Sore joints, aching muscles and dry, chapped skin are common ailments during the colder months, but these five simple, natural remedies may help.
1. Magnesium
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral and vital for the healthy function of the brain, heart, bones, muscle contraction, and energy production. There is a lot of research documenting magnesium supplementation as being an effective way to relieve joint pain, muscle cramps, and release knots in stressed muscles by helping muscles relax.How to use magnesium
Magnesium is best absorbed through the skin. Take a magnesium salt bath by adding approximately half cup of magnesium salt flakes to a warm bath and soaking for at least 20 minutes. Add lavender essential oil for a more relaxing bath, or mandarin essential oil for a more uplifting bath. Spray magnesium oil directly on the affected area. Make your own magnesium oil by dissolving a half cup of magnesium chloride flakes in a half cup of boiling distilled water. Fill a small spray bottle with the magnesium oil and spray on sore muscles or joints. Note, magnesium oil isn't actually an oil, it just has an oily feel to it.
Our magnesium products are sourced responsibly from a protected area in the Australian dessert.
2. Eucalyptus essential oil
Along with being an excellent expectorant, eucalyptus is known to be analgesic and anti-inflammatory in nature, and it may help those suffering from rheumatism, lumbago, sprained ligaments and tendons, stiff muscles, and aches.
How to use eucalyptus essential oil
If you are experiencing joint or muscle pain, massage a few drops of eucalyptus oil (on its own or mixed with a carrier oil, like castor oil) in a circular motion on the surface of the skin.
Our eucalyptus oil is extracted from the foliage of our native Australian Eucalyptus trees.
3. Cayenne pepper
When applied topically, the capsaicin in cayenne pepper and chillies can actually help to relieve pain by de-sensitizing sensory receptors in the skin. Ironically, it is actually the burning sensation that relieves pain. As Gizmodo explains:Applied externally, chilies cause a sensation of burning, as capsaicin activates TRPV1 in nerves in the skin. But, if exposed to capsaicin for long enough, these pain nerve cells will become 'exhausted', having depleted their internal chemical stores. The nerve cells are no longer able to respond to capsaicin (or indeed, anything that might cause pain) and so you are no longer able to perceive pain. This is why chronic exposure to capsaicin acts as an analgesic.
How to use cayenne pepper
Soothe sore joints and aching muscles with a sore joint rub or sore muscle rub that is made with cayenne pepper. Or make your own cayenne pepper infused warming sore muscle rub using simple natural ingredients from our Naked Beauty Bar and pantry.
4. Green banana extract
Studies suggest that green banana extract has remarkable healing qualities. Due to it's anti-fungal, anti bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can provide relief for those suffering minor skin irritations, rash and bites, and is also a nourishing liniment for muscle or arthritis pain. IT can also be used to rejuvenate dry, chapped skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
How to use green banana extract
Natural Evolution Banana Ointment is made with antioxidant rich green banana extract. To use, rub onto tired, aching joints or muscles to soothe arthritis or muscle pain. Shop Natural Evolution Banana Ointment here > Natural Evolution's green banana products help to reduce unsaleable food waste. Green cavendish bananas are packed full of nutrients but since they cannot be sold for consumption due to specific supermarket cosmetic guidelines, they would otherwise go to waste.
5. Shea butter
Shea butter comes from the seeds of the fruit of the shea (karite) tree. It is known to be a skin superfood, naturally rich in vitamins A, E and F. The concentration of natural vitamins and fatty acids in shea butter make it incredibly nourishing and moisturising. It aids in the skin's natural collagen production and it's fatty acids work to protect and nourish the skin. Studies also suggest that shea butter is anti-inflammatory.
How to use shea butter
Make your own whipped shea body butter or shea containing balm to soothe and protect skin. We have several recipes available on our Naked Beauty Bar blog or in-store. Shop shea butter and other DIY skin care ingredients here > If you prefer pre-made products, why not try:
Mokosh Frankincense & Orange Body Cream - palm oil free, Australian made, NASAA Certified Organic, reusable glass jar
Ohana Organics Whipped Shea Butter - palm oil free, vegan, reusable glass jar
Organic Essence Whipped Shea Body Butter - palm oil free, vegan, USDA Certified Organic, compostable jar
This article is intended as an interest piece. We recommend you consult your GP for any medical concerns.
Further Reading http://www.cairnspost.com.au/lifestyle/far-northern-fruity-cure-for-whatever-ails-you https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20484832
