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Our Members Asked:
Do any supplements, foods, or oils help reduce muscle pain, muscle cramps, or nighttime leg cramps?

Answer:
Many supplements have been promoted to reduce muscle pain and muscle cramps, such as acetyl-L-carnitine, L-carnitine, CBD (cannabidiol), curcumin, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, tart cherry juice, taurine, and vitamins B-6, B-12, D, and K. Coconut water, tonic water, pickle juice, mustard, and a drink sold as HOTSHOT (combining cinnamon, ginger and capsicum), have also been promoted. However, clinical evidence suggests only some may be helpful.
Sign in as a member for details on what has, or has not, been shown to help with nighttime leg cramps. Keep in mind that there are many different causes of muscle pain, muscle cramping, and nocturnal or "nighttime" leg cramps, which is why it's important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms, as some causes, like blood clots, can be life threatening.
In addition the results of its expert testing, ConsumerLab uses only high-quality, evidence based, information sources. These sources include peer-reviewed studies and information from agencies such as the FDA and USDA, and the National Academy of Medicine. On evolving topics, studies from pre-print journals may be sourced. All of our content is reviewed by medical doctors and doctoral-level experts in pharmacology, toxicology, and chemistry. We continually update and medically review our information to keep our content trustworthy, accurate, and reliable. The following sources are referenced in this article:
- Allen, Am Fam Physician 2012
- Allen, Am Fam Physician 2012
- Brasic, Mayo Clin Proc 2001
- Brasic, Psychol Rep 1999
- Chubanov, Br. J Pharmacol 2012
- Craighead, Muscle Nerve 2017
- Dale, J Athl Train 2003
- El-Tawil, Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015
- FDA News for Health Professionals, 2012
- Georgieva, Appl Sci 2021
- Hogan, CMAJ 2015
- Maughan, Sports Sci Exchange 2019
- Miller, Med Sci Sports Exerc 2010
- Rabbitt, Age Ageing 2016
- Shaheen, BMC Public Health 2018
- Tan, JAMA Int Med 2024
- Tapper, Am J Gastroenterol 2022
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Latest Research Updates (Clinical Updates)
This May Reduce Leg Cramps
October 28, 2024
A recent study found high-dose vitamin K to dramatically reduce nighttime leg cramps in older men and women. For details (including the form, dose, and dosing regimen) see the What It Does section of our Vitamin K Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among vitamin K supplements.
Also see: Do any supplements, foods, or oils help reduce muscle pain, muscle cramps, or nighttime leg cramps?
Leg Cramps and Carnitine
August 22, 2024
Also see: Do any supplements, foods, or oils help reduce muscle pain, muscle cramps, or nighttime leg cramps?
Hyland's for Leg Cramps?
March 31, 2023
Does mustard help with cramps?
April 22, 2022
Several CL members have reported that taking mustard has relieved muscle cramps. Find out why this may help in our answer about foods and supplements for cramps.
Pickle Juice Works for Muscle Cramps
April 19, 2022
A recent study found that pickle juice reduced the severity of cramps (e.g., in the calves and feet). Get the details, including the dosage, timing, and type of pickle juice used in our article about Supplements for Muscle Cramps.
Also find out if a product called HOTSHOT might be beneficial for muscle cramps.
Pickle Juice for Muscle Cramps?
April 07, 2022
Related CL Answers (11)
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The "Updated" date indicates when new information was most recently added to this article. In the full article, the newest information is highlighted in yellow.
Mat23364
July 21, 2025I typically try to avoid eating close to bed time but am interested in trying K2 to alleviate intense leg cramps in the middle of the night. Isn't K2 best taken with food for absorption?
Vitamin K is fat-soluble and best absorbed when taken with some food or a meal that contains fat. For more information see the ConsumerTips section of our Vitamin K Supplements Review https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/vitamin-k-supplements-review/vitamin-k/#tips and our article that includes information about the best way to take fat-soluble vitamins https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/which-vitamins-and-minerals-should-be-taken-together-or-separately/how-to-take-vitamins/.
Reply to this post…
Rich22701
May 03, 2025A year on Vitamin K2 MK7 hasn't reduced my nighttime leg cramps at all.
Reply to this post…
Linda21099
November 16, 2024I’ve been taking Healthy Origins Vitamin K2 MK-7 (two soft gels) each night and no longer have severe leg cramps. I also stretch my legs before bed as well as use a foot massager in the evening. Maybe it’s a combination of all three. I have no financial interest in Healthy Origins.
Reply to this post…
Jennifer21066
November 10, 2024Disappointingly, when I added a nightly vitamin K2 supplement, my nocturnal leg cramps increased.
Reply to this post…
Gregory21019
November 03, 2024I had night time leg cramps that would make me scream, and I'm a tough old guy with a lot of tolerance for pain. I tried lots of things to reduce them. The one that worked for me, and has worked for years now, is the simplest of all. Hydrate!
I have learned one other very important trick for me. If I've had a very physically active day and I have not hydrated sufficiently then I will get cramps. What I've learned is that the very moment I feel one coming on I need to jump out of bed. If I get up quickly enough it will go away before barely any pain is present. If I don't get up quickly enough then it will take a little longer for the pain to subside and if I've really waited too long, then I will have to stand with support and wait until I am able to walk and then walk it off around my apartment. The correlation is crystal clear. The sooner I stand, the quicker the problem dissipates. I may have to stay up for 10 minutes or so after the pain subsides or it will come right back as soon as I lay down again. In the meantime, I drink a lot of water, but of course, my body won't process that for a while.
Charles22785
May 15, 2025My experience exactly! Walking off cramps ALWAYS works for me!
L23193
July 03, 2025Yep. Walk to the fridge for a tablespoon of pickle juice, and it goes quickly. Was it the walk or the juice?
