Horseradish has been cultivated for about 2,000 years. Early settlers brought the plant to America. Early uses included reducing sciatic nerve pain, expelling afterbirth, relieving colic, increasing urination, and killing intestinal worms. Horseradish is one the "five bitter herbs" of Passover.

Topically, the mustard content irritates the skin and stimulates local blood flow, giving relief to minor muscle aches and inflamed joints or tissues. Both the mustard oil and the glucosinolate composition give the root its characteristic pungency, helping to decrease congestion and inflammation of the respiratory tract. Horseradish may also have some antimicrobial activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Horseradish is available as fresh or dried root, ointment with 2% mustard oil from pressed root, and tincture.

Aromatherapy

Ease your aching, cramping muscles with a delightfully soothing rosemary lavender massage. To prepare the blend, combine 3 drops each of German chamomile, rosemary, and ginger; 8 drops of lavender; and a If ounce of almond or avocado oil. Massage the oil into the affected muscles after a relaxing, warm bath. For a different blend, try Roman chamomile, bay, peppermint, and safflower oils. Other beneficial oils include marjoram and clary sage.

Ayurvedic Medicine

In Ayurveda, muscle cramping and spasms are caused by excess vata, which is increased by cold, too much exercise, or poor blood circulation. An Ayurvedic practitioner may suggest massaging the affected muscle with oil of shatavari to relax the muscle fibers. He also may encourage you to soak your feet in hot mustard tea.