Homemade Arthritis Liniments

Arthitis causes painful, swollen joints.

Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints. According to the Mayo Clinic, arthritis results in painful swelling and often causes joint deformity. Homemade Medicine states that it is possible to relieve painful swelling with homemade liniments. These liniments contain natural ingredients that, when applied to the skin, help reduce pain and swelling caused by arthritis. If you prefer to use homemade treatments instead of over-the-counter medications, you can easily make liniments from home.

Things You'll Need

• 2 cups paraffin wax
• 1 cup grated horseradish
• 1 cup salt
• 1 cup dry mustard
• Small bowl
• Spoon
• Plastic container

Instructions

Horseradish

1. Melt 1 cup of paraffin wax in a small, microwavable bowl.

2. Pour 1 cup of grated horseradish into the melted paraffin wax and mix to form a smooth paste. According to Glenn S. Rothfeld and Suzanne LeVert, authors of "Natural Medicine for Arthritis," the enzymes in horseradish will penetrate your skin, reducing pain and swelling in your joints.

3. Pour the mixture into a plastic container and seal with a lid. Allow the mixture to cool.

4. Apply the liniment to the affected area and wrap with soft fabric. Allow the liniment to sit on the skin for three to five hours before rinsing with warm water. Apply once daily as symptoms persist.

Mustard

1. Melt 1 cup of paraffin wax in a small, microwavable bowl.

2. Pour 1 cup dry mustard and 1 cup salt into the melted paraffin wax and stir together to make a smooth paste. According to Michael T. Murray, author of "Arthritis: Your Natural Guide," salt will help draw water out of your body and reduce swelling. In addition, the enzymes in mustard will penetrate your skin and alleviate pain.

3. Pour the liniment into a small plastic container and seal with a lid; allow the mixture to cool.

4. Apply the liniment to the affected area and wrap with soft fabric. Allow the liniment to sit on the skin overnight before rinsing with warm water. Apply once daily as symptoms persist.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult with your physician before applying a homemade liniment to your skin.

• Homemade liniments are not a replacement for medical care.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Homemade Medicine: Home Remedies For Arthritis
• "Arthritis: Your Natural Guide to Healing with Diet, Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, Exercise, and Other Natural Methods"; Michael T. Murray; 1994
• "Natural Medicine for Arthritis: The Best Alternative Methods for Relieving Pain and Stiffness: from Food and Herbs to Acupuncture and Homeopathy"; Glenn S. Rothfeld and Suzanne LeVert; 1996