Reply to this post…
KJK
November 03, 2024I'm 68 and had nightly lower leg cramps a few months ago. After increasing Magnesium with no relief, increased salt intake worked quickly. Would note that I had given up processed foods a few weeks earlier.
Reply to this post…
beatrice21004
October 30, 2024Magnesium L-threonate has helped my nighttime muscle cramps, I also include 99 mg of potassium at nighttime..Is has helped.
Reply to this post…
Joseph20990
October 29, 2024I experienced leg cramps during nighttime sleep hours after a lower body workout (cardio and leg weight training) . The only product I find that really helps is a product named Theraworx. Definitely works for me.
Reply to this post…
David20988
October 29, 2024Theraworx works for me, but I have to get out of bed to apply it after the cramps start.
You can find information about this product in our Magnesium Supplements Review https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#theraworx.
Reply to this post…
Carol20987
October 29, 2024I’m a 67 year old woman who suffered nighttime leg cramps every day, sometimes 2-3 x/night. I was drinking 2-3 glasses of wine every evening. When I stopped drinking the cramps effectively stopped (still occasional but mild). Now if I have even 1/2 glass of wine with dinner I’ll have a severe cramp.
Darienne21679
January 17, 2025Interesting. I only drink occasionally. Had terrible night cramps last night...after a glass of wine in the evening. I'll start to look for any correlation!
Reply to this post…
Ste20489
August 25, 2024During cycling, I get quad cramps. Pickle juice did not work, magnesium, even HotShot did not work. Direct pressure and stretching for 5 minutes relieves it, but it will return. Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and omega-3 levels are all adequate. I used to take Carnitine for other things, but I cannot recall it being effective for cramping as it was so long ago.
Harold21479
December 21, 2024It may be worthwhile to try electrolytes.
Reply to this post…
Bruce20474
August 24, 2024Simply try V-8 juice (low sodium version)! Seriously. Check out the many anecdotal reviews on the web. Has worked phenomenally for me.
Low-sodium V-8 could potentially help as it provides hydration (water). It also has a substantial amount of potassium (850 mg per 8 oz of juice), athough, as noted above, there does not appear to be clinical research showing that potassium supplementation helps with nighttime or exercise-related leg cramps (in fact, too much potassium can cause leg cramps as noted in our Potassium Supplements Review: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/potassium-supplements-review/potassium/#rauf ).
Reply to this post…
Robert20472
August 24, 2024I can attest that after suffering for many years with idiopathic leg cramps I tried Hyland's Leg Cramps. And guess what, it worked! I do not have any financial association with Hyland's other than being a very satisfied customer.
Gail20906
October 18, 2024Yes, me too.
Frank20981
October 29, 2024I have tried a small packet of table mustard always works within minutes.
Linda Jo
October 29, 2024It helps my mom too!
marion20985
October 29, 2024Hylands has always worked for me. First I drink water because dehydration can cause cramps. If that doesn’t help then I use Hylands. BTW I’m 82 yrs. and cramps are always night time. I have absolutely no financial interest in Hylands.
Norm20993
October 29, 2024I concur. Hyland's Leg Cramps Nighttime (blue bottle) has helped me with nighttime cramps for years now. One tablet under the tongue right before bed.
Reply to this post…
KJK
August 23, 2024Had nocturnal leg cramps for a few weeks. Tried magnesium supplement with no relief. Realized that my recently improved dietary habits had significantly reduced sodium intake, so used a popular salt-based supplement and got relief immediately. I realize this is not a good idea for some with certain health issues.
Reply to this post…
Molly20465
August 23, 2024Placing a heating pad over the area that has cramped up works for me. If the cramping is in too large an area, or extremely severe, I take a warm bath.
Reply to this post…
Mat10090
July 04, 2023I'm a type 1 diabetic and have suffered from severe muscle cramping, typically after more intense exercise such as: tennis, surfing, all day hikes, etc. I get to the point where almost every muscle would seize up below my waist, feeling so desperate for relief that I wanted to be knocked out somehow. Most of the above treatments I've tried but only one have I had just moderate success, such as the Caleb Treeze apple cider vinegar, garlic juice, which I would just drink when cramping as I was desperate for relief. I would get some relief after 5 minutes or so, however, it has lost it's effectiveness on me now.
Sea.in.San.Diego
August 26, 2024I recently had a multi-month experience of waking to horrific leg cramps and after extensively reviewing meds, nutrition, etc. accidentally discovered the excessive salt connection 2 hours after a high sodium Chinese takeout meal. Followed a restricted sodium diet and all the problems went away, along w/15lbs water weight gain…
Reply to this post…
robert10089
June 20, 2023I HAVE SEVER LEG CRAMPS - INTENSE ABOUT 3/ 4 AM AND I GET OUT OF BED AND STAND UP.
THIS CONDITION HAS EXISTED FOR ABOUT 9 YEARS.
AFTER STANDING UP - PAIN DISAPPEARS- that is it.
Elizabeth20992
October 29, 2024That works for cramps in my calves, but not for thigh cramps.
Reply to this post…
Maris
April 01, 2023I make a mixture of 1/4 c. distilled water and 1/4 c. magnesium chloride flakes--stir until dissolved and then add a bit more distilled water and may be a teaspoon or two of Thayer's Rose Petal Witch Hazel. I put it all into a travel size spray bottle and keep it in bedside table drawer. If I get a cramp in calf or foot cramp, I spray immediately and it is gone in seconds. And the rose petal witch hazel smells nice too.
Reply to this post…
Kurt10082
March 21, 2023Limiting your caffeine intake can help a lot with nighttime leg cramps as well. It helped me a lot when I stopped drinking caffeinated coffee.
