Crafting your own pain relief balm is simple and effective. These recipes combine natural ingredients with soothing essential oils to help relieve sore muscles and joint pain.
**Arnica and Peppermint Muscle Rub**
Ideal for relieving muscle tension and soreness.
**Ingredients**:
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or jojoba oil)
- 1 teaspoon arnica oil
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
- 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
**Steps**:
1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax pellets and coconut oil together over low heat.
2. Once melted, stir in the olive oil and arnica oil.
3. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before adding the peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils.
4. Pour the mixture into a small, clean jar or tin and let it set at room temperature.
5. Apply a small amount to sore muscles and gently massage.
**Benefits**:
- Arnica oil reduces inflammation and soothes soreness.
- Peppermint and eucalyptus oils provide a cooling, pain-relieving sensation.
**Cayenne and Ginger Warming Balm**
Perfect for improving circulation and warming stiff muscles.
**Ingredients**:
- 1/4 cup shea butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon beeswax
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper powder
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
**Steps**:
1. Melt the shea butter, olive oil, and beeswax together in a double boiler.
2. Once fully melted, stir in the cayenne pepper and grated ginger.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove the ginger solids.
4. Add the lavender essential oil and mix well.
5. Pour into a clean container and allow it to solidify.
6. Massage a small amount into stiff areas as needed.
**Benefits**:
- Cayenne contains capsaicin, which provides a warming effect to reduce pain.
- Ginger improves circulation and eases discomfort.
- Lavender essential oil adds a calming scent.