Tense Muscles? These OTC Muscle Relaxers Might Help

Muscle soreness and tightness is something everyone will likely experience at some point in their lives. And, while it’s easy to head to the doctor for medicated relief straight away if symptoms aren’t dramatic or debilitating, it may be better and more preferable to turn to over-the-counter and natural muscle relaxers instead of their prescription-requiring kin.

When it comes to why you experience muscle soreness and tightness, there is no guaranteed answer. However, there are a number of common causes which include:

• Excessively hard physical work
• Sprains or strains
• Bites or stings
• Fibromyalgia
• Incorrect/uncomfortable sleeping positions
• Intense workouts
• Anxiety disorders
• Infection
• Medication side effects
• Long periods of inactivity

One of the big reasons sufferers search out over-the-counter and natural answers to the problem is that synthetic prescription drugs rarely deal with the source of the problem and instead mask it by removing the pain sensation. This might be acceptable for acute pain. However, for chronic muscle pain sufferers whose symptoms may last for days or weeks, masking the problem isn’t really a good answer. 

Because of this, it’s often better to deal with the pain-causing source if possible. That’s why many people are now trying natural, over-the-counter remedies for relaxing muscles as an answer to the problem. There is, of course, no magic answer which works for everyone which is why it may require trying more than one of these treatment methods to figure out which one works best for you.

In general, there are three types of natural muscle relaxers.

Topical Application

Applying creams or oils to the site of the pain can be a fast and effective way to deal with the problem. Whether you’re applying a made-for-purpose muscle relaxing cream or a wider acting application which contains essential oils or other active ingredients, these treatments are often a handy and convenient option to keep on your person.

Dietary Change

A popular choice for many sufferers is to add (or take away) from their diet. In terms of over-the-counter answers to muscle relaxation, products like infused teas or dietary supplements stuffed full of antioxidants are the most prevalent and popular options. Not only might they relieve pain and relax muscles, they often taste great, too.

Lifestyle Change

Lifestyle changes are a commonly ignored approach to pain relief. Changes to how you sleep or physically treat your muscles post-workout are often seen as inferior options to “medical” answers. However, if you’re really looking to make a difference, we’d definitely suggest at least combining lifestyle changes with other treatment options.

Below, you’ll find 17 of the best natural or over-the-counter muscle relaxers for managing soreness and tightness. Whether it’s through dietary change or direct application to the site of discomfort, these treatments are effective, well-rated and trusted by people who often suffer from sore muscles.

1. Dee Cee Labs Formula 303 Natural Relaxant Tablets

BEST OVERALL

These Dee Cee Labs Formula 303 Natural Relaxant Tablets have five-star reviews from over 80% of Amazon users and offer an all-natural answer to muscle tension and discomfort. The tablets include a mix of valerian root, passiflora and magnesium carbonate to provide relief from muscle pain, muscle spasms and joint pain. The natural composition, which is safe and non-habit forming, means the tablets are safe for long-term use, meaning you always have an effective way to relax your muscles. Furthermore, the tablets can also help with general restlessness, difficulty sleeping and snoring.

2. Healing Solutions Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil

BEST BUDGET

As a product with over 13,000 five-star reviews, you can trust in the quality of this Healing Solutions Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil. And, as it contains citral, like other lemongrass products, including tea, you may be able to benefit from the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anxiolytic action to soothe pain, lessen inflammation and provide a surprising level of relaxation. Diluted, this oil can be applied topically or added to a diffuser to create a relaxing lemongrass-scented environment.

3. Boiron Arnicare Gel Homeopathic Medicine

BEST HOMEOPATHIC

The Boiron Arnicare Gel Homeopathic Medicine is a well-reviewed answer for temporarily removing muscle pain and stiffness. It’s a non-greasy, water-based cream that is easily applied to the site of discomfort. It’s also unscented, paraben-free and uses a natural, plant-active ingredient, Arnica montana, to achieve the drowsiness-free result. The gel can be applied three times a day or as needed and works best when the pain or stiffness is first encountered which is why keeping a tube in your sports or gym bag may be a smart choice.

4. Celestial Seasonings Chamomile Herbal Tea

BEST DRINK

If drinking is your preferred method of natural medicine administration, you may want to add this Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea to your shopping list. With over 85% of Amazon users giving it a five-star review, you know it has to be doing something right. Chamomile has been used for years to treat a number of ailments and may offer relief from muscle spasms and inflammation to leave you and your muscles feeling relaxed. Inside each of the six boxes of tea, you’ll find 20 individual bags which means you won’t likely be running out anytime soon.

5. Oregon’s Wild Harvest Muscle Relax

BEST SUPPLEMENT

The Oregon’s Wild Harvest Muscle Relax supplement is a 100% mix of whole, organic herbs that have been chosen for their ability to relax your muscles and your mind. Ingredients inside the capsules include organic valerian root, organic skullcap tops and organic hops, and this supplement should be taken twice a day to promote overall muscle relaxation. In addition, the supplement can be used to ensure a pleasant night’s sleep. This supplement is free from wheat, gluten, dairy, soy and GMOs.

6. Artizen Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

BEST ESSENTIAL OIL

Another topical treatment you can use to relax your muscle is chamomile essential oil. For an effective treatment, try adding this Artizen Roman Chamomile Essential Oil to a carrier oil of your choice and then applying it to the site of pain and inflammation. In addition to relieving muscle pain, this oil can also help soothe muscle tension and reduce spasms. You’ll also love the soothing, apple-like aroma that accompanies the use of this versatile treatment.