Shawn Kelly19152
April 01, 2024I had the same experience. After trying all kinds of pills, potions and hacks with little to no success I started eliminating. When I stopped caffeine the cramps went to near zero.
Reply to this post…
Kurt10079
March 21, 2023I'm in my 60s now. In my 50s, I had a serious problem with lower leg and foot cramps while sleeping. My diet was very low in salt, and I wasn't conscious enough about drinking enough liquids after exercising a lot, working out in the sun, etc. I solved the problem by mixing my own sort of sports drink and drinking enough of this after exercising a lot, etc. I mix different 100% organic fruit juices with about 67-75% water and a little salt. Drinking enough of this makes a huge difference. I originally used orange juice, a little cranberry juice, and a touch of lime juice. Now I use a six-juice blend with orange juice instead of orange juice. If you don't eat at restaurants, don't eat heavily processed foods, and don't add salt to your food, it's easy to not consume enough salt/sodium.
You can find more information about sodium and hydration in the "When Do You Need Replenishment" section of our Electrolytes & Sports Drinks Review ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/electrolytes-sports-rehydration/electrolytes/#whatitis) which also provides guidelines about amounts of sodium and potassium to look for in products, and our tests and Top Picks among electrolyte products.
margot10080
June 07, 2023Margot 271932
Years ago I volunteered for the National Ski Patrol,
After coming off the hill to drive home I got agonizing leg muscle cramps, The more experienced patrollers said to drink a cup of water with a pinch of salt and a little sugar. Problem solved.
Reply to this post…
rosalie10076
February 19, 2023I found using Alkalife drops, according to their instructions, has stopped me from getting leg and foot muscle cramps at night. If I get tired of using the drops, a near vegan diet of legumes, vegetables, whole grains and fruit keep them away.
I have no financial interest in Alkalife drops.
Thank you for sharing this. You may be interested in our CL Answer about alkaline drops https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/are-alkaline-booster-drops-similar-to-krealkalyn/alkaline-drops-krealkalyn/.
Reply to this post…
Timothy Dailey10070
April 26, 2022i suffered excruciating leg cramps (day and night) for years. Ran down all ideas with tests and saw several specialists seeking answers. Despite electrolyte labs showing "normal" levels i knew as a years long take of PPI drugs that mineral absorption was an issue. I kept a food log for two weeks - noting all amounts of the major electrolytes being ingested. (magnesium potassium sodium calcium , as well as E D A. and B6 B12.
To my surprise my diet was WAY deficient in potassium. Less than 20% of the RDA in general.
Also found I had elevated blood levels (out of range high) of B6! Stopped taking the TwinLabs Daily One
(mega amounts of B6 in it) and started taking 800mg a day of potassium through potassium citrate powder.
After a week spasms diminished massively. THEN a few years after this - started having tremors and twitching around the clock. A nerve conduction study and a biopsy revealed I have Small Fiber Neuropathy,
and now have to take Gabapentin to control that.
Sidqi
August 20, 2022The things people take might be beneficial, but I found the 100% solution. I walk casually 1 hour every night--NO leg cramps and the bonus, I can sleep better. Two nights ago my schedule was wacko and I only had about 20 minutes of my walk--horrible muscle cramps. Then the last two nights I made very sure to get the full 1 hour each night and, NO cramps.
yalonda10071
October 30, 2022Thank you
Reply to this post…
Ever Learning RN
April 26, 2022I am relatively new to Consumer Labs and don't know if it's ok to mention a product, but Since dealing with leg cramps is the topic: I found what I thought was a too good to be true product description from Caleb Treeze Organic Farm called "Stop Leg & Foot Cramps in about One Minute" ad that I just couldn't resist checking out quite a few years ago, & I have been using their product ever since. & I have been giving it as a gift to all my friends & family members who complain of leg cramps to try (& also to patients & their care-givers as a home care and hospice RN) ever since. It works as described for me, and as reported back to me from everyone I have gifted it to. It's a concentrated mix of Apple Cider Vinegar, Ginger & Garlic juice. It comes in a 8 fluid ounce bottle--I mix one cap full/Tbsp into a 2 fluid ounce spray bottle with water--I don't like the idea of drinking it-nor does my stomach!-but spraying it on my legs and rubbing it in works for me as advertised for leg cramps--& I keep a bottle on my nightstand and pack it when I travel. My skin absorbs it quickly & the garlic smell dissipates quickly as well. I also take magnesium Glycinate daily & before bed (it the only form of magnesium that works for me & doesn't bother my stomach) Between these two supplements I have managed to stop leg cramps quickly and quiet down restless legs for years--I've even used them for acute back spasms and found it helps
Reply to this post…
Harold10067
April 26, 2022The People's Pharmacy, a syndicated column appearing in our local newspaper, mentioned sometime last year that drinking a glass of water at bedtime could, for some people, reduce or eliminate cramps. This will not work for some people because of the need to urinate during the night. For myself, however, I found that half a glass (4-5 ounces) of water works as well as a full 8-ounce glass. My leg cramps have been essentially eliminated, with only 2-3 episodes of mild foot cramps occurring over the past six months.
Mary Kay10068
May 08, 2022This is what works for me, cramps started a month ago and increasing to 3-4 times a week. I too tried water before bed, about 1/2 cup and 1 cup of water. Seems that when I don't drink enough water (need 8 glasses a day), I may get a very bad leg rightening cramp in my right leg calf during the night while sleeping, then I immediately extend my right leg out and bend the leg to loosen up the cramp and it works. By extending my leg back and forth, the cramp goes away in 3-4 seconds, versus doing nothing and waiting for the severe cramp to subside on its own.
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Timothy10065
April 25, 2022I carry a little bottle of salt with me for long hikes in the summer. If my legs start cramping up I've found a pinch of salt quickly clears that up.
