Have you ever felt an involuntary stiffness, hardness, or bulging in your muscles? Well, that’s termed a muscle spasm and this type of cramping can occur to anyone for many reasons and in most regions of your body.
A spasm in the abdomen, arms, hands, and feet is common. You can also feel them in the calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps. Strenuous exercise and vigorous sports activities are the reasons for simple muscle spasms.
Muscle relaxation is vital for easing tension, mitigating pain, and promoting flexibility. Natural alternatives offer respite to pain and are preferred owing to their fewer side effects.
Here are five of the best natural muscle relaxers, their benefits, mechanisms, and potential side effects:
5 Top Muscle Relaxant Supplements
Magnesium
Magnesium is a key mineral that holds a vital role in the proper working of several bodily processes including muscle function and relaxation. It helps regulate neurotransmitters that control muscle contractions. Lack of magnesium in the diet can lead to deficiency resulting in muscle cramps and spasms. Benefits of adding magnesium supplements include reduced muscle tension, improved sleep quality, and enhanced exercise performance. Some of the side effects of using magnesium supplements include diarrhoea, stomach upset, and nausea.
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Chamomile
Chamomile is a powerful herb known for its natural calming effects. It is imbued with bioactive compounds that act as natural muscle relaxants, helping to reduce muscle spasms and tension. Consuming chamomile tea is a perfect way to promote relaxation. Some of the merits of having chamomile tea include reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and muscle relaxation. A few people may have allergic reactions.
Also Read: 5 Astounding Benefits Of Chamomile That You Should Know
Valerian Root
Valerian root is another potent herb known for its calming properties. It contains compounds that increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain, relaxing the muscles and nervous system. Adding valerian extract offers several health incentives including reduced muscle tension, improved sleep, and anxiety relief. Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, and stomach upset.
Passionflower
Passionflower is a plant known for its soothing properties. It contains compounds that increase GABA levels in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. Passionflower tea is best known for reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and muscle relaxation. Side effects are usually rare but may include drowsiness and dizziness.
CBD Oil
CBD or cannabidiol oil is extracted from the cannabis plant that does not contain any harmful psychoactive compound THC. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving traits, making it a popular natural muscle relaxer. CBD oil can be used topically or externally as your healthcare provider advises. Some advantages of CBD oil include reduced muscle tension, pain relief, and relaxation. Generally, adverse effects are rare but may include nausea, fatigue, and irritability.
Before using any supplements it is suggested to get advice from a healthcare provider, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on any medications. Though natural remedies can be effective, they may not be ideal for everyone and may interact with certain medications.
References:
Herbs and natural supplements in the prevention and treatment of delayed-onset muscle soreness
Abbas Meamarbashi
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5329173/
Muscle Relaxant
A muscle relaxant that is used to kill vermin and also used in homeopathic medicine, it interferes with spinal cord glycine function.
Konnie H. Plumlee DVM, MS, Dipl ABVT, ACVIM, in Clinical Veterinary Toxicology,
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/veterinary-science-and-veterinary-medicine/muscle-relaxant
