Muscle Cramps
(Myalgia)
Etiology
Muscle cramping in different parts of the body is commonly
caused by a calcium and magnesium imbalance and/or a vitamin E
deficiency. Anemia, arthritis, and even arteriosclerosis may
result in cramping.
Most muscle cramps occur at night when resting and affect the
legs, especially the calf muscles, and the feet. These kinds of
cramps occur more frequently in the elderly, the young, and
persons with arteriosclerosis.
The use of diuretic drugs for high blood pressure or heart
disorders may also be the cause of muscle cramping. If taking one
of these drugs, be sure to add potassium.
Poor circulation contributes to leg cramps. See the doctor if
you have cramps during the day while active. This may be a sign
of impaired circulation.
NUTRIENTS:
- Calcium, 1,500 mg. per day.
- Magnesium, 750 mg. per day (use
magnesium chelate: people with a milk intolerance should
not take the magnesium lactate).
- Vitamin E, 400-1,000 IU (start with 400
and increase dosage slowly), improves circulation.
- Potassium, 99 mg. per day, is needed for
proper calcium and magnesium metabolism.
- Silicon, taken as directed on the label,
aids in calcium absorption.
- Vitamin B complex with extra niacin and thiamine,
100 mg. per day, improves circulation and cellular
function.
- Vitamin C plus bioflavonoids, 3,000 mg.
per day, improves circulation.
- Vitamin D, 400 IU per day, is needed for
calcium absorption.
- Coenzyme Q10, 100 mg. per day, improves
heart function and circulation; also, lowers blood
pressure.
- Lecithin, taken as directed on the
label, reduces cholesterol.
- Vitamin A, 25,000 IU daily (may be
included in a multivitamin and mineral complex).
- Zinc, 50 mg. per day, is needed for
absorption of calcium and action of B vitamins.
HERBS:
- Ivy
- Lavender
- Saffron, meadow
- Wintergreen
- Corydalis, golden
- Clover, yellow sweet
- Dong quai
- Elderberry extract
- Ginkgo biloba extract
- Horsetail grass
- Silica
- Chaparral
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Eat alfalfa, brewer’s yeast, plenty of chlorophyll,
cornmeal, kelp, and green leafy vegetables.
- Massage the muscles after using heat to relieve pain. Do
not massage if there has been an injury or sprain,
especially when there is swelling.
- Suspect claudication (impaired circulation) if cramping
occurs after walking and is relieved when you stop.
Go to Herb Index
