® is also a Synbiotic, meaning in addition to the probiotic strains, Terraflora’s formula includes a prebiotic bio-complex of wild-harvested, certified organic, food-based ingredients. The paired prebiotics in Terraflora™ are designed to enrich a broad spectrum of beneficial bacteria within the GI tract, which ensures successful proliferation of favorable microbes throughout the lower intestine.

And while there are other Bacillus-based probiotics on the market, Terraflora® is the only probiotic available that combines spore-based bacteria with prebiotics specifically designed to support and maintain a healthy bacterial balance in the gut.

ANCIENT MINERALS®

Where is Ancient Minerals MSM Sourced?

All Ancient Minerals Ultra products use MSM supplied by Bergstrom Nutrition. For over 30 years they have maintained a reputation of consistently delivering the highest quality MSM globally, and OptiMSM® is the purest and only GRAS-designated MSM supplier available on the market. Trusted by manufacturers and consumers alike, OptiMSM® has earned the reputation as the purest, safest, most consistent quality MSM in the world.

Bergstrom Nutrition uses a proprietary multi-stage distillation process, and every batch is third-party tested, ensuring optimal purity, quality, and consistency. OptiMSM® is made exclusively in the USA and manufactured in a cGMP-certified, ISO-registered facility. OptiMSM® is Kosher and Halal certified, non-GMO, gluten-free, allergen-free, non-shellfish-derived, and vegan, all backed by extensive toxicology data.

For additional information on MSM, read more: What is MSM? and Why is MSM so beneficial for Athletes?

Manufactured and distributed by Enviromedica®, Ancient Minerals® magnesium offers a full line of transdermal magnesium products with OptiMSM®, including Magnesium Flakes Ultra, Magnesium Oil Ultra, Magnesium Lotion Ultra, and Magnesium Gel Ultra.

Why is MSM so Beneficial for Athletes?

A Natural Sulfur for Joint Pain and Muscle Soreness

Pre-workout or post-workout, joint pain or muscle soreness, swelling and inflammation, fitness stressors are distractions for athletes that interrupt busy daily routines. MSM is a natural sulfur remedy for all the above. Methylsulfonylmethane supports connective tissues, joints, ligaments, and tendons. MSM promotes blood flow to muscles that assists in the healing process and reduces painful muscle spasms. MSM also maximizes the benefits of exercise and fitness through inflammation relief and muscle recovery, sulfur playing a role in both collagen and keratin.

MSM Musculoskeletal Benefits

  1. Joint, Tendon, and Ligament Mobility and Elasticity
  2. Inflammation Reduction and Muscle Recovery
  3. Promotes Blood Flow to Muscles Stimulating Growth and Repair
  4. Reduces Painful Muscle Spasms and Contractions

In the same category, we are often asked about Glucosamine and Chondroitin. When compared to MSM, these molecules are much larger and more complex. MSM is a small, simple molecule that is essentially carbon-based organic sulfur, while Glucosamine and Chondroitin are both components of normal cartilage. Glucosamine is a substance found naturally in the fluid that surrounds your joints; Chondroitin is found in the cartilage around your joints. Both substances play a role in keeping your joints cushioned and lubricated. MSM is a sulfur compound that also provides additional inflammation reducing benefits.

The synergistic action of MSM with Glucosamine and Chondroitin has been demonstrated in human clinical trials. MSM may help mitigate inflammation and enhance cell permeability, allowing the body to make better use of these two important joint supporting compounds. Enviromedica® offers a Cartilage Collagen supplement that is also an excellent addition to any athletes regimen.

The Premier MSM Supplier Globally

All Ancient Minerals® Ultra products use MSM supplied by Bergstrom Nutrition. They are recognized as the highest quality MSM producer globally, and OptiMSM® is the purest and only GRAS-designated MSM produced in the United States.

OptiMSM® also bears the Informed-Choice designation. Informed-Choice is a global quality assurance program for sports nutrition product suppliers and manufacturers. The program certifies that every batch of a supplement product or raw material that bears the Informed-Choice logo have been tested for banned substances by LGC’s sports anti-doping laboratory.