If you are sweating, you lose a lot of water and some sodium, so, in addition to water, when doing strenuous exercise for a long period, having some salt (which could be from a snack or meal) is generally a good idea. For more about this, see the discussion in our Coconut Water Review entitled "Rehydration — How Good is Coconut Water?" (as we explain, coconut water is not the ideal replenishment in such as situation) https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/best-coconut-water-review-and-comparison/coconut-water/#howitsused
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Jennifer10062
April 25, 2022I'm disappointed...pickle juice didn't help with my severe muscle spasms, which are related to spinal nerve damage and spasticity. I hate the medication that does help, baclofen, because it makes me super drowsy and dull-minded.
Jennifer10064
April 01, 2023Me too. And the med that helps me the most, tizanidine, has lousy side effects, too. But nothing is worse than being awakened by excruciating cramps after 5 hours sleep.
SUSAN10063
September 13, 2023Yes I have an SCI as well. Baclofen only makes me drowsy and does not help. I take a low dose of tizanidine and Lyrica (the generic is Pregabalin) and together they help the most for my spasticity
Mesaverde
February 25, 2024Baclofen tablets prescribed for my Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia were ineffective. I get results with an implanted pump that delivers Gablofen to my spinal cord.
Reply to this post…
Dave10059
April 22, 2022Another vote for mustard as fast relief for cramps. A teaspoon full or a packet cures my occasional leg cramps within a minute. I always have a couple of packets in my travel bag.
Joseph10060
January 06, 2024Many years ago, a 90 year old lady told me about mustard. Everyone I know now carries a packet qith good succesa
Reply to this post…
Lori10057
April 22, 2022I have had cramps for many years, and about 10 years ago, just by chance, I read an article on how certain asthma inhalers could cause muscle cramps. I have been on asthma inhalers for decades! I went to my dr., who looked it up, and he then changed my inhaler! There is a certain ingredient in some inhalers that can cause muscle cramps. I mention this because learning this was a surprise for me, and it might help someone else!
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Jennifer10056
April 21, 2022This is interesting, as I have found vinegar (or pickles) to be foolproof cure for hiccups, which are another type of muscle spasm. I always assumed that worked due to some involuntary reaction to the sour flavor, like holding breath or tensing muscles, but perhaps there's actually an common mechanism here.
Reply to this post…
Mary10054
April 21, 2022From my personal experience, I also have found that if I take yellow mustard during the cramp it disappears within a few minutes. Pickle juice helped also but not as quickly. I am not promoting either product just sharing my experience and opinion.
Vonalda10055
April 22, 2022Mary, how much yellow mustard do you take?
Reply to this post…
Carol Lair10050
April 20, 2022I am taking pills with a combination of magnesium, calcium and vitamin D which has greatly reduced the frequency of my foot/leg cramps. If I do get cramps I immediately drink about 3 to 4 swallows of tonic water and cramps go right away.
Michael10051
May 05, 2022What kind of tonic water? What brand of tonic water? Thank you
Reply to this post…
Charles10049
April 20, 2022A friend of mine gave me a packet of mustard once when I got a leg cramp cycling. It took the cramp away in less than a minute. Ever since, I carry mustard packets on long rides. I also take some if I get leg cramps at night.
Reply to this post…
MizzF
April 19, 2022I tried HOTSHOT and HOTSHOT for muscle soreness and did not notice any difference with cramps or soreness. I followed all of their recommendations.
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Marie10047
April 19, 2022I decided to try the soap under the sheets. I was very skeptical. But it has worked for me. I am surprised—pleasantly s , as now I don’t need to drink pickle juice in the wee hours.
P. S. I do not make, sell or represent any soap products/producers.
Reply to this post…
David10045
April 19, 2022I have had problems with muscle cramps for many years. About six years ago I started using Theraworx foam on my calves and feet every night before I go to bed. That has almost totally eliminated the cramps. And when I do get a cramp it is usually easy to stop the cramping by wiggling or massaging the cramping area. I buy the Theraworx on Amazon. It comes in both a foam and a spray version. I have used both and like the foam better as it is easier to get 100% of the foam on my skin whereas the spray is a little messier. The operational ingredient in Theraworx is magnesium sulphate, the same ingredient as in epsom salts. I have no financial interest in the Theraworx company.
See our Magnesium Supplements Review for details of a clinical study that investigated the effects of Theraworx on nighttime leg cramps https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#theraworx
Reply to this post…
Lanni10044
April 19, 2022If I drink the following concoction dissolved in a liter/quart of water, the cramps go away.
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Epsom Salt
1/4 tsp Pink Salt
1/4 tsp Nu Salt
Reply to this post…
Ann L
April 19, 2022I have had chronic leg cramps for decades, which may be linked to fibromyalgia. (However, I also have a family history through my mother and her father of severe cramping.) My cramps are often NOT in my calf, but more often my feet or these very narrow muscles that run up the sides of my legs. I have found that 1) adequate sleep is very important, 2) ingesting supplemental magnesium helps enormously, and 3) Penetrex cream (although expensive) applied to a cramped muscle will make it disappear or at least lessen it after 5 to 10 minutes. I have no financial interest in Penetrex. My hypothesis is that it draws blood to the region, and that helps. I got there by noting that cramps are more likely when my feet are up (in recliner or in bed), and thus not getting the blood flow they do when down. I'm very excited to try pickle juice and/or mustard!
Reply to this post…
REBECCA10041
April 19, 2022I use a supplement called Mag R&R which has been a life saver for my cramps. I have neither a financial interest nor investment in the product or the company that makes it. I’m going to try some of the above mentioned treatments since the Mag R&R is expensive.
