Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsNatural Muscle RelaxersMagnesiumCurcuminComfreyMentholCamphorCBDCapsaicinAlternative TherapiesFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Natural Muscle Relaxers
Magnesium
Curcumin
Comfrey
Menthol
Camphor
CBD
Capsaicin
Alternative Therapies
Frequently Asked Questions
Muscle relaxers (also called muscle relaxants)typically refer to medicines that reducemuscle crampsorstiffnessand alleviate pain.
Several populardietary supplementshave muscle-relaxant effects. However, remember that just because these products are natural doesn’t necessarily mean they’re safe. Supplements that can relax the muscles typically come with some notable side effects and drug interactions, just like prescription medications.
Some common prescription muscle relaxers include the following:
If you are taking prescription muscle relaxants, do not stop your therapy abruptly or replace your prescriptions with supplements unless with the guidance of your healthcare provider.
Here’s what you need to know about natural muscle relaxers to help you decide if they may be right for you.
Close-up of female applying a cream to her hand.StockPlanets / Getty Images
StockPlanets / Getty Images
Many plants have been found to have antispasmodic activity, meaning they stop or prevent muscle cramps.Plant-based products that may act as natural muscle relaxers include the following:
Magnesium, a mineral found in foods like leafy green vegetables, seeds, and nuts, has also been studied for its effects on the muscles.
Highlights about using these and other supplements for muscle spasms, tightness, and pain follow.
A Word From VerywellWhen it comes to muscle relaxants, there are a handful of over-the-counter therapies available. While many of these options are considered natural and do not require a prescription, it is always important to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist first before starting something new. Additionally, if you do not get relief from these options, you should contact your provider to determine a more appropriate treatment plan.—LINDSAY COOK, PHARMD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
A Word From Verywell
When it comes to muscle relaxants, there are a handful of over-the-counter therapies available. While many of these options are considered natural and do not require a prescription, it is always important to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist first before starting something new. Additionally, if you do not get relief from these options, you should contact your provider to determine a more appropriate treatment plan.—LINDSAY COOK, PHARMD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
When it comes to muscle relaxants, there are a handful of over-the-counter therapies available. While many of these options are considered natural and do not require a prescription, it is always important to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist first before starting something new. Additionally, if you do not get relief from these options, you should contact your provider to determine a more appropriate treatment plan.
—LINDSAY COOK, PHARMD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
Magnesium is crucial to maintaining proper nerve and muscle function.Several different types of magnesium exist, includingmagnesium citrate,magnesium oxide, andmagnesium glycinate.
Magnesium supplements are often recommended to treat or prevent muscle cramps. But they’ve not been proven to help everyone, according to a review of 11 clinical trials.
Although magnesium is frequently promoted for relieving leg cramps during pregnancy, more research is needed into its effects. So far, the data are conflicting.
Magnesium causes gastrointestinal side effects, such asdiarrhea, in up to 1 out of 3 people who take it.This can be due to taking too much magnesium at one time, above the recommended daily allowance (RDA). Steer clear of taking amounts above your daily RDA.
Curcumin is a component ofturmeric,a spice used in curry. It hasantioxidantandanti-inflammatoryeffects.
Curcumin has been studied for muscle soreness after exercise. Though results are mixed, most clinical trials show that curcumin helps with exercise-related muscle pain and soreness.For best results, take it within 24 hours of working out.
Comfrey root has traditionally been used to treat muscle and joint pain.
According to one study, comfrey cream can quickly reduce muscle pain.A few clinical trials say it can also help alleviateback pain,ankle pain, andosteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis)symptoms. However, more research is needed.
Be aware that some comfrey products contain ingredients that can damage the liver, causecancer, or harm a fetus or children.
It also shouldn’t be used with other medicines that can damage the liver, such asTylenol (acetaminophen).
Menthol is a cooling agent commonly applied to the skin for pain relief.It’s an ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) products like Biofreeze, Bengay, andIcy Hot.
Menthol can help promote recovery after exercise and limit soreness and muscle pain.
