Cramps: Why Do They Occur And How To Treat Them Naturally?

Next we will tell you more about cramps and also, what measures can help you both to avoid them and to treat them. You will be surprised how easy they are to do!

Muscle cramps are an annoying symptom, which can appear from a variety of causes and usually does not indicate a serious problem. How is it experienced? Suddenly, like a kind of pull in some area of ​​the body, especially the lower extremities. It is therefore an involuntary contraction that causes discomfort.

To get the muscle to relax and the pain to disappear, you can resort to several very simple measures. For the most part, these measures are a set of healthy habits that provide well-being. Hence they are so helpful.

Why do cramps occur?

There are many reasons why a person can experience cramps, during rest or activity. Some of the most common causes are as follows:

• Dehydration 
• Muscular fatigue.
• Lack of exercise.
• Overstressing. 
• Emotional stress
• Sudden contact with cold water.
• Lactic acid accumulation (common in athletes).
• Maintaining an incorrect posture for a long time.
• Making sudden movements with cold muscles.

• Lack of blood supply in the area due to insufficient oxygen.

Other causes

• Pregnancy.
• Alcoholism.
• Overweight.
• Metabolism disorders.
• Renal insufficiency.
• Intake of certain medications.
• Nutrient deficiency (vitamins or minerals, such as potassium and magnesium).

Tips to avoid and relieve cramps

When the cramps or muscle spasms appear, the best thing to do is to try to stretch, little by little, the affected area so that the blood can circulate freely and thus, the muscle can relax.

Once the discomfort diminishes its intensity, you can resort to relaxing massages. In some cases, the doctor may order physical therapy.

Another type of easy to carry out measures is to maintain good sleep hygiene. If your legs cramp often, each time you get home, hold them up for a few minutes. You can also sleep with your feet on one or more cushions.

Of course, daily exercise, a good diet and hydration are measures that contribute a lot, to avoid these discomforts and to enjoy good health.

Nutritious and balanced diet

To avoid cramps, include in your diet those foods that are rich in calcium, potassium and magnesium, such as: oranges, almonds, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, soybeans, dairy products, nuts, whole grains, cocoa, beans, seaweed and soy flour.

Eating a banana a day, before or after exercise will help you avoid cramps. On the other hand, don’t neglect hydration.

Daily exercise

When it comes to exercise, stretching is essential. The practice of certain disciplines, such as yoga, Pilates, tai chi, among others, can help reduce the frequency of muscle cramps.

It must be remembered that doing physical activity for at least half an hour a day is necessary to activate circulation and thus adequately oxygenate the muscles, tissues and joints. 

Natural remedies for cramps

Infusion of gingko biloba

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons of gingko biloba.
• 1 cup of water.

Preparation

• Boil both for 10 minutes, remove, let infuse, strain and drink daily.

Rosemary and olive oil

Ingredients

• Rosemary essential oil (although there is no evidence that scientifically corroborates its qualities).
• Olive oil.

Preparation

• Mix both oils in equal parts (a few drops will suffice) and heat between your hands.
• Then apply to the area affected by the cramp, so that the heat and the properties of the oils help soothe the pain.

Honey and apple cider vinegar

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of honey.
• Water (required amount).
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

Preparation

• Mix everything and drink immediately (without burning yourself), so that the calcium is distributed in a balanced way throughout the body.

Mustard seeds

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds.
• 1 liter of water.

Preparation

• Boil everything for 10 minutes.
• Fill the bathtub and pour the previous mixture.
• Take a soaking bath until the water cools.

Other recommendations

• Stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Avoid tight clothing.
• Take a warm bath before sleeping.
• Practice various relaxation techniques.
• Do exercises that help you strengthen your ankles.

Do not forget that you must be consistent with your lifestyle habits to achieve the well-being you want. On the other hand, in case the cramps persist or are unbearable, see your doctor for an evaluation and early diagnosis.