Have you lifted heavy things recently? Maybe tried out a new exercise routine? If you have, it’s likely that you have experienced sore muscles.
I used to be an avid hiker when I lived in Mexico. Now that I live in the Central Valley of California there is nothing but flat land. A few weeks ago I met up with some friends to go hiking near the coast. My once-toned muscles were in pain the next day!
Even people who have desk jobs feel the strain and tension in their back and neck from a day at a computer or doing paper work.
If you’re in pain, you want to sooth the ache so you can function like a normal person again. What do you do? Do you reach for the tube of muscle rub full of questionable ingredients? You could do that, or you could make a simple rub that heals the body with God-given herbs. I like to ease the ache by using an arnica tincture, or making my own herbal muscle rub.
It’s not as intimidating as it sounds. I made this batch in under 2 hours with only 20 minutes of active work. You won’t even miss the old tube of rub in your trash after combining a few herbs that were designed to restore your body to its healthy state! 🙂
The Herbs
Arnica is known for its ability to heal bruises and sprains. It reduces swelling and gives a sense of calm.
St. John’s wort is used to treat muscular spasms, cramps, and tension. The bioflavonoids in it reduce inflammation.
Comfrey root contains rosmarinic acid which may contribute anti-inflammatory assistance.
Lobelia is a strong relaxant. It reduces pain and muscle spasms.
Cayenne stimulates circulation and increases blood flow to the sore muscles, which may speed healing.
Essential oil blends (especially those containing things like wintergreen) relax and sooth the muscles. Use any oils that sooth and relax muscles.
Simple Herbal Muscle Rub
If you’re in pain, you want to sooth the ache so you can function like a normal person again. What do you do? Make a simple rub that heals the body with God-given herbs! I made this batch in under 2 hours with only 20 minutes of active work.
Please note that children under the age of 5 and pregnant/nursing mothers should not use this rub.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil extra virgin
- 4 tablespoons beeswax pastilles pellets or grated
- 1 tablespoon arnica flowers
- 1 tablespoon St. John's wort
- 1 tablespoon comfrey
- 1 tablespoon lobelia
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 20 drops essential oils use a muscle relaxing/soothing blend containing wintergreen (optional)
Instructions
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Pour herbs, coconut oil, and olive oil into a small saucepan.
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Heat on low until warm but not simmering. Take care not to burn the herbs.
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Turn off the heat, cover, and leave for about 30 minutes.
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Return to heat until the oil is warm but not simmering.
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Turn off the heat, cover, and leave for another 30 minutes or overnight.
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The longer the herbs steep, the more effective the rub will be.
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Strain the herbs into a small glass bowl or measuring cup using a cheese cloth or thin towel.
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Twist the cloth to remove as much of the oil as possible.
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Throw the spent herbs away.
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Pour the newly infused oil into a saucepan.
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Add the beeswax.
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Heat on low, stirring until the wax melts.
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Allow to cool slightly before adding the essential oils.
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Pour the oil into a shallow glass jar or metal tin.
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Store in a dark cupboard or in the fridge for up to 2 years.
Recipe Notes
- Children under the age of 5 and pregnant/nursing mothers should not use this rub.
Have you made an herbal muscle rub or salve before? If so, what type?
This post was featured in 20 Homemade Herbal Gifts.
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I make dandelion flower rub. Its amazing! I pick any I can find and dry and use Olive oil. You can add bees wax to give it texture, but I never get that far before I’m using it. Simple and effective! I’ll try yours too, but the cayenne is not good for me due to nerve issues. I just have a bad reaction to it, but that’s really just me! TY for sharing this! I just love all the stuff you post.
Thanks Pam. 🙂 I’d never thought of making a dandelion flower rub, I normally bake with them. It’s good that you are aware of herbs that don’t work well for you!
Do you think that some of those herbs (in a salve) might be effective for relieving menstrual cramps? Have you ever used an herbal salve in that way?
I have never used any of those herbs for menstrual cramps before. I’ll do some reading and let you know, great question!
This is wonderful Katie thank you! This is something we really could use.
You’re welcome! 🙂
I use cramp bark to muscle soreness and leg cramps. I’m sure it would also work for menstrual cramps.
Thank you for the input!
I made a cayenne pepper rub for muscle and joint aches and pains. It worked great and helped draw out the pain really well. It really felt great on your feet.
Oh, that sounds great!
I’ve use cocoanut oil, cannabis, beeswax, sunflower lecithin & essential oils. Make a very effective rub.
That sounds interesting!
My children, husband, and extended family ask for this rub. We ran out again and I am making some now. I change of some of the herbs. I have seizures and the lobelia has some history of helping decrease nerve electability. I decided to see what would happen if I added a little extra and it makes a big difference when I use the rub on days when I am exposed to extra stimuli. Thank you for sharing this rub. Oh my sister s doctor was amazed how it helped with be using after taking a tumble down three flights of stairs.
Thank you, Carrie! This is such wonderful feedback to hear! I love that you modified it to fit your needs. Thank you for sharing it with your family as well.
Can we use something else in the place of the arnica and lobelia plant if we can’t get it?
I am going to make this salve soon, I have gathered my ingredients but I was going to leave the herbs sitting in the oil for a few weeks, I think that is another method. If I did that, would I just emit the first step and after straining the herbs from oil put it on the stove top and add the beeswax?
How much does your recipe make? Atleast 8 oz.??