Keep in mind that applying menthol to the skin can irritate it. If it’s inhaled (breathed in), it can also worsenasthma.
Camphor is another popular ingredient in topical pain medications like Bengay,Tiger Balm, andVicks VapoRub.
While it may be helpful for muscle pain, there’s not enough evidence to routinely recommend it.More clinical trials are needed.
Cannabidiol is a component ofhempandcannabis (marijuana)plants. CBD is different from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the substance in cannabis that causes euphoria (a “high”).
CBD acts on the body’sendocannabinoid systemand may decrease muscle pain and spasticity.Animal studies show it can decrease muscle cramps,though human clinical trials are needed to confirm this effect.
CBD can cause liver toxicityor more common side effects such as:
CBD interacts with lots of medications, including:
Legal Status of CBDMost states allow the sale of CBD with low levels of THC, though it is still illegal in some states.For state-specific guidelines, check out a site likeState Medical Cannabis Lawsfrom the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Legal Status of CBD
Most states allow the sale of CBD with low levels of THC, though it is still illegal in some states.For state-specific guidelines, check out a site likeState Medical Cannabis Lawsfrom the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Most states allow the sale of CBD with low levels of THC, though it is still illegal in some states.
For state-specific guidelines, check out a site likeState Medical Cannabis Lawsfrom the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Capsaicinis the component of chili peppers that gives them their kick.It has pain-relieving effects and is available OTC as low-dose creams and ointments or in higher concentrations as a prescription patch.
Low-dose capsaicin cream has been studied for chronic muscle pain. According to a review of three clinical trials, capsaicin cream is less effective thannonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen), and not much more effective than placebo (an ineffective substance given to control groups in studies) for this type of pain.
On the other hand, high-dose capsaicin cream is helpful for people withmyofascial pain syndrome, a common cause of muscle pain, according to a small trial of 40 people.
Side effects of topical capsaicin (applied to the skin) are common. They include:
Capsaicin may lower blood sugar, according to animal studies.It may lower blood sugar (hypoglycemia) more if taken withinsulinor diabetes medications. Keep an eye out for symptoms of hypoglycemia, like shakiness or a rapid heartbeat.
When to See a Healthcare ProviderMuscle cramps and tightness are often limited to one or a group of muscles. These will usually go away on their own with rest and hydration or with the help of over-the-counter pain medications.If muscle cramps occur along with systemic (body-wide) effects, it’s best to see a healthcare provider to ensure that a more serious health concern isn’t overlooked.Signs you may have more than a run-of-the-mill muscle cramp due to exercise or overuse of a muscle can include:DizzinessNausea or vomitingDark urineConfusionComa
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Muscle cramps and tightness are often limited to one or a group of muscles. These will usually go away on their own with rest and hydration or with the help of over-the-counter pain medications.If muscle cramps occur along with systemic (body-wide) effects, it’s best to see a healthcare provider to ensure that a more serious health concern isn’t overlooked.Signs you may have more than a run-of-the-mill muscle cramp due to exercise or overuse of a muscle can include:DizzinessNausea or vomitingDark urineConfusionComa
Muscle cramps and tightness are often limited to one or a group of muscles. These will usually go away on their own with rest and hydration or with the help of over-the-counter pain medications.
If muscle cramps occur along with systemic (body-wide) effects, it’s best to see a healthcare provider to ensure that a more serious health concern isn’t overlooked.
Signs you may have more than a run-of-the-mill muscle cramp due to exercise or overuse of a muscle can include:
Alternatives to Natural Muscle Relaxers
If you’re not sold on taking prescription medicine or a dietary supplement for muscle pain or cramps, there are many alternative treatments to consider. Some that may help include:
These are safe for most people, but for best results, discuss these complementary treatments with your healthcare provider before starting them to ensure they’re suitable for you.
If you are pregnant, get your healthcare provider’s approval before using natural muscle relaxers or alternative treatments for optimal safety.
About Dietary SupplementsIn the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), or a pharmacist.
