Related Terms

• Aluminum, arsenic, calcium, calcium carbonate, calcium supplements, carbonate rock, ceramics, dietary calcium supplements, dolomite novelties, dolomite phosphate rock (DPR) fertilizers, dolomite rock, dolomitic limestone, dolostone, magnesian limestone, magnesium, metal, metal exposure, mineral dolomite, potassium, silicon, soapstone (steatite) cookware, transvaal dolomite.

Background

• Dolomite is a sedimentary carbonate rock or mineral composed of calcium magnesium carbonate crystals. Dolomite was first described in 1791 by the French naturalist and geologist Déodat Gratet de Dolomieu (1750-1801). He observed dolomite in a mountain group in northern Italy, now named the Dolomite Alps. Dolomite rock (or dolostone) is mainly composed of the mineral dolomite. Dolomitic limestone (or magnesian limestone) is limestone that has been partially replaced by dolomite.

• Dolomite is commonly used for its potential ability to act as a calcium and magnesium supplement, although its safety and effectiveness as such have yet to be proven. Evidence supporting dolomite's use in any condition in humans is lacking.

Scientific Evidence

Tradition/Theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious and should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.

• Antacid, antiviral, nutritional supplement.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older)

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for dolomite in adults. A dose of 45-483 milligrams of magnesium taken by mouth daily has been taken by mouth. A dose of 1000 milligrams of calcium taken by mouth daily, up to 50 years of age, and 1200 milligrams of calcium daily after the age of 50 has also been taken by mouth. However, it is unclear if dolomite is a safe and effective means of fulfilling daily requirements for calcium or magnesium.

Children (under 18 years old)

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for dolomite in children. Some supplements, which may be derived from dolomite, have been found to contain unsafe levels of lead for children six years of age and under, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This may pose the greatest risk to children with lactose intolerance, who may rely on calcium supplements as an alternative to dairy products

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

• Avoid with known allergy or hypersensitivity to dolomite. However, allergic reactions to dolomite have not been reported in the available literature.

Side Effects and Warnings

• Acid rebound (increased secretion of stomach acid after discontinuing antacid treatment), alkalosis (body fluids contain excess base), constipation, diarrhea, gastrointestinal irritation, granulomas (in patients with sarcoidosis), high blood calcium, kidney stones, metabolic acidosis (body fluids contain excess acid), muscular problems (such as weakness), nausea, respiratory problems (including the development of nodules on the lungs), seizure (in patients with seizure disorders), and vomiting have been reported.

• Large amounts of magnesium may cause high levels of magnesium in the blood, with symptoms including low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, cardiac arrest, loss of tendon reflexes, and/or muscle weakness.

• Use caution when taking by mouth. Dolomite may contain potentially toxic metals, including lead, arsenic, and mercury, which may lead to skin, blood, or neurologic disorders.

• Avoid in pregnant or breastfeeding women and children due to a lack of available scientific evidence.

• Avoid with known allergy or hypersensitivity to dolomite. However, allergic reactions to dolomite have not been reported in the available literature.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Avoid in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

• Dolomite may interact with antiviral drugs, calcium salts, or drugs with hormonal effects.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

• Dolomite may interact with antiviral herbs or supplements, calcium, magnesium, or herbs and supplements with hormonal effects.

Author Information

• This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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13. Selden AI, Berg NP, Lundgren EA, et al. Exposure to tremolite asbestos and respiratory health in Swedish dolomite workers. Occup Environ Med 2001;58(10):670-677. View Abstract

14. Steenkamp V, Stewart MJ, Curowska E, et al. A severe case of multiple metal poisoning in a child treated with a traditional medicine. Forensic Sci Int. 2002;128(3):123-126. View Abstract

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