In the calf, foot or thigh, here are grandmother’s remedies (or more recent ones) to relieve a cramp.
A cramp corresponds to involuntary contracture of one or more musclesFor example on the calf, foot or thigh. It is often due to a lack of warm-up, fatigue, a lack of hydration or to a mineral deficiency. Tour of the most effective remedies with Sylvie Hampikian, pharmacologist specializing in alternative medicine.
1. Marseille soap in the bed
It may be THE grandmother’s remedy the most famous against night cramps. No scientific confirmation but many people who suffer from cramps support the effectiveness of Marseille’s soap to relieve them. This benefit would be linked to its richness in potassium carbonate which would neutralize the acidity responsible for cramps. Concretely, just slip a piece of soap (green or cream) between the sheets or even under the pillow (in a glove for example) and leave it there for more days. Some also rub directly dry at the level of the cramp.
2. Apple cider vinegar, 3 times a day
The richness of cider vinegar in potassium and magnesium is an asset to fight against the appearance of cramps and aches. It can be used externally, by adding 2 cups of cider vinegar to your bath water or internally, by taking a teaspoon of cider vinegar in a glass of water, ideally 3 times a day for a month.
3. Magnesium, as a food supplement
A Magnesium deficiency can cause muscle contractures. Each day, our needs amount to approximately 360 mg. This mineral is found in particular in whole grains, legumes such as lentils, white and red beans, oilseed fruits such as Brazil nuts and almonds as well as chocolate. But if you are prone to cramps, magnesium supplementation may be useful to you. Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor about it.
4. Arnica oil: decongests the muscles
Already sovereign in overcoming bruises and bumps, theArnica oil has no equal for calming aches and cramps thanks to its relaxing, decontracting, analgesic and decongestant properties. Apply the preparation with a light massage to the sore area. It can also be used for prevention, before a sports session for example, if you know a muscle is prone to cramps and stiffness.
5. Wintergreen essential oil, powerful analgesic
Wintergreen essential oil has powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties against muscle pain. “It is used diluted at a rate of 15 drops in 25 ml of vegetable oil. Apply a few drops as a massage, once or twice a day”, advises our expert. But be careful, wintergreen essential oil should not be used in people allergic to aspirin or under anticoagulant treatment. In this case, use ginger essential oil or lemon eucalyptus oil. Essential oils are not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children under 7 years old. This advice does not replace the advice of a doctor or pharmacist. If symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor promptly.
6. A cup of rooibos, an anti-cramp ally
Also called “Rooibos”, “red tea” is a hot or cold drink very rich in minerals: a 200 ml cup provides iron, ideal for anemic people, potassium and magnesium essential for muscle contraction. Thanks to this nutritional richness, Rooibos is a wonderful ally for calming muscle cramps and preventing their recurrence.
7. Passionflower, known to relax the brain
For basic treatment, particularly for cramps occurring at night, the passionflower is sovereign: it is muscle relaxant and known to relax the nervous system. To be taken in the form of glycerin macerate: one teaspoonful morning and evening for 20 days, particularly if you have to make a significant sporting effort in order to avoid the occurrence of this pain.
8. Oilessential lavender, relaxing
There is no one more versatile than her! Lavender essential oil was already known to treat headaches or stress, but it is also very effective in overcoming cramps thanks to its relaxing, muscle-relaxing and analgesic properties. “Dilute 30 to 40 drops of this essential oil in 50 ml of vegetable oil (olive, sunflower, macadamia, etc.) and apply a few drops of this preparation to the painful limb. Rub to heat the sore muscle and relax it,” recommends Sylvie Hampikian.
9. Honey, rich in potassium
Here again, its richness in nutrients (B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, antioxidants, etc.) helps fight cramps. “Take a tablespoon of acacia honey, richer in potassium and magnesium, before each of the 3 main meals for 8 days,” recommends Sylvie Hampikian.
Thanks to Sylvie Hampikian, pharmacologist specializing in alternative medicine.