Additional information about MSM can be found in the article: What is MSM? Ancient Minerals® offers a full line of transdermal magnesium products with MSM including Magnesium Flakes Ultra, Magnesium Oil Ultra, Magnesium Lotion Ultra, Magnesium Gel Ultra, and Magnesium Lotion Goodnight with melatonin.

Is topical magnesium beneficial for those with restless sleep and leg discomfort?
Magnesium in the body acts as a natural nerve calmer and muscle relaxant, among other things. Because of these qualities, those with restless sleep and leg discomfort often find a modicum of relief simply by boosting their magnesium levels whether via food or supplementation.

The benefit of applying magnesium topically is that it can have a more direct and immediate effect to the area in which it is applied – which is obviously incredibly helpful for those experiencing localized pain or discomfort. Our experience has been that initial use will require more frequent applications, tapering off once magnesium levels are sufficiently, and consistently, boosted.

Feedback from those experiencing restless sleep and leg discomfort has suggested that application of the magnesium immediately prior to sleep would be the most effective, as well as keeping it accessible on a nightstand should periodic use throughout the night be required.
Is it better to apply the Ancient Minerals magnesium oil before or after my workout?
There are numerous fitness benefits to be had by having sufficient magnesium in the body at all times. That being said, usage both before and after rigorous activity have varying perks that you may want to capitalize on depending on your fitness goals and schedule.
Magnesium can help to increase endurance, stamina, flexibility, and even power output, which are all persuasive reasons for use prior to working out. However, it is also used in the body for muscle recovery along with a whole host of biological processes that are impacted when we exert ourselves.
Can I apply lotion on top of Ancient Minerals magnesium oil?
Many people struggle with dry skin during summer months due to weather changes, increased bathing, swimming pool chlorination, etc. Since the Ancient Minerals magnesium oil is a high concentration magnesium salt, for some it may add to that hurdle.

We recommend that if you wish to use a moisturizing lotion following your application of magnesium oil to wait at least 15-20 minutes prior to doing so to give the oil adequate time to absorb into your skin on its own. Don’t forget that we also have a fantastic lotion selection amongst our Ancient Minerals line that is completely free of toxic ingredients and provides a luxurious blend rich in emollients with the added benefit of our Zechstein magnesium.
Is it okay to apply the Ancient Minerals magnesium oil to sunburned skin?
Although magnesium is a well-known anti-inflammatory agent and may aid in mild to moderate sunburn recovery, the potency of the full strength magnesium oil will more than likely be a bit too harsh for sensitive, sunburned skin. If you wish to utilize topical magnesium for this purpose, we recommend a much more diluted application such as the Ancient Minerals magnesium bath flakes, or a dilution of the Ancient Minerals magnesium oil of at least 10 to 1 so as to not potentially agitate already injured skin. This would also apply to those with various forms of dermatitis, such as eczema or psoriasis.
How does Ancient Minerals compare with other topical magnesium products on the market?
Ancient Minerals is the only topical magnesium brand formulated using the exclusive Genuine Zechstein® magnesium chloride source. Other manufacturers use inferior forms of magnesium, sourced from impure ocean deposits and contaminated inland water sources. Learn about the testing and production processes we employ to ensure a pure magnesium product.
Are Ancient Minerals magnesium products safe for animals and pets?
Absolutely. Ancient Minerals topical magnesium products are just as effective on animals and pets as they are on humans. In fact, natural and alternative veterinary clinics around the world use our magnesium gel and magnesium oil for everything from wound care to general health maintenance.
Are Ancient Minerals magnesium products safe to use with children?
Most definitely! Ancient Minerals magnesium baths are the preferred application by most parents, and have been used with great success on children as young as 6 months old. They are not only safe, but also highly therapeutic and can calm even the most restless young ones.
Is there a maximum daily limit for using Ancient Minerals topically?
No. The skin has a unique ability to self-regulate absorption, and therefore overuse is of little concern.
Are there any precautions for using Ancient Minerals magnesium products?
Avoid using Ancient Minerals magnesium gel, magnesium lotion or magnesium oil near mucus membranes such as the eyes and nose, which can cause some irritation.

