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The Simple Trick My Nana Taught Me
My Nana is one of those wise women who always seems to have a remedy for everything—most of which involve little more than common household items. So when she saw me wincing from yet another leg spasm one evening, she calmly told me to grab a bar of soap.
Yes, you read that right—a bar of plain, old-fashioned soap. Here’s what she instructed me to do:
Find a Bar of Soap: Any kind will do, though Nana insisted on using a basic, unscented bar. She swears by the classic white soap, but others have had success with various types.
Place It Under Your Sheets: Simply slide the bar of soap under your fitted sheet, positioning it near the area where you frequently experience spasms. For example, if you get cramps in your legs, place the soap near your feet or calves.
Sleep with It There: Leave the soap under your sheet and go to sleep as usual. According to Nana, the soap works its magic while you sleep.
Why Does It Work?
This was my first question after trying it out—how could something as simple as a bar of soap possibly help with muscle spasms? While there’s no definitive scientific explanation, there are a few theories:
Electromagnetic Field: Some believe that the soap generates a mild electromagnetic field that interacts with the nerves or muscles, helping to prevent spasms.
Placebo Effect: Others suggest that the effect might be psychological—if you believe the soap will help, your brain may relax the muscles as a result.
Aromatherapy: Though Nana insists on using unscented soap, some scented varieties contain essential oils that are known to relax muscles and ease tension. Lavender soap, for instance, might offer additional benefits.
Magnesium Content: Some soaps, particularly natural or handmade varieties, contain magnesium—a mineral known to help with muscle cramps. While the amount absorbed through the skin is likely minimal, it could contribute to the overall effect.
My Experience
Skeptical but willing to try anything for relief, I placed a bar of soap under my sheet as Nana advised. To my surprise, the frequency and intensity of my spasms reduced significantly within the first few nights. While I occasionally still get the odd cramp, they’re nowhere near as severe or frequent as before.
Other family members have tried this trick, too, with varying levels of success. Some experience immediate relief, while others notice only a slight improvement. However, considering the simplicity and low cost of the remedy, it’s worth trying if you’re plagued by muscle spasms.
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