7. Turmeric Curcumin with BioPerine

BEST CAPSULE

Curcumin is known for its anti-inflammatory properties which is why adding this Turmeric Curcumin with BioPerine to your diet may have some beneficial outcome. Each bottle contains 90 USA-made, veggie capsules which should be taken on a three-per-day regimen, The capsules, which use 100% pure turmeric powder in their production, are all-natural and contain no binders or fillers. When added to your diet, they work to promote healthy, anti-inflammatory action.

8. Handcraft Blends Peppermint Essential Oil

MOST VERSATILE

Topical use of peppermint oil may work to provide pain relief and relax your muscles around the site of application. Try diluting this Handcraft Blends Peppermint Essential Oil with a carrier oil for a quick and easy remedy to muscle discomfort. The menthol in the oil may also add a slightly distracting, cooling sensation at the site. It may also deliver an increase in blood flow to the affected area. Additionally, peppermint oil can be used for a number of other things, including as a flavoring agent in food, to provide relief from headaches and to act as a natural remedy to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

9. Sports Research Vitamin D3 Infused

BEST VITAMIN

This Sports Research Vitamin D3 Infused with Coconut Oil supplement is a well-reviewed option for giving your diet a vitamin-filled boost. Each soft gel capsule contains 125 mcg (5000 IU) of vitamin D3, ensuring your body has all the vitamin D it needs and, thus, helping to prevent muscle pain and discomfort — a common symptom of low vitamin D levels. These vitamins are also infused with coconut oil, contain no gluten and come with a 90-day guarantee.

10. Nobi Nutrition High Absorption Magnesium Complex

BEST VEGAN

With 90% of Amazon users awarding Nobi Nutrition High Absorption Magnesium Complex a five-star review, you can be confident this product is worth your time. Each of these capsules contains 500mg of pure magnesium which delivers a number of benefits, including muscle recovery and relaxation. It also works to promote calm, restful sleep. But, this effective vegan-friendly treatment doesn’t stop there, as it also aids in heart health, bone density, stabilizing your blood sugar and helping healthy digestion.

11. Coldee Pain Relief Hemp Oil Cream

BEST TOPICAL

No matter whether you’re suffering from tight muscles, arthritis, body discomfort or aching joints, this Coldee Pain Relief Hemp Oil Cream could help. It contains a mix of hemp extract and menthol synergy which are fast-acting and deliver a cooling sensation at the site of application. Additionally, this well-reviewed cream has been clinically shown to be twice as effective as some prescription medicines. As well as hemp and menthol, this cream contains a number of other natural ingredients that add to its effectiveness, including tea tree oil, arnica, aloe vera and coconut oil. If you’ve yet to discover the impressive action of hemp-containing products, this is an ideal place to start.

12. Christopher’s Cayenne Heat Ointment

BEST OINTMENT

Using a mix of extra virgin olive oil, organic cayenne pepper, menthol crystals and essential oils, Dr. Christopher’s Formula Cayenne Heat Ointment is able to provide relief for sore muscles and joints. A light application of this deep healing balm can help alleviate sore muscles, stiff necks and other joint and muscle complaints. Please note, this well-reviewed ointment should be refrigerated because it is free from any sort of fillers and harsh chemicals.

13. Cheribundi Tart Cherry Juice

MOST UNIQUE

You might not believe it could be so simple, but relaxing your muscles can be as easy as drinking fresh fruit juice. This Cheribundi Tart Cherry Juice is made from 100% juice and contains 50 tart cherries in each eight-ounce serving. The tart flavor comes from the cherries while a hint of added apple juice ensures a little sweetness. Drinking this juice helps reduce soreness and aids muscle recovery. The anthocyanins included in the drink reduce oxidative stress and lessen soreness. In addition, the naturally occurring melatonin helps ensure you get a good night’s rest.

14. HealthmateForever Electrotherapy Device

BEST ELECTROTHERAPY DEVICE

The HealthmateForever Electrotherapy Device lets you harness the power of electricity and use it to manage muscle pain. It’s ideal for use on almost every muscle, from your neck to your feet, and provides stimulation in a non-invasive and drug-free way. The device is supplied with eight individual pads which can be applied to the same or different muscle areas for targeted relief. Furthermore, this advanced device offers different modes for different body parts and 20 levels of intensity for the tailored treatment of your choosing.

15. LOOV Organic Wild Blueberry Powder

BEST DIETARY

When it comes to antioxidant action, it’s hard to beat the humble blueberry. Antioxidants can help to reduce inflammation and also remove oxidative stress on the body. In this LOOV Organic Wild Blueberry Powder, you’ll get a powder that can be added to a number of foods, including smoothies, muesli, yogurt, baked goods and any other food type which would suit a blueberry twist. This USDA-organic, freeze-dried powder contains a range of minerals and vitamins, such as calcium, potassium, vitamin A and vitamin E.

16. Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow

BEST BED ADDITION

While good sleep may not technically be an over-the-counter natural muscle relaxer, it is a great way to help your muscles relax. If you aren’t getting a sufficient amount of rest every night, try making it a priority. And, if in-bed comfort is an issue, add this Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow to your setup. It comes in either king or queen size and is made from 100% cotton with a 240 thread-count shell. It also sports a no-shift design and boasts over 7,500 five-star reviews from Amazon users happy with their purchase.

17. RENPHO Deep Tissue Massager

BEST MASSAGER

If all else fails, stick to the classics. For many people, there’s no better way to relax muscles than with a body massage. And while having a set of hands working their magic on your body may be preferable, when a professional masseuse isn’t available, the RENPHO Deep Tissue Massage is a solid second choice. This handheld device provides up to 140 minutes worth of action and comes with five interchangeable heads to give you a range of available treatment options. There are also a number of percussion modes and power levels to allow you to tailor your massage to your needs.

The Best Muscle Relaxant Creams That Are a Post-Gym Life Saver