(originally written by Heather)
Have You Been Lifting Cars . . .
To save trapped kittens again? Bench pressing two year-olds who keep flinging themselves onto you while you read a book? Well then, I have just the thing for you.
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This homemade rub is a relaxing treat that soothes tired, achy muscles, menstrual cramps, psoriasis, arthritis pain, shingles, nerve pain and more. (source 1, source 2, source 3, source 4)
The best part? Most of the items for this recipe are probably sitting in your pantry right now . . .
- Cayenne Powder – Contains capsaicin, which reduces the amount of Substance P – a chemical pain transmitter in the body. Obviously, pain is good thing because it’s our body’s way of communicating that we need to slow down and take time to heal, but I’m fine with turning off the signal once I’ve gotten the message. Cayenne also stimulates the circulation and increases blood flow to affected area, which may speed healing.
- Ginger Root Powder – “A study conducted at the Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology in Milan, Italy suggests that ginger root may be effective as a topical anti-inflammatory. Results of the study published in a 2007 issue of ‘Planta Medica,’ showed that ginger-root extract in the form of a paste reduced inflammation in mice and had the potential to penetrate human skin. Paola Minghetti and her colleagues, the authors of the study, concluded that topical applications of ginger-root extract could improve swelling and pain in humans, as well.” (source 1, source 2)
- Essential Oils – Peppermint oil is a natural muscle relaxant and painkiller, while clove oil contains eugenol – another painkiller. Likewise, eucalyptus has long been used to soothe sore mucles (source 1, source 2, source 3)
10 drops essential oil of eucalyptus
5 drops essential oil of clove
- Coconut Oil & Cocoa Butter – Serves as a base for your balm. Omitting the use of water and extends the shelf life of this recipe considerably.
- Arrowroot/non-GMO Cornstarch – Because this is an oil-based recipe, I prefer to use arrowroot to reduce the oily texture
Now, are you ready to get started?