Mustard, a common condiment, has a surprising use in the athletic world: cramp relief. While it might seem strange, many athletes, especially those in endurance sports, swear by its effectiveness. But Why Does Mustard Stop Cramps? Let’s explore the science and history behind this unusual remedy.
Mustard’s Long History as a Medicinal Aid
Mustard’s use as a medicinal plant dates back millennia. Ancient Greek thinkers like Hippocrates and Pythagoras recognized its potential health benefits, from aiding digestion to preventing seizures. Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine also utilized mustard for various therapeutic treatments. Even in more recent history, “mustard plasters” were a popular remedy in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.
Mustard for Muscle Cramps: Athlete Testimonials
Today, endurance athletes often use mustard packets for quick cramp relief during events like Spartan Races. Emma Cook-Clarke, an endurance athlete, describes mustard as a “quick Band-Aid remedy” for cramping. While it might be seen as a bit of a joke, she acknowledges its widespread use for immediate relief, though not necessarily a long-term solution. Online forums dedicated to running, cycling, and obstacle course racing are filled with anecdotal evidence supporting mustard’s cramp-stopping power.
Theories Behind Mustard’s Cramp-Stopping Power
Several theories attempt to explain why mustard might alleviate muscle cramps. Some suggest it’s the salt content, while others point to the acetic acid or even the turmeric used for coloring, which has anti-inflammatory properties. A popular theory among athletes, according to endurance coach Ian Hosek, is that mustard “jumpstarts” the brain during a cramp, interrupting the neurological signals causing the cramp.
Dr. Michael Fredericson, Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Stanford University, explains that cramps are theoretically caused by overexcited nerves in the legs. Mustard’s strong sensory input, when ingested, could potentially override these signals by stimulating nerves in the mouth and throat, preventing the pain signal from registering in the brain. This neurological “overload” theory is the basis for several commercial cramp relief products like HOTSHOT and Pickle Juice, which utilize similar strong flavors and ingredients like vinegar and salt. Research even suggests that pickle juice itself might be effective in alleviating cramps.
The Origins of Performance Mustard: A Mystery
The origin of using mustard for cramps in athletics remains unclear. Several sports history professors contacted for this article were unfamiliar with the practice. It seems this remedy might have spread organically among athletes, passed down through word-of-mouth.
Beyond Cramp Relief: Mustard’s Post-Race Appeal
Even if mustard’s cramp-relieving properties are debatable, it offers a welcome alternative to sugary sports drinks and gels. “After the race I’m really not wanting anything sugary,” says Cook-Clarke, noting mustard’s appeal on a sandwich or with a soft pretzel. Perhaps, for some athletes, mustard simply provides a palatable post-race treat. Perhaps former NHL player Mark Letestu, famously photographed eating a mustard packet on the bench during a game, simply enjoyed the flavor!
Conclusion: Does Mustard Really Work for Cramps?
While anecdotal evidence and plausible theories suggest mustard might help alleviate muscle cramps, scientific evidence is still limited. The strong sensory input from mustard could potentially disrupt the neurological signals causing cramps. However, more research is needed to definitively confirm its effectiveness. Regardless, mustard remains a popular and readily available remedy for athletes seeking quick relief from muscle cramps.
