Tense Muscles? These OTC Muscle Relaxers Might Help

Whether it’s caused by an intense workout, sleeping the wrong way or a medical condition like fibromyalgia, muscle soreness and tightness is something everyone will likely experience at some point. And, while it’s easy to head to the doctor for medicated relief, many people can now look to over-the-counter and natural muscle relaxers instead.

One of the big reasons sufferers search out over-the-counter and natural answers to the problem is that synthetic 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. It’s better to deal with the pain-causing source if possible. For this reason, natural, over-the-counter remedies for relaxing muscles should be the treatment of choice for many.

Below, you’ll find 10 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.

Buy: Dee Cee Labs Formula 303 Natural Relaxant Tablets $41.99

2. Solimo Vitamin D3

BEST BUDGET

This Solimo Vitamin D3 supplement is a well-reviewed option for giving your diet a vitamin-filled boost. Each softgel contains 50 mcg (2000 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 free from gluten, lactose and artificial colors and also come with a year-long satisfaction guarantee.

Buy: Solimo Vitamin D3 $6.99

3. Oregon’s Wild Harvest Muscle Relax

BEST SUPPLEMENT

The Oregon’s Wild Harvest Muscle Relax Supplement is a 100% mix of whole, organic herbs which 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.

Buy: Oregon’s Wild Harvest Muscle Relax $13.83

4. Majestic Pure Hot Cream

BEST FOR MASSAGE

Use this Majestic Pure Hot Cream to provide relief for sore muscles and benefit smooth and soft skin at the same time. The cream is ideal for use after a long day at the office or a particularly intense workout at the gym. Ingredients inside the USA-made product include pine and peppermint to reduce inflammation and soreness and eucalyptus and chamomile to deliver relief to your muscles. The wide-acting cream can also help to reduce the appearance of cellulite as juniper, grapefruit and rosemary may work to tighten skin. Furthermore, 87% of the formula is made from organic matter, while 100% of the ingredients are cruelty free and not tested on animals.

Buy: Majestic Pure Hot Cream $14.98

5. 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 spasming. You’ll also love the soothing, apple-like aroma that accompanies the use of this versatile treatment.

Buy: Artizen Roman Chamomile Essential Oil $14.99

6. 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.

Buy: Nobi Nutrition High Absorption Magnesium Complex $21.45

7. 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.

Buy: Christopher’s Cayenne Heat Ointment Too low to display

8. 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 the 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.

Buy: Cheribundi Tart Cherry Juice $29.36

9. 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 a tailored treatment of your choosing.

Buy: HealthmateForever Electrotherapy Device $29.99

10. 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.

Buy: RENPHO Deep Tissue Massager $41.99

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