Muscle soreness and pain are extremely common. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Pain affects more Americans than diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined.”
Whether from exercise, sitting too long, or sleeping awkwardly, almost everyone experiences some form of muscle discomfort. Pain can also result from illness or infection. Common causes of muscle pain include:
- Fibromyalgia
- Hypothyroidism
- Influenza (flu)
- Lyme disease
- Medications, especially statins for cholesterol
- Muscle cramps
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sprains and strains
The following homemade muscle rub is designed to soothe sore muscles, relieve pain, and help you relax and de-stress.
Key Pain-Relieving Ingredients
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a powerful superfood, and it also offers natural pain relief. It has been linked to easing arthritis, colds, and stomach aches. The anti-inflammatory compounds in coconut oil help reduce joint and muscle inflammation, while improving blood flow to stressed areas to promote healing.
2. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a natural compound that relieves pain by tricking your nerves into sending a “heat” signal to the brain, which then releases substance P, reducing pain perception. It is effective for arthritis, muscle soreness, and lower back pain.
3. Ginger & Turmeric
Ginger and turmeric are potent anti-inflammatory agents. Ginger is known to relieve chest, back, and joint pain, while turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, is one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatories. Both spices are commonly used to reduce chronic pain and inflammation, including rheumatoid and osteoarthritis discomfort.
Homemade Muscle Rub Recipe
Servings: About 30 applications
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- ½ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup grated beeswax
- 2 teaspoons cayenne powder
- 2 teaspoons ginger or turmeric powder
(Note: Turmeric may temporarily stain the skin) - 15 drops peppermint essential oil
- 15 drops lavender essential oil
- Glass jar for mixing
Instructions:
- Place the coconut oil and beeswax in a glass jar. Fill a saucepan with 2 inches of water and heat over medium-low.
- Place the jar in the saucepan, allowing the oil and beeswax to melt. Stir to combine.
- Add the cayenne and ginger or turmeric powder, mixing well.
- Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then add the peppermint and lavender essential oils. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into metal tins or storage containers and allow it to set.
This natural muscle rub provides effective relief for sore muscles, joint pain, and inflammation—without the chemicals found in commercial creams.