About Dietary Supplements
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), or a pharmacist.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), or a pharmacist.
Summary
Many people who experience muscle cramps or stiffness take dietary supplements like magnesium, CBD, and menthol for relief.
While there is limited evidence that these and other supplements can help with muscle cramps or pain, more robust research is needed. Contrary to popular opinion, natural muscle relaxers can have serious side effects and interactions with prescription medicines.
Always discuss the use of supplements with a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, nursing, or have chronic illnesses to ensure your treatment is safe for you.
The answer to what is the strongest natural muscle relaxer is unclear because these supplements have not been directly compared in clinical trials. More research is needed to know the effects of these supplements and how they compare to each other.
In lieu of or in addition to supplements or prescription medicines for neck pain, some ways to relax your neck muscles include massage, yoga, stretching the neck and shoulders,and relaxation techniques (posture exercises and visual feedback).
34 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Cashin AG, Folly T, Bagg MK, et al.Efficacy, acceptability, and safety of muscle relaxants for adults with non-specific low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis.BMJ. 2021;374:n1446. Published 2021 Jul 7. doi:10.1136/bmj.n1446
Martínez-Pérez EF, Juárez ZN, Hernández LR, et al.Natural antispasmodics: Source, stereochemical configuration, and biological activity.Biomed Res Int. 2018;2018:3819714. Published 2018 Oct 8. doi:10.1155/2018/3819714
National Institutes of Health.Magnesium.
Garrison SR, Korownyk CS, Kolber MR, et al.Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;9(9):CD009402. Published 2020 Sep 21. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub3
Yoon WY, Lee K, Kim J.Curcumin supplementation and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS): effects, mechanisms, and practical considerations.Phys Act Nutr. 2020;24(3):39-43. doi:10.20463/pan.2020.0020
Panknin TM, Howe CL, Hauer M, et al.Curcumin supplementation and human disease: a scoping review of clinical trials.Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(5):4476. Published 2023 Feb 24. doi:10.3390/ijms24054476
Hewlings SJ, Kalman DS.Curcumin: a review of its effects on human health.Foods. 2017;6(10):92. Published 2017 Oct 22. doi:10.3390/foods6100092
Staiger C.Comfrey root: from tradition to modern clinical trials.Wien Med Wochenschr. 2013;163(3-4):58-64. doi:10.1007/s10354-012-0162-4
Salehi B, Sharopov F, Boyunegmez Tumer T, et al.Symphytumspecies: A comprehensive review on chemical composition, food applications and phytopharmacology.Molecules. 2019;24(12):2272. Published 2019 Jun 18. doi:10.3390/molecules24122272
Dewanjee S, Sohel M, Hossain MS, et al.A comprehensive review on clinically proven natural products in the management of nerve pain, with mechanistic insights.Heliyon. 2023;9(5):e15346. Published 2023 Apr 14. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15346
Avila C, Breakspear I, Hawrelak J, et al.A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) and comfrey (Symphytum officinale).Fitoterapia. 2020;142:104519. doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2020.104519
Drugs and Lactation Database, National Library of Medicine.Comfrey.
