Although we don’t always pay attention to them until they’re hurting, our muscles take a lot of use and abuse. Everytime we bend, lift, stretch, strain, rise, walk, run, sit, stand, lean, squat, and crawl, we use our muscles. In fact, every move we make requires muscle usage. You may be used to reaching for the aspirin or Tylenol® whenever one of your muscles cause you discomfort. But, the next time, try these homemade treatments for muscle aches and pains that are sure to bring you satisfying relief!
Soaking in a bath tub full of hot water and plenty of bubble bath can help soothe away the tensions of the day. Following along the same lines, my favorite homemade treatment for muscle aches and pains is to soak my weary body in a bath tub full of warm water… with a cup of Epsom salt mixed into it. Epsom salt is extremely beneficial in treating sore muscles. It also helps relieve the pain of fibromyalgia and migraine headaches, according to the Epsom Salt Industry Council. You can readily find Epsom Salt at your local drugstore.
Another homemade treatment for muscle aches and pains is to soak in a tub full of warm water with two cups of apple cider vinegar mixed in it. Vinegar is believed to improve the body’s blood circulation which helps remove harmful toxins from the muscles. Increased circulation helps valuable nutrients reach your muscles too.
Using an electric heating pad will also help increase the blood circulation to the skin area it’s applied to. However, heating pads are designed to lie relatively flat. Homemade Heated Rice Socks, on the other hand, can be more practical. They can be wrapped around an aching neck, knee or other joint. Unlike conventional heating pads that plug into an outlet, they’re safe to take to bed with you. They are also safe for diabetics to use, and others who suffer from poor circulation.
To make your own Homemade Heated Rice Sock, all you need is a long cotton tube sock. Fill it nearly full with white rice and tie off the end. Then, pop the sock in your microwave oven for a minute or so. Use it as a treatment whenever you need warm, moist relief from muscle aches and pains.
Wintergreen and Eucalyptus Oils are also effective homemade treatments for muscle aches and pains. And, they’re easy to use! All you need to do is rub a few drops of either oil on the affected skin areas for a cooling, then a warming relief.
You can find these oils at your local healthfood store. Or perform a search on the Internet to find a supplier you can order them from.
And finally, no matter which homemade treatment you choose to use, be sure that you drink plenty of tap water too. The water will help keep your body- especially your muscles- properly hydrated. Drinking a sufficient amount of water will also help flush away harmful toxins from your system.
