Spasmolytics

Definition

Antispasmodic/Spasmolytic is a substance that reduces or relieves smooth muscle spasm (involuntary contractions).

How Spasmolytics Work

Antispasmodics/spasmolytics are used to help relieve excessive, or over-contraction of smooth muscle.  These contractions can lead to severe pain in some situations.

A precipitating factor of muscle spasm appears to be stress, whereby a person may experience exacerbations of symptoms during stressful periods in their lives.  

Holistic practitioners aim to treat the cause as well as relieve the symptoms therefore usually utilise several remedies in a prescription which address precipitating or causative factors.  These may include nervines, adaptogens, anti-inflammatories, hormonal modulators, and circulatory stimulants amongst others.

Very common conditions where muscle spasm may be a factor include dysmenorrhoea, IBS, nervous dyspepsia, colic and flatulence, asthma and high blood pressure.

 

References

  1. Balch, J.F. & Stengler, M.(2004).Prescription for Natural Cures: a self-care guide for treating diseases and health problems with natural remedies including diet and nutrition, herbal medicine, nutritional supplements, bodywork, and more. John Wiley & Sons, Inc
  2. Bone, K. (2003). A clinical guide to blending liquid herbs. St. Louis, MO: Churchill Livingstone

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