They contain a wide variety of active ingredients.
Andresr / Getty Images
Arnica
Arnicais an herb, and its flowers are commonly used in medicine.
It contains active chemicals that can aid in reducing swelling and decreasing pain and act as an antibiotic.
Andresr / Getty Images
Be sure to use only as directed.
Arnica can be unsafe when taken by mouth.
Speak with your healthcare provider and follow the dosage recommendations on any products containing Arnica.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a chemical compound derived from chili peppers.
Capsaicin is potent and is in small doses in muscle rubs.
Menthol
Menthol is a common active ingredient in topical pain relief products.
It provides a cold sensation once applied.
Instead, it works to override the pain sensation with a cooling sensation.
Menthol can be paired with other ingredients to add to its cooling power.
It’s found in the following OTC products:
Menthol and capsaicin cause local heat.
Consult a healthcare provider before using lidocaine.
Turmeric
Turmericmight be a familiar name to you.
It has a chemical calledcurcumin, which can help decrease swelling, especially in arthritis.
Muscle cream products that contain turmeric include:
Turmeric is a natural ingredient.
Therefore, there are limited concerns about the safety of the substance.
Do not take turmeric products if you are allergic to turmeric or any ingredients contained in this drug.
When applying a muscle cream, the first step is washing and drying your hands.
Next, read the packaging completely to note the dose recommendation, directions, and warnings.
Apply the cream to the affected area or where you feel pain.
Some muscle creams can be applied up to four times per day.
Be sure to follow the directions and do not use more than recommended.
Wash your hands after utility, and store the cream in a safe and cool place.
Harvard Health Publishing.Rubbing it in.
Kriplani P, Guarve K, Baghael US.Arnica montana L. - a plant of healing: review.J Pharm Pharmacol.
2017 Aug;69(8):925-945. doi: 10.1111/jphp.12724
MedlinePlus.Arnica.
Cameron M, Chrubasik S.Topical herbal therapies for treating osteoarthritis.Cochrane Database Syst Rev.
2013 May 31;5(5):CD010538.
2018 Jun;43(3):313-319. doi: 10.1111/jcpt.12679
Cleveland Clinic.Lidocaine topical lotion.
2020 Oct 8;20(1):305. doi: 10.1186/s12906-020-03105-0
