Topical Anti-Inflammatory Home Remedies

Over the counter painkillers aren’t always the best solutions for dealing with pain and inflammation. Many feel as though they would much rather try natural remedies to cope with inflammation rather than to risk growing dependent on over the counter pain killers. Therefore, topical anti-inflammatory home remedies can be a great alternative. Listed here are the best ones you can use to treat pain and inflammation.

Ice

Ice is probably the simplest but most effective topical anti-inflammatory home remedy you can use. Applying ice, or cold therapy works by restricting blood flow to the area of the skin which can significantly reduce inflammation. Simply fill up a plastic bag with ice or use an icepack with a towel wrapped around and apply it to the area of inflammation. Be sure not to directly apply ice to your skin as this can cause an ice burn.

Garlic

Due to its antimicrobial properties, garlic is a natural remedy for fighting infections and reducing inflammation. This natural remedy has been used for centuries for the purpose of relieving pain and inflammation. To apply garlic topically you can use garlic past on the area of the body that is inflamed. You can massage it on the are or you can simply let it sit on the skin for 20 minutes or so.

Devils Claw Ointment

Although the name sounds somewhat menacing, devils claw is a great anti-inflammatory agent. Devils claw contains iridoid glycosides which are known to have some pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Although you can buy raw devils claw, for topical use you can buy devils claw ointment.

Arnicaanti-inflammatory home treatment

Arnica is a great topical anti-inflammatory home remedy. It has the ability to reduce inflammation by increasing circulation in the affected area. You can begin to use arnica by grinding the flower and then rubbing it on your skin. It won’t work miracles right away but with frequent use, it has a good effect. You can also use arnica in a paste.

Epsom Salt

Epsom salt baths are the great home treatment of inflammation. The minerals of Epsom salts allow your body to relax and release toxins and impurities. If you have inflammation on multiple parts of the body, taking an Epsom salt bath would be beneficial.