Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus) is a flowering shrub native to Europe and parts of Africa and Asia. It is also grown in North America and many other parts of the world. Cramp bark is also high in antioxidants, especially flavonoids and carotenoids — two antioxidants that can help prevent and reverse cellular damage in your body.
Cramp Bark is another herbal remedy that naturally contains a compound called methyl salicylate, which is known to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. It has been known to help soothe even severe cramping that is associated with nausea, vomiting, and sweaty chills.
Cramp bark can block the spasms of smooth muscle. The fruits of Viburnum opulus have been used to treat gynecological disorders, including dysmenorrhea (painful periods) as well as ovarian cysts.Cramp bark is known to be a top pick by herbalists in the United Kingdom for preventing miscarriage. Several active substances in Viburnum opulus including scopoletin and aesculetin have been labeled as having antispasmodic effects on the uterus.
Cramp bark has a lengthy history as a natural muscle relaxant. It is known to relieve menstrual cramping due to its ability to stop smooth muscle spasms. For this reason, it’s also known to help relieve muscle spasms and aches throughout the body, such as in the back or legs, whether related to PMS or physical exertion.
HOW TO USE:
Cramp bark is traditionally prepared by placing 2 teaspoons of the dried bark into a cup of water, bringing it to a boil and then simmering it for 10 to 15 minutes. This tea can be consumed three times per day for cramps.
WARNING:
Cramp bark typically doesn’t cause unwanted side effects in normal doses. However, do not use this herbal remedy if you have a sensitivity to aspirin. People sensitive to aspirin may also be sensitive to cramp bark.
Large doses of cramp bark can cause nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea.
