Natural Remedies That May Help Relieve Muscle Cramps

Do you get muscle cramps often? If so, read this article to discover natural remedies that may help relieve the pain they cause.

Reviewed and approved by Doctor Carlos Fabián Avila.

Written by Katherine Flórez

Last update: 04 August, 2022

Muscle cramps are sudden contractions or spasms that occur when one or more of your muscle groups contract by force and don’t relax, regardless of any motion you attempt.

When you have these involuntary contractions it can immediately cause discomfort. However, if the spasm continues along with a painful sensation, this is what is technically called a muscle cramp.

The condition usually affects a single muscle or part of one, creating tension that prevents you from moving that part of your body naturally. But it can also affect an entire muscle group, which usually causes intense pain.

What causes muscle cramps and which parts of the body are the most affected?

In some cases, muscle cramps are caused by nerves that malfunction. This can be caused by another health problem like a spinal cord injury or a pinched nerve in your neck or back.

In most cases, however, muscle cramps are triggered when a particular part of the body is overused or injured as a result of excess strain. They can also occur when:

• You exercise without being hydrated (dehydration).
• You have low levels of minerals like potassium and calcium.
• Also, when you have circulatory problems.

The most affected groups of the body are the voluntary muscles:

• The arms.
• The legs.
• The feet.
• Calves.

However, in certain situations, the involuntary muscles are affected, including:

• The uterus.
• The intestines.
• The urinary tract.

Is there a natural way to help treat muscle cramps?

The pain and tension caused by this problem may be treated with some natural remedies that may help relax your muscles and provide relief.

First of all, when you feel the first hint of a contraction or spasm, we recommend that you try to stretch and massage the area to promote relaxation.

After this, it’s a good idea to consider some of the following treatments that will relieve your problem completely.

Hydration

Your body is mostly made up of water, hence the importance of drinking sufficient quantities every day.

Some signs of dehydration include:

• Feeling thirsty.
• Tiredness or fatigue.
• Headaches.
• Nausea or dizziness.
• Increased heart rate.
• Elevated body temperature.
• Dark, foul-smelling urine.
• Pale skin with dark eye bags.

Baking soda

Baking soda is a common product with many uses in the home that may also help treat a variety of ailments.

The properties of baking soda may help  treat cramps and spasms in your abdominal area and limbs.

Due to the fact that it’s highly alkaline, baking soda may be effective in neutralizing the acid that builds up in your muscles that causes these annoying cramps.

How should you use it?

• Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water and drink it immediately.

*This is not recommended for people who suffer from high blood pressure.

Exercise

Some recommended exercises include:

• Swimming.
• Brisk walking.
• Jogging.
• Riding your bicycle.
• Climbing the stairs.

Epsom salts

Epsom salts have been used to soothe various parts of the body for hundreds of years. They’re rich in magnesium, a mineral that can be absorbed through the skin and may also help keep your muscles  strong and healthy.

How should you use it?

• Dissolve a cup of Epsom salts into warm bath water and soak for half an hour.
• When you absorb the minerals, this will help your muscles relax.

Celery and cucumber juice

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of celery
• 1/2 cucumber
• A cup of water (200 ml)

Preparation

• Peel and cut the cucumber, then add it to the blender with the celery and cup of water.
• Blend until smooth.
• Drink this chilled before starting any physical activity.