Reply to this post…
Dennis10040
April 19, 2022Have dealt with severe cramping of large muscles and hands for years. Drs have been of little or no help, lab values normal ranges. Sports medicine trainer suggested plain yellow mustard ( have like mustard) when they start. Worked great,got tried of rounded tbs of mustard, switched to 2.5 oz dill pickle juice. It is as close to a miracle treatment as I will probably ever experience. Family ands are amazed when they see such a dramatic response, often in seconds. I buy it by the gallon and repackage it in 2.5 oz. bottles. For me, the best treatment ever.
Reply to this post…
Alan10038
April 19, 2022What form of Magnesium (Citrate, Glycinate, Oxide, Chloride, Lactate, Malate, etc.) do you use for cramps?
Please see the information about cramps in the What It Does section of our Magnesium Supplements Review for details about forms of magnesium that have been used in clinical trials https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#legcramps
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Steven10035
April 19, 2022A heaping tablespoon of mustard works for me every time.
Louise10037
April 19, 2022Yes, mustard works well for both my husband and me. I'm surprised it is not mentioned in this article.
Thanks for sharing your experience, we have added information about using mustard for cramps to our article above: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-magnesium-creams-sprays-and-oils-really-work/magnesium-oil/#mustard
Reply to this post…
ram10034
April 19, 2022We have found that drinking a glass or two per day of Gatorade prevents cramping. Coconut water also found to help. Again, it reduces the occurrence and severity of cramps. Aso Theraworx (advertised over TV network) when applied over the cramp muscles works almost 80% of time quickly (within about 3 to 5 minutes) and reduces the cramp time. My wife gets cramps more frequently and severely than me, we both are seniors.
Reply to this post…
Shar10032
April 19, 2022I’ve had muscle cramps for years. Taking a magnesium 100 mg, supplement helps enormously but not 100%. I will eat a few potato chips and the cramp releases. Potato chips nor pickle juice will do nothing to prevent cramps I’ve read articles that indicate it’s the taste sensation to the brain that causes the cramp to release. That’s probably why some people say pickle juice works. I suspect hot sauce would do the trick for immediate relief.
Shar10033
April 19, 2022Additionally i do drink a lot of water
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Winifred10031
April 19, 2022I have found that my dietary intake of potassium in foods directly affects whether i get night calf cramps. So I drink an 11.5 oz can of low sodium V8 most days (it has over 1/3 of daily advised intake of potassium) in addition to plenty of vegetables and a magnesium supplement capsule at supper. This regimen has completely stopped them as long as I avoid sedentary sitting and drink enough water.
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Maryann10028
April 19, 2022I would suffer from severe muscle cramps in lower legs and feet only as I got older and after walking 4 miles at a time during the day - but the cramps would happen at night when I laid down making it impossible to sleep. I found a product advertised as an old Amish remedy - called Stops leg and Foot Cramps in about one minute. It worked for me taking one capful in a glass of water and sometimes by rubbing some of it directly on the cramps. It’s ingredients are reported to be certified organic apple cider vinegar and all natural ginger and garlic juice. I don’t know if they’ve done studies and I have no financial interest in the company. I found later I could control the onset of cramps better by taking a magnesium supplement before I walked - 1 250 mg tab of Nature Made which is magnesium oxide. No interest there either. The cramps were horrible and now I’m able to get rid of them if I get them. I’m happy yo read what other people have found helpful as well as consumer lab’s comments on what may be harmful! Thank you!
Cindy19278
April 13, 2024I made that same concoction for my brother who has liver disease and suffers with them. I added Turmeric, too, and made it into a poultice. I couldn't believe it, but it worked for a few hours, and he got some good sleep. I'll add pickle juice to it next time. Magnesium didn't do anything for him. He's on a lot of medication waiting liver now for a decade, and his doctors at Hopkins keep a tight reign on what supplements he can take, which is usually none. For now, stretching stop my night cramps. Thank you for posting that, Maryann10028. I check with ConsumerLab before I buy anything. Thank you, too. I have no connection to selling any products. I'm just an older lady trying to keep myself and my family healthy.
Cindy19279
April 13, 2024I forgot to add that I made the poultice myself with ingredients I had in my kitchen, so I cannot speak to the product you mentioned. Thanks again for posting the remedy.
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Satu10026
April 19, 2022I wonder if it's the sodium/salt in pickle juice thet helps. There was an old phycisian who told that he has a glass of water and some salt on his nightstand just in case.
It's more likely to be the vinegar in pickle juice than the salt causing the effect, as we explain in the article above.
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Janice10025
April 12, 2022I recently purchased a percussion massage gun and have found it to be very effective for relieving my night time muscle cramps. As soon as I feel a cramp coming on (often of the inner thigh), I massage the affected area and the cramp goes away and does not return during the night. I keep it beside my bed and have managed to avoid any painful, protracted leg cramps by using the massage gun. I don't know if this will work for others, but for me it has been so helpful.
Barbara19399
April 30, 2024I too have severe leg and foot cramps at night, primarily on the inner thigh. The percussion gun provides the fastest relief that I’ve found so far. Supplemental electrolytes (Trace 40,000 Volts) taken in water (2 quarts per day) as recommended by my doctor may be helping but has not eliminated the cramps. Magnesium (Calm) did not help me. I have no financial interest in the products mentioned.
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Arleen10022
April 10, 2022I do long-distance running and hiking. I always carry a small bottle of pickle juice in case i get leg cramps. Vinegar potato chips also helps. As far as night cramps are concerned, low iron could also be a cause.
Sandra10023
April 19, 2022I had not considered low iron—thanks for the tip.
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John10021
April 10, 2022I have found that sugars - particularly corn syrup - in my diet are associated with cramps in calves and shins. It takes very little of the high fructose products to cause cramps. I have no interest in these products.