Pergolizzi JV Jr, Taylor R Jr, LeQuang JA, Raffa RB; NEMA Research Group.The role and mechanism of action of menthol in topical analgesic products.J Clin Pharm Ther. 2018;43(3):313-319. doi:10.1111/jcpt.12679
Li Z, Zhang H, Wang Y, et al.The distinctive role of menthol in pain and analgesia: Mechanisms, practices, and advances.Front Mol Neurosci. 2022;15:1006908. Published 2022 Oct 5. doi:10.3389/fnmol.2022.1006908
Hoang D, Wong A, Olympia RP.Looking back to move forward: The current state of research on the clinical applications of camphor- and menthol-containing agents.Cureus. 2023;15(7):e41426. Published 2023 Jul 5. doi:10.7759/cureus.41426
Narayan S, Singh N.Camphor poisoning-An unusual cause of seizure.Med J Armed Forces India. 2012;68(3):252-253. doi:10.1016/j.mjafi.2011.11.008
Zettl UK, Rommer P, Hipp P, et al.Evidence for the efficacy and effectiveness of THC-CBD oromucosal spray in symptom management of patients with spasticity due to multiple sclerosis.Ther Adv Neurol Disord. 2016;9(1):9-30. doi:10.1177/1756285615612659
Sholler DJ, Schoene L, Spindle TR.Therapeutic efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD): A review of the evidence from clinical trials and human laboratory studies.Curr Addict Rep. 2020;7(3):405-412. doi:10.1007/s40429-020-00326-8
Iffland K, Grotenhermen F.An update on safety and side effects of cannabidiol: a review of clinical data and relevant animal studies.Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2017;2(1):139-154. doi:10.1089/can.2016.0034
Balachandran P, Elsohly M, Hill KP.Cannabidiol Interactions with Medications, Illicit Substances, and Alcohol: a Comprehensive Review.Journal of General Internal Medicine. Published online January 29, 2021. doi:10.1007/s11606-020-06504-8
Wiley JL, Gourdet CK, Thomas BF.Cannabidiol: Science, Marketing, and Legal Perspectives. Research Triangle Park (NC): RTI Press; April 2020
Basith S, Cui M, Hong S, et al.Harnessing the therapeutic potential of capsaicin and its analogues in pain and other diseases.Molecules. 2016;21(8):966. Published 2016 Jul 23. doi:10.3390/molecules21080966
Romero V, Lara JR, Otero-Espinar F, et al.Creme tópico de capsaicina (8%) para o tratamento da síndrome da dor miofascial [Capsaicin topical cream (8%) for the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome].Braz J Anesthesiol. 2019;69(5):432-438. doi:10.1016/j.bjan.2019.06.008
Miller KC, McDermott BP, Yeargin SW, et al.An evidence-based review of the pathophysiology, treatment, and prevention of exercise-associated muscle cramps.J Athl Train. 2022;57(1):5-15. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-0696.20
Chang WD, Chang NJ, Lin HY, et al.Effects of acupuncture on delayed-onset muscle soreness: a systematic review and meta-analysis.Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2020;2020:5864057. Published 2020 Jun 27. doi:10.1155/2020/5864057
Chen YW, Wang HH.The effectiveness of acupressure on relieving pain: a systematic review.Pain Manag Nurs. 2014;15(2):539-550. doi:10.1016/j.pmn.2012.12.005
Lazaridou A, Paschali M, Vilsmark ES, et al.Biofeedback EMG alternative therapy for chronic low back pain (the BEAT-pain study).Digit Health. 2023;9:20552076231154386. Published 2023 Feb 7. doi:10.1177/20552076231154386
Ashar YK, Gordon A, Schubiner H, et al.Effect of pain reprocessing therapy vs placebo and usual care for patients with chronic back pain: A randomized clinical trial.JAMA Psychiatry. 2022;79(1):13-23. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.2669
Müggenborg F, de Castro Carletti EM, Dennett L, et al.Effectiveness of manual trigger point therapy in patients with myofascial trigger points in the orofacial region-a systematic review.Life (Basel). 2023;13(2):336. Published 2023 Jan 27. doi:10.3390/life13020336
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Yoga: Effectiveness and safety.
Tunwattanapong P, Kongkasuwan R, Kuptniratsaikul V.The effectiveness of a neck and shoulder stretching exercise program among office workers with neck pain: a randomized controlled trial.Clin Rehabil. 2016;30(1):64-72. doi:10.1177/0269215515575747
Rota E, Evangelista A, Ceccarelli M, et al.Efficacy of a workplace relaxation exercise program on muscle tenderness in a working community with headache and neck pain: a longitudinal, controlled study.Eur J Phys Rehabil Med. 2016;52(4):457-465.
Meet Our Medical Expert Board
Share Feedback
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
What is your feedback?
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.Cookies SettingsAccept All Cookies
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.
Cookies SettingsAccept All Cookies
