Muscle Cramp: Here’s How To Calm It Down
Muscle soreness and cramping can be linked to many factors. Generally we know what caused them, but in other cases they take us by surprise and we cannot trace the cause.
Among the possible reasons we certainly find stress, muscle tension, excessive effort, a sudden movement, a fall, or sometimes even a fever.
It is therefore important to know how to treat those pains that prevent us from carrying out our usual activities and force us to always think about pain.
Next to muscle pain, we find muscle cramp , which is the involuntary and painful contraction of the muscle. So here is a small natural first aid kit.
DIY remedies to relieve a muscle cramp
Natural ingredients are the ideal solution for some ailments. If you want to try the best treatments for muscle pain and cramps, make a note of this list.
1. Hot water
Warm or lukewarm water is perfect for relaxing your muscles. It is the first home remedy that we recommend: simple and effective.
- The best way to calm a muscle cramp is to fill a hot water bottle. Alternatively, use a cloth soaked in warm water. Applied directly to the muscle, it stimulates blood circulation as well as relieving tension and inflammation.
- You can also take advantage of the heat offered by a hot shower.
2. Rosemary
It is a medicinal plant with numerous properties. In this case we will prepare an infusion to treat the inflammation. Moisten a cloth and apply it to the affected area.
- If you can find rosemary oil, you can massage the muscle with gentle but firm movements.
3. Get more potassium
Potassium deficiency can be the basis of a very strong muscle cramp. To prevent it, you can increase the consumption of foods that are rich in it, such as bananas.
Don’t like the taste? Mix it with other seasonal fruit and make a smoothie.
4. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has fantastic properties, in the therapeutic and domestic fields. It is effective against muscle pain and cramps. Use it to combat muscle tension.
- To take advantage of its benefits, immerse the affected area, if possible, in a container containing water and two cups of apple cider vinegar (500 ml).
- Alternatively, apply a gauze or cloth impregnated with this solution and leave it for half an hour.
5. Ice
One of the first things that comes to mind when we have a muscle problem is ice cubes. They are powerful natural anti-inflammatories, to always keep at home.
- Apply the cold by placing a few ice cubes in a plastic bag and wrapping it in a thin cloth. Avoid bringing the ice into direct contact with the skin, to avoid burns.
- Blot the area for a quarter of an hour. You can repeat this treatment 2-3 times a day or if necessary.
6. Infusion of valerian
One of the most relaxing plants is undoubtedly valerian. You can prepare an infusion: it will act on both physical and mental tension.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
- 1 tablespoon of valerian (15 g)
Preparation
- Add a tablespoon of valerian to a cup of boiling water. Leave to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.
- After this time, filter and drink.
The ideal time to consume it is at night, before going to bed, so as to allow the body to regenerate during the hours of rest.
7. Lavender oil
If you often suffer from cramps, make lavender oil your ally. As well as valerian, also there lavender has relaxing properties, starting with its excellent scent. It is in fact often used as an environmental deodorant.
- Get natural lavender oil at a herbalist’s shop or make your own.
- Apply it on the painful area and massage until completely absorbed.
As you have seen, these are very simple tips to follow, but very effective. But remember: the best way to prevent muscle aches or cramps is to treat quality of life, with a healthy diet, physical activity and less stress.