I noticed this in particular when driving: I had stopped adding sweet liquid creamers to my coffee on drives for months and had no cramps. Then on a long drive I got a coffee and put several creamers in – and soon had shin cramps. This happened enough to times to convince me the cause was the creamers.
I also reduce sugar intake overall and especially at night to prevent night leg cramps.
My treatments are magnesium and stretching before sleep.
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Diane10020
April 09, 2022My leg and foot cramps gradually increased until they became dehabilitating. The. culprit was my insulin brand! Different manufacturers use different. "filler" ingredients and I'd become allergic to the ones used in my brand. My P.A. switched insulin brand and cramps disappeared.
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catherinehc
April 09, 2022What stops my awful, charlie-horse leg cramps within seconds is drinking 3 oz of coconut water, which is high in potassium.
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Geoffrey10018
April 08, 2022Switching from caffeinated to de-caffeinated coffee completely eliminated my nighttime calf cramps.
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Henrietta
April 08, 2022The thing that makes leg cramps go away is the walking to and from the refrigerator and has nothing to do with pickle juice.
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Richard10008
April 03, 2022PICKLE JUICE -My wife and I each take 20 mg daily of Atorvastatin, known to cause leg cramps when legs are idle. My Cardiologist recommended Co-Q 10, which REALLY works for both my wife and me. I take 200 mg in am and also pm. But often that's not enough. I tried increasing dosage, but found that didn't help. So the 400 mg daily seems to max out it's benefit for me.
Pickle juice is my "go to" remedy when I jump out of bed at 3 am with those cramps. It takes about 5 minutes. Also, if really bad and you have 4 am patience, a hot bath helps a lot. I have zero patience, so I take a hot shower. Not the same "soaking" benefit as a bath, but quicker. There's always a bottle of pickle juice in our fridge.
Donna10011
April 05, 2022How much pickle juice?
MaryAnn10010
April 10, 2022It varies for me so I drink about a 1/4 cup and wait and see. It doesn't take more than a few minutes. Because I now have more pickles than "juice," I started eating the pickles and it works as well as the brine.
Carol10009
April 10, 2022I use a heating pad. I think that helps. Not sure yet.
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Linda10007
April 03, 2022Sometimes, even slight dehydration causes me to have painful nighttime calf muscle spasms and equally painful and involuntary curling of toes. I find that drinking two to three large glasses of water resolves the cramps in about 10-15 minutes.
Whenever, in conversation, a family member or friend mentions having had painful calf muscle and/or involuntary and painful curling of toes at night, I suggest that they try 3 large glasses of water as a first remedy. So far, it works for all of us.
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Marie10005
April 03, 2022For myself, dill pickle juice has worked better than mustard or magnesium and potassium supplements. It is truly miraculous.
I have no relationship with any pickle producers.
Cher
April 10, 2022Staying well hydrated has helped the most, but it needs to be daily -- a level I don't always meet. If I start feeling the twitchiness I associate with those sudden excruciating foot, thigh, calf, or diaphragm) muscle spasms, I head for the pickle juice or mustard -- 1-2 tsp., it takes only minutes for everything to relax. If I don't make it in time, but still can reach the pickle juice, an active spasm will resolve w/i 2-3 minutes; without, these miserable episodes can last up to 20 minutes and keep threatening to recur long afterward. I suffered these for years before hearing about the pickle/mustard solution. I was skeptical, but no more.
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Betty10004
April 03, 2022For a number of years now I drink one cup of diet tonic water, before bed. It has solved my night time leg cramps and was recommended by my doctor. I highly recommend it! I have no financial connection to tonic water...
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Michael10002
April 02, 2022I noticed when I take too many TUMS (calcium) for heartburn so I stopped eating after 4pm and now take baking soda before bed .I had severe leg cramps while sleeping. I now take less TUMS and 125-250mg magnesium daily. The cramps have stopped 100%. Also, heartburn is gone.
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Linda G.9999
April 01, 2022My husband often has leg cramps at night. If he gets one, he keeps small cans of tonic water (15 cl) on the night table. He drinks that and the cramp goes away immediately. It’s absolutely brilliant!
Louis
April 03, 2022Tonic water at night also works for me. I add gin at times and it still works.
Darienne10000
April 04, 2022...mild dehydration can also cause leg cramps...for some, just drinking fluids will help.
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ED44
March 28, 2022The only thing that works for my bedtime after exercise (xc-skiing is the worse) shin cramps is to stick my bare legs out from under the covers, bare from knees down.
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Leslie9995
February 18, 2022My doctor said to drink 3/4 cup Gatorade mixed with 1/4 cup water. I serve it with ice to chill. Both my husband and I drink this every evening and our cramps are gone!! Avery
Gatorade is a very cheap and easy cure for cramps. Drink at least 3/4 cup daily. This was given to me by my doctor. It works! My husband and I drink this daily. We have no financial interest in the Gatorade company.
ram9996
April 20, 2022You are absolutely right, that is what we found by trial and error. Coconut water also works but can become expensive if used every day.See my comments dated April 19 2022.
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Louis
September 29, 2021To relieve my nighttime leg cramps, I drink a glass of tonic water. I assume it's the quinne in the water. Adding some gin helps the spirits.
Jackie9994
March 12, 2022Odd, I have enjoyed similar relief with a Margarita (no salt)!
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Robert9992
September 29, 2021I finally got relief from cramps in my legs and feet after getting adequate treatment for hypothyroidism.
