¤ The ‘story' of magnesium chloride began during the First World War. In 1915, A French surgeon, Professor Delbet, was sent to the Front where he was alarmed by the number of wounded soldiers dying from infections despite widespread use of antiseptics. Having experimented with various products in solution on cell cultures, he discovered that magnesium chloride significantly increased phagocytosis (the capacity of white blood cells to destroy harmful particles).

¤ He concluded that a magnesium chloride solution was by far the most effective at cleaning and dressing wounds. He described his experiments in an article entitled “Cytophylaxis” which he submitted to the French Academy of Medicine in September 1945.

¤ In another communication, Professor Delbet described his research into the efficacy of injected magnesium chloride.

¤ In 1928, fascinated by the work of Grignard on the power of organo-magnesic compounds, he began to add small amounts of other halogenated magnesium salts to the chloride. Gradually, Professor Delbet discovered that magnesium chloride was beneficial for a wide range of diseases, including those of the skin and digestive system, allergies and circulatory disorders. He also found it gave his patients more energy. His research ultimately led him to conclude that magnesium chloride had preventive effects against cancer and could be used to treat precancerous lesions.

¤ In 1932, another French physician, Dr. Neveu, revisited Professor Delbet's research, citing 15 cases of polio which had been treated by magnesium chloride. He went on to report its efficacy for a number of respiratory tract infections, including the common cold, flu, bronchitis and pneumonia, as well as for gastro-enteritis and abscesses or infected wounds.

¤ Despite the impressive findings of these two doctors in relation to magnesium chloride, it must be said that few studies validated by scientific review panels have been published. However, a large number of alternative medicine practitioners choose to use it on a daily basis to restore energy in cases of fatigue, prevent or treat infectious diseases including winter ailments, and even to treat gastro-enteritis. It is administered either orally, or as an antiseptic solution in the case of skin problems.

¤ MgCl2, in vegetarian capsule form, offers the consumer a considerable advantage in that it disguises the unpalatable taste of this supplement. Those who prefer to take it in the form of a drink, can empty the capsule's contents into a glass of water.