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Turmeric is a popular spice that has been used in India for over 2,500 years. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is known for its anti-inflammatory advantages. Although very useful for several medical conditions, turmeric has no association with treating muscle spasms -- sudden, involuntary contractions of a muscle that do not immediately relax. On the other hand, there are other various solutions to treating and preventing muscle spasms and cramping.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Health Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric may not be useful when treating muscle spasms, but this spice is used in soups and stews to help aid the liver in the process of detoxification. In addition, turmeric is high in antioxidants and is believed to have anti-bacterial and cancer-fighting potential, according to The Hindu website. Turmeric can also be used as an antiseptic, as well as preventing coughs and colds.
Causes of Muscle Spasms
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Muscle spasms usually occur in the lower leg and calf muscles, hamstrings, quadriceps, hands and feet. According to the Stretching Institute, common causes of muscle spasms are poor flexibility of the muscles, muscle fatigue and overuse, dehydration and electrolyte and mineral depletion.
Herbal and Mineral Remedies for Muscle Spasms
A few herbal remedies to help alleviate muscle spasms include rosemary and fennel. Rosemary is used to season meats, but it can be useful for improving blood circulation, muscle rheumatism and physical exhaustion, which are associated with muscle spasms. Fennel, flavored similar to licorice, is noted for its role in relieving intestinal spasms and cramping in the lining of the digestive tract. Mineral supplements, including vitamin B complex can be useful in providing relief of muscle spasms or cramps, according to Mayo Clinic 1. Additionally, your diet may lack the necessary potassium, calcium or magnesium, which may be a contributor to the muscle spasms or cramps your experiencing. The best solution is to talk with your doctor first before taking any type of nutritional supplement.
- A few herbal remedies to help alleviate muscle spasms include rosemary and fennel.
- Rosemary is used to season meats, but it can be useful for improving blood circulation, muscle rheumatism and physical exhaustion, which are associated with muscle spasms.
Common Treatments for Muscle Spasms
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One way to treat common muscle spasms in the legs, hands and feet is through physical activity. The Stretching Institute suggests discontinuing the activity that caused the spasm or cramp, gently stretching the affected muscle group, continuing with light physical activity, as well as heating and massaging the muscle to promote blood flow 1.
Prevention of Muscle Spasms
Regular cardiovascular exercise helps promote delivery of blood to the muscles, preventing muscle spasms. Also, stretching is required to keep your muscles loose and flexible.
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References
- Mayo Clinic: Muscle Cramp
- SteadyHealth.com: What Are the Benefits of Rosemary?
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- Sluka KA, Clauw DJ. Neurobiology of fibromyalgia and chronic widespread pain. Neuroscience. 2016;338:114-129. doi:10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.06.006
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- Jafri MS. Mechanisms of myofascial pain. Int Sch Res Notices. 2014;2014. doi:10.1155/2014/523924
- Gür A, Karakoç M, Nas K, Cevik R, Saraç J, Demir E. Efficacy of low power laser therapy in fibromyalgia: a single-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lasers Med Sci. 2002;17(1):57-61. doi:10.1007/s10103-002-8267-4
- Ruaro JA, et al. Lasers in medical science. 2014 Nov;29(6):1815-9. Low-level laser therapy to treat fibromyalgia.
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Writer Bio
Javonne Blackley began her career as a certified fitness trainer 6 years ago in a local gym while building clientele and developing tried and proven methods to achieving optimum health. After venturing off on her own, she currently oversees the business side of Dynamic Sports & Fitness, but continues to remain hands-on with personal trainer knowledge, and trains clients that have weight loss goals or sports-specific goals.