How to Cure and Prevent Leg Cramps: Some Effective Home Remedies

Leg cramps are characterized by sudden, involuntary and painful contractions of the muscles of the legs, calf, feet or thighs. They usually last for a few seconds, although in some cases they can last for five to 10 minutes. The intensity of the pain also varies.

The cramps largely occur for no particular reason or due to overexertion of muscles. They may also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or peripheral artery disease.

Leg cramps are very common among adults, but older people and pregnant women are more prone to them. Some people frequently experience leg cramps at night. This can be a problem, especially if it happens regularly. If you are experiencing leg cramps about three or more times a week, the following home remedies could help you.

Home Remedies

Gentle massages provide instant relief for leg cramps. Slowly rub or massage into the knots of your cramped leg muscles in the natural direction of the muscles. This improves blood circulation in the area, relieving pain and discomfort.
Take a warm bath or a hot shower. Allowing the hot or warm water to flow over your leg muscles relaxes them, gradually eliminating the cramps.
Stretching exercises could also help. If the cramps are on your calf muscles, stretch your leg with your toes pointing up. Hold the position for at least 30 seconds. This also eases cramps along the back of your thighs. If your front thigh is cramping, pull your foot towards your buttocks and hold for 30 seconds. Regular stretching exercises can prevent leg and muscle cramps in the future.
Use an ice pack, a heating pad or a hot compress on the affected area for 10 minutes. This relaxes the muscle and stimulates blood circulation.
Herbalists often recommend drinking chamomile tea. Chamomile tea contains glycine, an amino acid that has been studied to relax muscles. For even better results, add some honey. This is known to prevent recurring leg cramps.
Leg cramps can also be treated using an Ayurvedic remedy that involves a mustard seed foot bath. You will need to prepare a tea bag containing black or brown mustard seeds. Use the tea bag to saturate a tub of hot water. Then immerse your leg in the water for 20 minutes.
If you regularly experience leg cramps, take a few ounces of pickle juice or a spoonful of mustard daily. You can also drink a glass of warm water with two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and a teaspoon of honey every day. You will notice the frequency of your leg cramps decreasing significantly.
Stay hydrated. Insufficient water intake often causes leg cramps, headaches and body pain. Drinking plenty of water ensures that your body is sufficiently hydrated to function effectively and avoid various aches and pains.