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Marina9990
September 29, 2021I used to have dream-ruining leg cramps every other night, or so! I was told that there were a lot of different types of magnesium, but magnesium citrate was the best for cramps. That helped quite a bit, as the cramps came less often. Then someone recommended stretching my calves by hanging most of my feet off the top of a stair step every night for about a minute before bed and that too was helpful. But what REALLY gave me permanent relief was eating a banana before going to bed! Seems the potassium is key and after more than a year of simply eating a banana before hitting my pillow, NO MORE NIGHTTIME LEG CRAMPS ... AT ALL!
emanuelle9991
February 20, 2022thanks for sharing
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Richard9988
September 29, 2021Occasional lower leg cramps upon waking in the morning: Magnesium (capsule) did not help. Added potassium (tablet) and that yielded a 90% improvement in both frequency and severity. When it does happen, my sure-fire treatment is to immediately get to my feet and put the normal amount of weight on both legs. That stops the cramping.
Alissa9989
March 12, 2022true in my case as well. Also good during the day if I'm sitting long periods.
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Val9984
September 29, 2021After a number of debilitating nighttime (and occasionally daytime) leg cramps, I discovered years ago that a spoonful of either mustard or pickle juice, as suggested by The Peoples Pharmacy, relieved the cramp in a matter of seconds. Later, I discovered that, for me, taking an inexpensive magnesium oxide supplement would also relieve it in less than a minute and did away with an extremely difficult walk to the refrigerator during a cramp). Eventually I decided to be proactive and avoid the cramp altogether by taking magnesium daily. I do not know why the research does not support this unless there is some unknown factor that divides people taking magnesium into 2 groups whose statistical results cancel each other out. All I know is for me, having now taken magnesium daily (with no diarrhea or other side effects) for at least 10 years, I have not had another leg cramp in all those years except for a couple of times when I ran out of magnesium.
DY
April 03, 2022I keep packets of mustard that you get from fast food. I put them bed side, in my golf bag etc. Handy and you don't have to trek to the frig........
Richard9987
April 03, 2022YES- Pickle Juice works for me.
Patricia9986
April 08, 2022Pickle juice also works for me as well as mustard!! Haven’t had any leg cramps during the night since I do the bar soap thing - I know sounds crazy but works for me.
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margaret9982
September 29, 2021mustard works for me. 1tbs within 15 mins or less. yellow, must be yellow mustard. 1 tbs of mustard does not sound appetizing but when that muscle is in agony, you do anything, right? amount could be less but im not willing to take anything less
margaret9983
October 01, 2021this is margaret commenting on own statement. I have tried most all supplements, remedies mentioned. Tumeric in yellow mustard has been suggested to be ingredient that gives relief but took tumeric supplement for extended time, leg cramps continued to return. 1 tsp mustard worked but times, only lessened cramps and had to follow with another. Now i dont mess around, I just dose with 1 Tbs. I totally agree, it makes no sense!
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Jack9981
September 29, 2021I find that Horse Chestnut helps relieve leg cramps at night.
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william9980
July 14, 2021Leg cramps can have a muscular or vascular cause, you need to see doctor first to find out what is causing the cramping. It might be dehydration.
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N9978
July 14, 2021I have been successfully taking high dose magnesium for years for muscle cramps. When I run out or recently lower the dose, my cramps return or worsen. Recently I cut back on my potassium and noted more leg cramps. I have resumed my potassium with successful results. So the combo of magnesium and potassium keep me pain free.
We are glad that your muscle cramping has eased, but please note that although potassium as well as magnesium deficiency can cause muscle spasm, supplementation with magnesium or potassium has, unfortunately, not been established as clinically effective in treating muscle cramps, as discussed in our Potassium Supplements Review ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/potassium-supplements-review/potassium/#whatitdoes) and Magnesium Supplements Review ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#legcramps).
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Patricia9975
July 14, 2021Probably 30 years ago I was dealing with severe every night leg cramps and my doctor prescribed Quinine (which is no longer prescribed). While taking, it definitely worked but did I want to take it for a long time so I read up on muscle cramps and how our bodies sometimes don’t process minerals etc correctly. I found Nature Bounty Cakcium, Magnesium, Zinc capsules and started taking and no more cramps. Ran out of my supply & store was out so ai thought maybe don’t need to take anymore - wrong as leg cramps returned. I take daily and no more leg cramps.
Patricia9976
September 29, 2021Another thing I have found very helpful & it sounds truly crazy but a bar of soap under the sheet also has worked for me!
Others have reported this as well. See our comment below https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-magnesium-creams-sprays-and-oils-really-work/magnesium-oil/#comment-23265
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ray9973
February 10, 2020My Husband had been having real problems with leg cramps at night. Most nights. We take magnesium capsules. I got some magnesium foam (in pump bottle) for him, and it made a dramatic difference. He won't be without it now.....and he rarely gets the cramps at night.
LYNN9974
June 17, 2021I tried magnesium, but it didn't work. Potassium gluconate, about 1/3 tsp. works for me, usually in about 15-20 minutes. I get leg/foot cramps, in different places, at night after exercise, even if I don't sweat much. I started having the leg cramping after dances ( about 2 1/2 hours of Contra Dancing or English Country Dance) at about age 60. I've also been taking generic Benicar during that time for high blood pressure. Since one of it's actions is diuretic, causing me to pee about every hour, my suspicion is that it's depleting electrolytes. So glad magnesium is working most nights for you. If there is still a problem, try potassium. Just be careful with amount of any of these chemicals. I read, further down, that Niagen caused this problem for a person and wonder, since I also take it, if it's contributing to my problem. Will stop it for a few months.
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Gerald9971
December 04, 2019I HAVE BEEN USING MAGNESIUM OIL MIXED WITH DMSO FOR MY RLS.
IF REALLY WORKS FOR ME....
Gale9972
February 17, 2022I have found massaging in Magnesium Oil, often followed by rubbing Unka Ointment into painful joints works well to stop pain. I do the same in a.m. if i have any pain.