In addition, though applying the magnesium oil and/or gel to broken skin or wounds can be highly therapeutic and cleansing, the high concentration of magnesium salts may cause discomfort. If you are using Ancient Minerals on broken skin or lesions (i.e. psoriasis, eczema, acne, etc.) it is strongly advised to begin with magnesium baths until the skin had a chance to start healing and become less sensitive to the higher concentration of magnesium chloride in the oil and gel.
Do I need to shower or rinse the magnesium off after using it?
Rinsing off magnesium oil or magnesium gel after use is a matter of personal preference, and depends on how much you apply and where it is applied on the body. Typically, the more magnesium oil or gel used per application, the higher likelihood you may prefer to rinse it off. In roughly twenty minutes your skin can take full advantage of topically applied magnesium, and it may be safely removed at that point. Keep in mind, also, that Ancient Minerals magnesium gel is designed not to be fully absorbed into the skin, so rinsing off after applying is a fairly common practice.
Please see our Magnesium Application and Usage Guide for more information.
Should I continue using other magnesium supplements orally if I am also using Ancient Minerals topically?
This is a matter of personal choice, often dependent on how well or how poorly each individual tolerates oral supplements. Ancient Minerals topical magnesium represents a welcome alternative:

For those who prefer to avoid the inconvenience of taking pills.

For those who experience loose stools, diarrhea or GI upset when taking oral supplements

For those who do have limited tolerance, Ancient Minerals provides much needed additional magnesium without side effects.
Why are oral magnesium supplements so difficult to absorb for most people?
There are two primary reasons:

Meaningful quantities of magnesium from dietary supplements have a tendency to create a laxative effect in the majority of users. This reduces transit time through the gastrointestinal tract and decreases overall absorption.

When large quantities of magnesium are taken in a single dose, a smaller overall percentage of magnesium is absorbed.

Get advice on the best magnesium supplements.
Will magnesium applied topically produce a laxative effect like oral magnesium supplements?
No, there is little to no potential for a laxative effect. This is a fundamental advantage of using Ancient Minerals magnesium products topically, as your skin can naturally self-regulate the absorption of minerals.

Learn more about the advantages of transdermal magnesium.
Where does Ancient Minerals come from?
The pristine source for Ancient Minerals magnesium products lies within a deep underground seabed in Northern Europe–nearly two miles beneath the surface—referred to as the Ancient Zechstein Sea. It is extracted from the earth by a process known as solution mining, and is globally the most coveted source of naturally occurring magnesium chloride in existence. For more information, please visit http://www.genuinezechstein.com/.
Is Ancient Minerals magnesuim “oil” actually oil?
No, although this is a common misconception. Magnesium “oil” is a term that was coined early in the development of transdermal magnesium therapy. It refers to the hygroscopic nature (attracts water molecules) of a highly saturated solution of magnesium chloride in water along with other trace elements. This super-saturated solution happens to present itself in an oil-like texture and lends itself particularly to absorption by the skin.
Is the magnesium chloride in Ancient Minerals “Pharmaceutical Grade” or “USP Grade”?
Many manufacturers rely on the phrases “Pharmaceutical Grade” and “USP Grade” to convey a sense of quality to consumers. Both “Pharmaceutical Grade” and “USP Grade” refer to the same thing–the public standards set forth by the United States Pharmacopeia.

There are several aspects of magnesium chloride defined by USP standards, but arguably the most important and controversial is the standard set for maximum allowable heavy metal content. This standard designates how much mercury, cadmium, lead and other toxic metals may be present while still receiving USP certification.

In the case of magnesium chloride, the USP standard allows for a maximum heavy metal content of 10 parts per million (ppm). Because transdermal magnesium chloride comes into direct contact with our skin, we should pay particular attention to the fact that these allowed elements are known toxins. Even as low as a single part per million of mercury can have negative effects.

