I've only used Flexeril as a prescript
ion muscle relaxant. Yes---it makes me sleepy, too! I sometimes take only 1/2 or even 1/4 of a tablet and see how that works before adding another 1/4 or so, tablet. I know this doesn't help those times when we're super stiff and sore. I then 'bite the bullet' and take a whole Flexeril, but I find I often get very drowsy.
Whether it's a prescript
ion or something 'natural' and/or herbal, I make sure I don't have to drive anywhere after taking something to relax my muscles.
I know magnesium is good for relaxing muscles, but it can also cause more trips to the bathroom if too much is taken. If anyone is considering using magnesium, I would start with a small dose. Magnesium malate by Puritan is good. I think Swanson vitamins also has magnesium malate, though I haven't tried theirs.
I also mix Epsom salts (contains magnesium) with water and add a little lavender for a relaxing scent and rub it on my feet and legs after a shower. Can be drying, though, because it's so salty.
Valerian is calming, and I know other herbs such as passion flower and chamomile are, too. Puritan has something called "Calm Tabs" which contain these and a few other things. Chamomile tea helps relax my muscles a little at times.
Celestial Seasonings has a Sleepytime (I think it's called) tea and Myself '09, in another post, recently mentioned they now have a Sleepytime Extra with valerian added. Sweet Dreams tea by Bigelow is also good. I sometimes have success with those.
** Important: You likely already know this, but make sure you ask your doctor before starting anything herbal, as it can interfere with other meds.** I also don't drive when I take any meds or relaxing herbs.
My M-I-L has restless legs and has good luck with Hyland's Restful Legs. It has some ingredients I can't even pronounce and is homeopathic, but again, make sure you ask your doctor before using. I haven't tried it, but maybe it could help with mild stiffness; I don't know.
The herbal remedies, teas, etc. are for when my muscles are just a little agitated and stiff. I so hope they come up with a muscle relaxer SOON for those days when things are so much worse!
Hope this helped at least a little. Since you mentioned herbal, I probably didn't tell you anything new. Maybe others here have some ideas. I hope so! Best wishes.
