Topical Natural Pain Reliever

Topical pain relievers are used for many types of pain and pain management. You may choose to seek natural pain relief to avoid unwelcome side effects of oral analgesics or painkillers. Whether your pain is caused by an injury or a medical condition, topical natural pain relief works just as well as over-the-counter topical creams without the chemicals and steroids.

Capsaicin

Capsaicin is the component of chili peppers that makes them hot and produces the burning sensation when they come in contact with tissue, like your mouth or skin. When capsaicin is applied to the skin it is a counterirritant; it sends a message to the brain that interferes with perception of your original pain by causing a different sensation in another location. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, capsaicin can be used for various types of arthritis, muscle pain, joint pain, shingles and postsurgical pain after the wound is healed.

Capsaicin is widely sold in commercial products in drugstores or you can make your own cream. Smash a red chili pepper and thoroughly mix it into any kind of white skin cream you have on hand. Start with just a small amount until the cream turns pink.

Wintergreen

Wintergreen oil is commonly used in over-the-counter topical pain relievers such as Icy Hot or Ben Gay. The main component of wintergreen oil is a natural anti-inflammation compound called methyl salicylate, the same component as aspirin. It should only be used by people who are not sensitive to salicyates or aspirin; do not use if you are taking blood thinner medication. Don't worry about stomach sensitivities with wintergreen oil because it is not used internally. It is a powerful and effective natural pain reliever when used topically for joint, muscle pain and sports injuries.

Easily make your own balms and creams for topical natural pain relief by mixing pure essential oils with a good base or applied directly to skin. Blend 1 tsp. of wintergreen oil with 2 tsp. of carrier oil. Use olive oil or almond oil. Add these oils to 2 oz. of aloe vera gel for an effective, penetrating topical pain reliever. Do not overdo the wintergreen oil; adding more will not increase effectiveness. Only use wintergreen oil as a temporary solution for pain.

Considerations

Many people assume that just because a remedy is natural or herbal that no precautions are necessary. Many herbs are very powerful and must be used responsibly. Always consult with your health care provider and ask for advice when choosing topical natural pain relief.

When considering using a natural topical pain relievers, use precautions. Do not apply to broken or very sensitive skin; try a test patch to see if you can tolerate the solution. Avoid contact with eyes until you wash hands thoroughly.