If you're experiencing pain, consider making your own salve to promote healing and give you some relief. Several options exist for making your own salve. You may benefit from plant extracts, herbs or even essential oils. If you'd rather purchase a natural ointment, over-the-counter options exist as well.
Calendula Salve
The American Arthritis Society recommends a calendula salve, as it's gentle to the skin but is potent and can be used for moderate pain and even light swelling. According to the Society, calendula extract comes from the marigold plant. Salicin, a substance found in marigolds, is related to the active ingredient in aspirin. Calendula can also improve circulation and ease swelling.
You can purchase calendula from an online retailer or your local health foods store. Make sure the affected area is completely clean before applying it. Apply calendula cream three times daily to painful areas.
You can also make your own calendula salve. Melt a half-pound of pork lard. In a pinch, you could also use vegetable shortening or goat milk butter. Add 1 oz. of marigold blossoms cut into small pieces. After letting the mixture sit for an hour, strain it through a cheesecloth to remove the flowers. Once the mixture cools, it's ready to be used. Keep it in a closed jar in the refrigerator. Use the salve within a week of making it.
Other Options
Along with calendula, you could try some other home remedies and alternative therapies for pain relief. Cream made from the arnica montana plant relieves muscle stiffness and aches due to minor injuries or overexertion. To use arnica, rub a thin layer of the cream over the affected area three times a day or as needed.
Or consider making another pain relief salve. Mix together 1 tbsp. chickweed powder and 1 tbsp. wormwood powder. Add the mixed herbs to 2 pints sweet olive oil and let simmer for 3 hours. Strain the mixture. Next, add 3 oz. beeswax and 10 drops tea tree oil. Keep the mixture in a closed container.
You could also try aromatherapy to help relieve your pain. Valerie Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," says to add 10 drops of lavender, 5 drops of rosemary and 15 drops of cypress to a carrier oil, such as olive oil or almond oil. Apply as needed for pain.
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