In order to find the best natural muscle relaxant, it is a good idea to try to determine what is causing your muscle pain. In many cases, muscle pain or stiffness could indicate an injury, in which case you may need the assistance of a physician. A natural muscle relaxant will not heal injuries, however, in some cases, this type of supplement may ease some of the discomfort and stiffness resulting from an injury. If you do decide to try a natural remedy, you might want to try kava, catnip, or vervain. Rosemary and chamomile are also believed to induce muscle relaxation.
Kava is a dietary supplement that comes from a type of pepper plant commonly found in the Pacific Islands. It has long been used to reduce stress, and in clinical studies, the herb did appear to have the effect of relaxing muscles. Extended or overuse of kava has been linked to liver damage, so if you decide to use kava as a natural muscle relaxant, you should check with your doctor if you have previously experienced any problems with your liver.
Catnip is a type of mint plant that grows in many different parts of the world. Though it is most commonly consumed as a tea, catnip is also sometimes used to season foods. Catnip as a dietary supplement is usually available in capsule form at most health food stores. In addition to acting as a muscle relaxer, catnip is also believed to be an excellent remedy for headaches and insomnia.
Vervain is a dietary supplement that may have many of the same properties as aspirin. In addition to relieving pain, some homeopathic practitioners believe it also works well as a natural muscle relaxant. Some studies indicate that vervain may slightly suppress the central nervous system, which probably accounts for the relaxing properties of the herb. Pregnant women should avoid taking vervain, because it has been linked to miscarriage.
Rosemary is a common spice found in most household pantries. In addition to seasoning foods, rosemary, when used as a topical ointment is thought to have some calming effects. To help relax muscles and relieve cramps, rosemary can be mixed with other essentials oils and massaged into the skin. You can also add rosemary to your bathwater for overall body relief. In addition to acting as a muscle relaxer, rosemary may also be used to help with inflammation caused by arthritis and bursitis.