What this means for you is that manufacturers can casually use the phrase “Pharmaceutical Grade” without telling you exactly what toxic heavy metals exist in the finished product, and at what levels–so long as these levels are below the USP limit.

By no means do we consider this an acceptable practice, and certainly not a suitable method to represent the purity of Ancient Minerals. For that reason, we refer to the “ultra-purity” of Ancient Minerals as being far beyond any pharmaceutical standard that exists in the world, period. We are completely transparent in our efforts to redefine purity.

Genuine Zechstein® lab results are available proudly to all who seek them. For more information on these results, please feel free to contact us.
I experience some tingling when I apply the Ancient Minerals magnesium oil or gel. Is this normal?
Some users of magnesium oil and magnesium gel with sensitive skin may experience tingling and/or slight irritation at the site of application due to the high concentration of magnesium chloride. This is completely harmless, and varies based on a number of factors, including how much is applied and where it is applied on the body.

Diluting the magnesium oil 1:1 with pure spring water can reduce this effect, although this is a matter of personal preference. Those who experience this effect also report that the tingling lessens with each subsequent application.

Another option is to choose Ancient Minerals magnesium lotion or magnesium bath flakes, for use in foot soaks and/or full body soaks, which offer a gentler form of transdermal magnesium therapy, for those with extremely sensitive or broken skin.

Read more in our Magnesium Application and Usage Guide.

MAGNETIC CLAY™ BATH

What is a Clay Slurry?

CLAY SLURRY:



In definition, clay slurries are an alternate method of preparing a traditional Magnetic Clay Bath.” Slurries are somewhat of a cross between a thin clay pack and a traditional clay bath, but provide a different detoxification effect than either of these two methods when used alone. A clay slurry involves packing clay on the body and then emerging into a warm bath.

HOW TO MAKE CLAY SLURRY:



Mix clay with warm water in a ratio that produces a mixture that is easily spreadable on the body (thick enough that it sticks). Use a non-metallic bowl and utensil when mixing. Apply 1/8″ to 1/4″ thick layer of clay over your body (arms, legs, torso).

Then enter a warm bath. As the clay disperses into the water, the same or maybe even better results may be realized versus adding all of the clay directly into the water.

It is worth noting, a fascinating occurrence has been observed by some when using clay slurries. After applying the slurry and immersing in the water, the clay has a tendency to adhere to certain areas. It stands to reason that this is a result of the strong ionic attraction between clay and many toxins. This event occurs rapidly with toxins that are close to the skin, and carries on with more lengthy exposure as the blood brings more toxins to the surface.

For more information about Magnetic Clay™ Bath, Clay Bath Benefits, Full Body Baths, Foot Baths, Post-Bath Care, Bath FAQs, or Shop Magnetic Clay™ Bath.
What should I do after I take a Magnetic Clay Bath?
Some minerals, vitamins, and electrolytes are also removed in the bath and need to be replaced immediately. It is recommended to take a ‘green superfood’ product containing spirulina, blue-green algae, chlorella, wheatgrass or similar nutrients as they have the majority of vitamins, minerals, strengthening your immune system. Although it contains sugars, coconut water is mineral-rich and makes for a good base for green superfood powders. We also recommend juicing spinach, kale, parsley, cilantro and other dark, leafy greens.
Is the Magnetic Clay Bath good for everyone?
It is recommended that anyone with a heart condition, high blood pressure, pregnant/breastfeeding women, and anyone taking prescription medications or any medical situation, should postpone the bath and check with your doctor or certified therapist. It may be acceptable to take a clay ‘pack’ instead of the bath or a clay ‘foot bath’. Although these are not as effective as a full tub bath, they work more slowly and gently. Foot baths can be done more often though, usually every 2 to 3 days. These baths also have had great success with children. See our instructions section and the Children’s Guidelines. Also see testimonials about children.
How do I know if the Magnetic Clay Bath is working for me?
The clay that settles to the bottom of the tub during the bath has adsorbed the impurities and toxins drawn from the body (as well as those in the water). This clay may appear darker than the rest, even black. The color of the water in the tub may also change. Even if the color does not change, toxins are still being pulled out. You may experience a feeling of physical or emotional relief, headache, fatigue, or a general sensation of ‘lightness’ after the bath. A symptom of nausea, or a ‘pulling’ effect from the stomach or other areas indicates toxins moving. All of these are normal reactions.

