Sorely Needed: Homeopathic Rubs Provide Relief

Walk into any locker room and you’re bound to be hit with the eye-stinging aroma of a topical sports rub. You’ve probably tried such treatments yourself, experiencing the hot/cold sensation that’s usually brought on by menthol or capsaicin. The relief is short-lived, and you may be left feeling greasy and, shall we say, aromatic. Homeopathic gels, creams, and ointments offer quick relief from the pain and inflammation of strains, sprains, bruises, and arthritis—without the negatives. A 2011 study found one such remedy to be “greater than the sum of the active components, suggesting a synergistic interaction between all components of the preparation.” Ingredients in that formula included Aconitum napellus, Arnica montana, Echinacea purpurea, Calendula officinalis, and Hypericum perforatum, among others. Topical homeopathic rubs are often made with a vegetable oil base, and they tend to be odor free and nonstaining. This chart presents the particular benefits of ingredients in homeopathic pain-relieving creams, gels, and ointments. Homepathic Rubs Topical Remedy Uses Notes Aconitum napellus inflammatory rheumatism may fight infections Arnica montana dislocations, soft-tissue bruising don’t use on broken skin Belladonna stiff, swollen joints may reduce throbbing Bellis perennis dislocations, deep bruising useful for abdominal bruising Bryonia inflamed joints, stiffness for pain aggravated by motion Calendula officinalis slowly healing wounds decreases infection risk Chamomilla hard-to-heal wounds eases leg cramps Echinacea purpurea inflammation speeds wound healing Hypericum perforatum very painful injuries works well with Calendula Matricaria recutita inflammation inhibits swelling Rhus tox deep joint and muscle pain particularly good for the back Ruta bone bruises, sprains best for knee, elbow, shin