Muscle Aches/Spasms/Cramps
When muscles feel pain, soreness, or stiffness, it’s usually due to one of two reasons: overexertion or a cramp. Overexertion, or overdoing some physical activity, can bring on what doctors call delayed onset muscle soreness, or DOMS.
A cramp (involuntary spasm) comes on suddenly and unexpectedly. Unable to relax, it causes severe pain that usually lasts for a few minutes.
Helpful Supplements
- Calcium and Magnesium taken regularly will help proper muscle contraction. Magnesium is more directed at an acute muscle spasm or strain. It helps synthesize proteins for muscle repair and strengthens nerve conduction and energy metabolism; both are needed for healing.
- Malic Acid can be very beneficial for a soft-tissue injury because it enhances the absorption of magnesium.
- Valerian may help if muscle soreness interferes with sleep; take the herb a half hour before bedtime.
- Arnica (topical application) eases the Inflammation/pain of muscle strains and sprains caused by overuse or injury.
- Boswella is a powerful anti-inflammatory that can be taken orally or applied topically.
- Kava Kava can help when you need a daytime muscle relaxant; the herb has a non-sedating tranquilizing effect.
- Bromelain is a natural anti-inflammatory derived from pineapple.
- White Willow Bark is an effective natural pain reliever that contains salicyn, the same pain relieving component found in aspirin. Don’t combine with aspirin or aspirin like medications, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Creatine may aid in the repair of microscopic muscle and ligament tears.
- Glucosamine is a supplement better known for its effect on arthritic joints; it may also be helpful in healing muscle tissue.
- Eucalyptus Oil or Cayenne Cream in a topical application can help stimulate blood flow, relieve pain, and generate a feeling of warmth.
