If you’ve ever woken up in pain from working out or sleeping wrong, you know how uncomfortable sore muscles can be. Muscle soreness often occurs six to eight hours after physical activity and can last up to 48 hours after.

The good news is, there are many ways to treat this inconvenient pain from home. As there are many drugstore products like creams and pills to treat soreness, natural remedies are also simple and fast-acting.  

If you often suffer from sore muscles, keep reading for the top five natural treatments.

1. Stretch It Out

Stretching is an important activity for circulation, joint health, and muscle strength. Be sure to stretch at least once a day to treat muscle pain and prevent future injuries. 

If you’re an avid exerciser, consider stretching after every workout. This will prepare your muscles for future activity and help decrease symptoms of soreness.

As muscles tighten during exercise, stretching after a workout can also loosen the muscles and relax. For other examples of the best post-workout practices, click here to view more. 

Even if you aren’t participating in rigorous physical activity, it’s important to stretch often. While stretching alone won’t prevent all soreness, it will help muscles deal with discomfort and pain. 

2. Try Apple Cider Vinegar

When muscles become inflamed, tense, and sore, apple cider vinegar may be able to help. While many don’t enjoy its pungent taste, it is one of the top remedies for poor gut health, acne, and muscle soreness. 

Consider diluting a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar into water or juice and drinking it once a day. You may also consider adding around two cups of apple cider vinegar to a hot bath. These methods will allow the anti-inflammatory properties to seep into sore muscles and reduce pain. 

3. Take Natural Magnesium Supplements 

As a natural mineral with relaxing properties, magnesium supplements are crucial to our body functions. Studies show that most U.S. adults don’t ingest enough magnesium, affecting muscle, bone, and even heart health. For more elongated muscles and fewer symptoms of soreness, consider trying magnesium supplements. 

Often associated with muscle soreness, lactic acid is a natural byproduct of muscle metabolism. When too much lactic acid builds up in the muscles after a workout, this causes soreness. Low levels of magnesium can also build up lactic acid and cause discomfort and pain. 

4. Try Turmeric 

Often compared to a common pain relief medication, ibuprofen, turmeric is a top home remedy to treat muscle soreness.

With anti-inflammatory properties and rich antioxidants, this flowering plant can help reduce soreness. As part of the ginger family, turmeric is simple to add to everyday cooking recipes. We recommend adding a small pinch of turmeric seasoning to your meals for reduced muscle soreness. 

5. Massage Your Muscles

While it may feel uncomfortable to massage sore muscles, the pressure applied to tight areas can loosen and relieve tension. 

Not only do massages help reduce tightness, but they can also help elongate muscles. One study found that massages can improve endurance and aid in post-workout recovery. If you don’t have someone at home to give you a massage, consider buying a foam rolling pin to treat yourself. 

Treat Sore Muscles Today

While sore muscles are a common occurrence for many, the pain and discomfort never get easier to handle. With these top natural remedies, you can reduce the impact of muscle soreness.

For more health and fitness tips, be sure to check out our other blog posts.