Arnica Lotion for Soothing the Pain Associated with Bruises and Working Out

Description

Europeans have used arnica for centuries as a bruise remedy, and folklore supports its use for pain relief as well. This arnica lotion is my original formula, prompted by the personal testimonies of others who have used arnica.

My Story

Aches come with aging. I read that lavender relieved headaches, so I reasoned that it could also help relax tight muscles. It did. I loved using the lavender-based oil I purchased at Natural Grocer’s to relax away the stiffness in my back in the morning. I didn’t smell like menthol!

Unfortunately, while it worked well for me, my massage therapist was allergic to it. So were several other people I knew. This began my search for alternatives. It led to arnica as a natural pain-relief remedy.

I purchased a tube of arnica gel to find out if arnica would work for me. It did. However, I hated the feel of the gel. It was sticky and took so long to absorb into my skin. I certainly wasn’t a product I could ask my massage therapist to use!

I wondered if I could make something better. First, I located a source of arnica oil. However, I don’t like carrying a bottle of oil around in my purse. Oils are notorious for leaking.

I made lotion bars in Canada, but they went rancid too quickly. I also had one melt in a hot car. So began my quest to learn how to make lotion. One of my soap suppliers had a general massage lotion recipe, so I tried it. I liked its feel, so I swapped in arnica oil and made my first batch of arnica lotion. The rest is history.

Lavender-free Muscle Relief*

I love the feel of this lotion. It absorbs quickly and slides on beneath my hands without friction. However, that’s not all I like about it. With a little research, I found a combination of essential oils that folklore alleges are soothing properties to complement the arnica. I used these oils to scent the lotion.

The FDA doesn’t allow me to make any claims for this lotion. I can’t tell you it will take away pain. However, test it for yourself. If your body responds to arnica, it could take the edge off your discomfort.

Arnica Lotion with a Gender-neutral Scent

Another side benefit of the essential oil combination in this arnica lotion is its non-flowery scent. There’s a hint of peppermint, yet not enough to smell like menthol. The other EOs add a subtle woodsy/herbal scent.

*The FDA has not evaluated this product, and it makes no claims to treat or heal any disease. Please consult a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms that might be connected with a disease. Do not self-diagnose.