Cramps are painful sensations that occur when a muscle is forcibly contracted and does not relax as it normally does. By using our arms and legs, the muscles contract and we relax with the movement. If a muscle contracts involuntarily, which is known as a spasm and if the spasm continues and lasts for a short time, then it is known as a cramp.
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Why cramps happen
Cramps can last a few seconds to fifteen minutes and even longer. The cramp can appear in one part of the muscle or the entire muscle. Sometimes several muscles working together are involved. There is a tightening of the muscle affected by the cramp.
Where cramps occur
It generally involves the voluntary muscles of the arms, legs, feet, and calves. But cramps also involve the involuntary muscles of various organs such as the uterus, intestines and urinary tract are also subject to cramps. The common causes of muscle and skeletal cramps are caused by a deficiency of magnesium, sodium or potassium that also causes muscle fatigue.
Best home remedies for cramps
The following home remedies can be very helpful in treating cramps and are also effective in helping to prevent them.
Sodium bicarbonate
The sodium bicarbonate is used not only in cooking but also in the treatment of various diseases and conditions. Baking soda is the most effective remedy for pain, be it leg cramps or abdominal cramps, it has powerful abilities to dissipate quickly and effectively.
The alkaline nature of baking soda neutralizes the acid that forms in the muscles and provides immediate relief. Every time you feel a cramp, mix half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it quickly. Special care should be taken in people with high blood pressure.
Physical activity
The best way to keep your muscles cramp-free is to exercise regularly for at least half an hour each day. Exercises like swimming, brisk walking, and cycling will keep your muscles toned and fit.
Exercise will also improve circulation and help strengthen muscles. If you have cramps frequently and especially at night, then you should adopt a regular exercise routine to prevent them.
Mustard oil to avoid cramps
Mustard oil has myriad benefits and healing powers. It is packed with valuable nutrients that strengthen the body while keeping us nourished. It is high in selenium and magnesium and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
To avoid cramps, you can massage your legs and arms with pure mustard oil. Massage thoroughly for fifteen minutes, twice a day. The magnesium in the oil will provide the life force for the muscles and help them relax naturally.
Epsom salt
the Epsom salt has been used as a muscle relaxant agent since time immemorial. This salt is extremely rich in magnesium, which is very important for healthy muscles. It also contains large amounts of sulfate that help eliminate toxins from the body and detoxify it, this being one of the causes of muscle cramps as well.
Low levels of magnesium can lead to cramps, Epsom salts can retain magnesium and it turns out to be the best remedy to treat cramps. Mix a cup of Epsom salts into the hot bath water and soak or soak in the water for half an hour. The skin will absorb the magnesium present in the salt and help relax the muscles.
Consume a lot of water
Muscle cramps are often caused by dehydration so it is important to drink plenty of water every day. Drink at least eight to nine glasses of water every day to stay well hydrated. Water also removes toxins from the body and helps keep it cool.