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Bill9968
July 10, 2019I find 1/4 teaspoon to 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg before bed effective in reducing leg cramps. More nutmeg will cause problems, and large quantities are dangerous
Hi Bill - Thank you for sharing your experience with this. There is some evidence that nutmeg may have some analgesic and/or sedative properties (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12616960), although there do not appear to be studies in people for these uses. As you noted, large doses (5 grams or more) can be toxic, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations and seizures (https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/plantox/detail.cfm?id=7463; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4057546/). In one reported case, significant confusion, dizziness and drowsiness was reported in a women who had consumed 2 teaspoons of nutmeg (a little under 5 grams) (http://www.njmonline.nl/getpdf.php?id=1536).
Lorri9969
September 29, 2021I tried nutmeg after finding no help from otherwise...and it worked. (!)
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Susan9965
August 26, 2018My husband uses Mg lotion,I use Mg spray, we both have seen a big reduction in cramping.I find if I feel near to a cramp at bedtime or during night spray avoids my cramping.
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Tim and Joe9964
March 16, 2018I am a competitive athlete (Scottish Highland Games), and the events that I participate in are high intensity - long duration events that have athletes crawling off the field of competition after 8-10 hours of competition. needless to say, there is a lot of muscle soreness at the end of such a competition. To keep this short, I won't bore you, but I experimented and used mag oil on only leg after competition. The next two days had a markedly difference between the two legs. no soreness on leg that I used the mag oil, normal soreness & tightness on the leg without. I use it after EVERY competition now.
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Mildred9962
March 11, 2018Regarding your report on topical magnesium products: my elderly mother suffers from Restless Leg Syndrome and when it hits (about every other night) the only relief she can get is by using spray-on magnesium (salts). True that it tends to dry the skin, but the relief is remarkable. Usually within 30 minutes, or less, she is back to sleep with no further RLS.--
Hi Mildred - Thank you for sharing this. You may be interested in our CL Answer about supplements for restless leg syndrome https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-restless-legs-syndrome/supplements-restless-legs-syndrome/.
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Lesley9960
March 11, 2018" little reliable clinical evidence showing these products are effective " doesn't mean they don't work. After years of exposure to pesticide (over 20 years ago now), I now get cramps in my feet and up the front of my shins only if I've inadvertently been exposed to pesticide again or, interestingly, those plug-in room deodorisers. Magnesium oil rubbed onto the spot will give almost instant, complete relief and I know many elderly people who wake in the night with horrible cramp, who have the same result magnesium oil.
Hi Lesley - Thank you for sharing your experience with magnesium oil.
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gail9956
March 11, 2018I have a genetic muscle disorder that causes my muscles to painfully contract and not release. I do get botox injections every 3 months and that does help but I am limited to how much botox I can receive at one time. This being the case, I have the injections in my upper traps since they are the worse.
I found out about magnesium oil some years back and it has been able to give me relieve in my other muscles that are contracted.
It's important to buy magnesium oil with no water added, just magnesium chloride.
I know for a fact, from my personal experience, that this type of magnesium oil works. Since my muscles are so tightly contracted, I don't spray it on but pour some into my hands and apply it generously. I then wrap the area with saran wrap. I do this at night while watching tv and remove it before going to bed.
I know that this sounds extreme but desperate times call for desperate measures!
I hope that this helps someone out there :)
daliya9957
March 12, 2018thanks for the tips. I think the saran wrap keeps it warm and that might be a lso healing
can you have baths with magnesium sulpate befre bed. Sorry for your struggles. I tale 1000mg of magneuim and tumeric and berberine and bone borth and that seems to help as well .
Hi Daliya - Thank you for sharing this; however, that is a large dose of magnesium. Please see the What to Consider When Using ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#using) and Dosage ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#dosing) sections of the Magnesium Supplements Review.
Gale9959
February 17, 2022I also spray the Magnesium Oil onto my hands, then rub it in generously just before going to bed and, if needed, when I wake up. Good to see so many are also getting relief from applying Magnesium Oil.
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Patty9947
March 11, 2018Regarding effectiveness of topically applied magnesium, I was surprised and abit dismayed you did not review the work of Dr Norm Shealy. This slightly shakes my faith in your process.
Hi Patty - We discuss Dr. Shealy's research and the issues with it in the Magnesium Creams, Sprays and Oils section of the Magnesium Review: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#spray
Patty9950
March 12, 2018Thank you.
You're welcome Patty!
nanci9952
August 28, 2021I'm surprised no one mentioned putting soap under their sheets. It's an old folk remedy and I don't know how it works, but it does. I'm a huge skeptic but had such horrible foot cramps every night, I heard about it and decided to try it. I put a bar of lavender soap (wrapped in a paper towel) in between the sheet and the mattress pad. I don't think it matters what kind of soap it is. I like the smell of lavender. I swear I have not had foot cramps since I started doing this years ago. It's a cheap and safe remedy worth trying.
There does not appear to be clinical evidence to support this approach, although many people say it works. A good article about this was published by The People's Pharmacy (https://www.peoplespharmacy.com/articles/soap-under-the).
Sylvia9953
September 29, 2021My husband and I both use a very simple remedy for nighttime foot or leg muscle cramps — a good spoonful of yellow mustard. It relieves our cramps in 30 seconds to a minute every time. We don’t know why it works, but it does. I even carry little packets of mustard with us on trips. This is just plain yellow mustard like you buy at the grocery store and put on hotdogs. Hope this helps someone else, as muscle cramps really hurt and interrupt one’s sleep. /Sylvia
Alissa9954
March 12, 2022RE: the soap comments:, an old friend recommended lavender soap between the sheets years ago. Yes! it does work.for leg cramps.
Yvette9948
April 02, 2022Just wanted to add that the bar of soap trick did absolutely nothing to prevent my night time leg cramps. Drinking a small bottle of tonic water with quinine is the only thing that does it for me.
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