AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON ANTISPASMODIC

Herbs that reduce or inhibit muscle spasms or cramping, such as in asthma, menstruation, hear palpitations, migraine, or IBS.

Antispasmodics (also called spasmolytics) generally prevent spasms, colic, and cramps of the back, stomach, intestine, bladder, uterus, bronchial tubes, kidneys, and blood vessels of the head. Generally antispasmodics relax involuntary smooth muscle tissue. Many of these herbs are relax psychological tension as well.

There are several types of antispasmodic herbs, by mechanism:

• Aromatic - The volatile oils relax smooth muscle tissue.
• Antiocholergenic - Acetylcholine decreases with age and can contribute to spasticity.

Purines, including caffeine in coffee, chocolate, green and black tea, increase muscle contractility. Caffeine also 1) stimulates adrenaline, which leads to contraction of smooth muscle tissue, and 2) causes cAMP to remain active in muscles, favoring contraction. Avoid capsicum as well.

INGREDIENTS WITH ANTISPASMODIC QUALITY

Browse Antispasmodic Recipes

HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS WITH ANTISPASMODIC QUALITY

OTHER HERB ACTIONS AFFECTING MUSCLE-HEALTH

HELPFUL FOR*

'Antispasmodic' may be helpful for these symptoms and causes below.

CONTRAINDICATIONS / AGGRAVATES / IS AGGRAVATED BY*

'Antispasmodic' may aggravate, or be aggravated by, these symptoms and causes below.

About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University.

John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 6 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language.

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