Arthritis Pain Relief & Menthol
According to the Arthritis Foundation, dealing with pain can be the hardest part of managing arthritis or related conditions. Pain is the body's way of saying it needs help. Arthritic pain comes from joint problems such as swelling and inflammation or nerve irritation. Prescriptions and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs offer pain relief but may have side effects. Some people prefer to try natural ingredients, such as menthol, for mild to moderate pain management.
Other People Are Reading
-
Significance
-
Menthol is a compound made from oils such as peppermint oil. Known as a flavoring ingredient, menthol is used in cosmetics, toothpastes, candy and gum. Menthol is an active ingredient frequently used in topical products for aches and pains.
Products
-
Check for menthol in pain relief ointments, patches, lotions and creams. Founded in 1889, the Mentholatum brand offers topical pain relief for arthritis and other body aches. In 1903, Absorbine Jr. was developed from a horse liniment into a natural menthol product for relieving back pain and the aches of arthritis. Another common product, Bengay, is a menthol-based analgesic offering deep pain relief for arthritis. Check for menthol as an active ingredient in other products such as Icy Hot, Mineral Ice and Heet.
-
Other Ingredients
-
Ask your doctor about menthol products combining such ingredients as ibuprofen, camphor and methyl salicylate. These ingredients combined with the menthol offer added benefits such as pain relief. Some people, however, do not tolerate salicylate or ibuprofen ingredients well. If you are allergic to aspirin, a salicylate, you should not use menthol combined with these ingredients. Capsaicin, an extract of red pepper, is an ingredient in some menthol products for its anti-inflammatory effects.
Benefits
-
Use menthol products if you want a topical pain reliever for a specific arthritic joint. Apply menthol to a sore wrist, aching knee or tender shoulder joint. The menthol improves blood circulation to the area and provides a soothing effect for two to four hours. The sensation may be warm or cool, depending on your reaction and the other ingredients in the analgesic. Menthol products are usually inexpensive and store or generic brands may offer equal relief to brand names.
Considerations
-
Use menthol products as directed by your doctor or the product label. Menthol products should not be used on irritated or broken skin. Watch for side effects to capsaicin or other ingredients. If your skin has a reaction such as burning or a rash, wash off the ointment with mild soap and water. Menthol pain relievers are most effective in muscle and joint areas near the body surface. Topical applications are rarely effective on hip or other joints deep in the body.
-
