Leg cramps refer to a condition wherein a muscle in the leg is contracted and this causes uneasiness and severe pain. Although this condition can affect anybody, it is common in elderly people. Some of the areas like quadriceps hamstring and calf muscles are more prone to leg cramps.
Rigorous exercises, muscle fatigue, dehydration, overweight, reduced blood supply, fluid imbalances and nerve abnormalities can be some of the reasons for this condition. This sudden muscle spasm can also be due to nutritional deficiency or the side effect of certain medications. There are a number of home remedies to treat leg cramps, which are quite effective.
Home Remedies to Treat Leg Cramps
Coconut Oil
Massage the affected part thoroughly using coconut oil. This will relieve the pain caused due to cramps.
Green Tea
You can ease the pain due to leg cramps by drinking green tea. Herbs like ginger and cloves can also be added to the tea.
Vegetable/Fruit Juice
When you regularly experience leg cramps, it is important to boost up the mineral intake. Chronic leg cramps are noticed in people who do not get enough potassium (important for nerve and muscle function) and calcium (vital for muscle relaxation). Therefore, it is advisable to increase the consumption of potatoes, yogurt, bananas and low-fat milk.
Also, you can prepare juice using cabbage (1 wedge), avocado (one complete fruit) and broccoli (3 spears). Blend all the ingredients and consume this tasty drink to get the daily requirement of minerals. Cabbage is an antioxidant and is rich in beta-carotene as well. It helps the body to deal with stress.
Lemon
The leg cramps that occur after a workout can be treated by drinking lemon juice with a small pinch of salt added to it.
Vinegar
You can get relief by rubbing down the affected region with vinegar. A cloth soaked in vinegar is placed on various areas of the leg , including joints.
Mustard
The acetic acid in mustard is used by the body to make acetylcholine. This acts as a very good stimulant for the leg muscles.
Hot Shower
The cramped leg muscles can be relaxed by taking hot shower. The heat will help the muscles to loosen up.
Also Read
Herbal Remedies For Leg Cramps
Home Remedies For Cramps
Natural Cure For Leg Cramps
Apple Cider Vinegar
A mixture of honey (1 tsp) and apple cider vinegar (2 tsp) is added to a glass of warm water. This is consumed to prevent leg cramps.
Honey
The recurrence of leg cramps can be avoided in the night by taking honey (2 tsp) with the meals regularly.
Rooibos Tea
The minerals and vitamins present in the tea will help in preventing the leg cramps. The tea must be consumed at night, before the bed time.
Banana
Eating a banana every day after your meal will cure the cramps quickly, as they are a very good source of potassium. Try to eat two bananas per day.
Pumpkin Seeds
Electrolyte imbalance is caused due to the deficiency of magnesium. According to the book – ‘The doctors book of home remedies’, munching on pumpkin seeds will help you in getting extra magnesium. You can eat the seeds by toasting them in the oven or mix them in the trail mix.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.