Of course, testing can be done by laboratories, before and after the bath. We feel that the fecal/stool test is the most accurate and can be ordered through Direct Laboratories or your doctor through Doctor’s Data. Contact us for sources for having this done.
How do I prepare for a Magnetic Clay Bath?
It is helpful, but not necessary, to eat a cleansing diet with fresh, organic fruits and vegetables and herbal cleansing teas several weeks prior to the bath. Also, you can boost your immune system with ‘green foods’ such as Chlorella (some chlorellas have mercury in them so be careful), spirulina, blue-green algae, or micro clusters. It is very helpful to get one’s pH to a normal range of 7.0 to 7.4 as studies show the “dumping process” of toxins releasing from the body is greater, quicker, and more efficient when at the normal level. So if one wants to “speed up” the process of releasing toxins, keep the pH at 7.0 to 7.4 which is considered normal levels.
How often should I take a Magnetic Clay Bath?
It is suggested a series of three or six baths in the beginning, spacing them a week or two apart depending upon the user’s health status. Thereafter, do a ‘spring cleaning’ detox bath and an ‘autumn cleaning’ detox bath to keep the metals and chemicals out! However, toxic substances absorbed over many years may be stored deep in the tissues. For these more entrenched toxic conditions, a more rigorous and long term plan to detoxify the body may be necessary. A hair or stool analysis can be used to determine the extent of the bio-accumulation, and other products can be used to aid in the detoxification process.
How does the Magnetic Clay Bath work?
Bentonite clay is a highly adsorbent substance. Unlike absorption, in which fluid permeates or is dissolved by a substance, adsorption is the adhesion of ions, atoms or molecules to a surface. In this case, the surface energy of the bentonite clay is what draws specific toxins (adsorbates) to it as if they were “pulled by a magnetic field”.

The skin’s function is as a pathway rather than a barrier and is one of the primary organs of the body utilized for detoxification. While submersed in a tub of very warm water mixed with the bentonite clay, the high adsorbency draws bio-accumulated toxins from within the body, which then adheres to the surface of the clay.
What is a Magnetic Clay Bath?
Magnetic Clay™ Baths are a very fine, mineral-rich, clay called [Sodium] Bentonite in its pure form without harmful, commercial emulsifiers. There are over 200 different kinds of Bentonite clay and many of them have a variety of uses and results. Most of them have 15% to 75% aluminum in it. Magnetic Clay Baths have tremendous pulling power due to its high negative (good) charge. We have tested and researched many different clays from around the world and found none that compare with our clay for removal of chemical and metal toxicity.

NASCENT IODINE

Can Nascent Iodine be used for iodine loading?
No. This is not the form of iodine that would normally be used for that purpose. Nascent Iodine is an elemental form of iodine, where in which the molecular bonds of iodine are broken down and the free atoms retain an electromagnetic charge. This form is meant for maximum bioavailability by the body and is not recommended for iodine loading.
Can I add Nascent Iodine to my smoothie or juice?
Nascent Iodine is activated in water only. We do not recommend taking Nascent Iodine with anything other than water, on an empty stomach. Mixing Nascent Iodine with anything other than water will diminish its energetic properties and bioavailability.
Can I use Nascent Iodine topically?
Nascent Iodine is not a suitable form of iodine for topical use. This is an elemental form of iodine, in an alcohol base, (as opposed to the molecular form) and is specifically meant to be recognized by the body as the most bioavailable and efficient form of iodine. Nascent Iodine is in an atomic, body-ready state, and is effortlessly absorbed when consumed.