What are the best natural muscle relaxers? How can you use them effectively? Find out the top natural antispasmodics and their benefits.

Cherries and Tart Cherry Juice as Natural Muscle Relaxants

Cherries are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them potential natural muscle relaxants. A 2018 review found that cherries could reduce pain and muscle damage resulting from exercise. However, some of the studies used strong cherry concentrate rather than whole fruits, which is important to consider when evaluating the evidence. Tart cherry juice is available for purchase online and may provide similar benefits.

Blueberries and Their Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Blueberries are an excellent source of antioxidants and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory effects. A small study found that blueberry supplementation may improve exercise performance and decrease inflammatory markers. Reducing inflammation can help the muscles relax and recover after exercise.

Protein Intake for Muscle Recovery

Adequate protein intake after exercise could help reduce muscle inflammation. A review looking at exercise-induced muscle damage in women found that supplementing with whey and casein, two types of protein, reduced muscle damage. Another small study looked at 16 novice marathon runners, and runners who received a combination of protein and carbohydrate during the race felt less muscle soreness 72 hours after the marathon than those who had consumed carbohydrate only. Various protein powders are available for purchase online.

Magnesium: The Vital Mineral for Muscle Contractions

Magnesium is vital for nearly all bodily functions, especially proper muscle contractions. Foods high in magnesium include almonds, cashews, spinach, black beans, and edamame. People can also take magnesium supplements, although older adults and infants should only take these if a doctor prescribes them. High doses of magnesium may cause stomach cramps and diarrhea.

Curcumin, a Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Compound

Turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger all contain curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Some research has shown that curcumin may decrease inflammatory markers after exercise. Taking a curcumin supplement or incorporating turmeric, cinnamon, or ginger into a healthful diet may help relax the muscles. Women who are breastfeeding or pregnant should avoid consuming too much curcumin.

Pomegranate Juice for Faster Muscle Recovery

Pomegranates contain large amounts of polyphenols, and their juice has a potentially three times higher antioxidant capacity than green tea. One study on elite weightlifters found that pomegranate juice may help speed up muscle recovery. Pomegranate juice is available for purchase online.

Arnica: Topical Application for Reducing Bruising

Arnica is a common ingredient in creams and oils for reducing bruising. People should only use arnica topically because ingesting high doses can be life-threatening. While some people use arnica as a muscle relaxer, researchers have yet to prove its effectiveness. Some older studies on marathon runners found that the use of arnica might reduce muscle soreness, but another study found that it had no effect.

Capsaicin: Pain Relief for Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Capsaicin occurs naturally in the pith or fleshy part of chili peppers and may provide effective pain relief for people with fibromyalgia. Some research has shown that applying capsaicin to the skin could have a positive effect on muscle soreness. Capsaicin cream is available for purchase online. However, capsaicin may be more appropriate as a treatment for nerve pain rather than inflammatory muscle pain, as researchers believe it reduces the density of nerve fibers underneath the skin.

In summary, natural antispasmodics like cherries, blueberries, protein, magnesium, curcumin, pomegranate juice, arnica, and capsaicin may offer effective muscle relaxation and recovery. Incorporating these natural remedies into your lifestyle can help alleviate muscle tightness, soreness, and pain without relying on synthetic medications.