The treatment remedy for sore or sprained muscles is RICE, or rest, ice, compression and elevation. Some may prefer a treatment that treats sore or sprained muscles more aggressively. An option for such a treatment is a transdermal ointment. These usually include one or two active ingredients, one to treat pain and one to treat inflammation, and a base to hold the active ingredients. Always consult a physician before applying any treatments for sore or damaged muscles.
Methyl Salicylate
Methyl salicylate is one of the oldest and most commonly used remedies for muscle aches. Methyl salicylate is chemically similar to aspirin, although it is indigestible, and often accompanies menthol or camphor in creams and ointments. Whereas most distributors of topical ointments and creams procure methyl salicylate synthetically, the chemical appears naturally in wintergreen shrub leaves and sweet birch bark. Consult a physician before applying any treatments for sore or damaged muscles.
Roman Chamomile
Roman chamomile is a close relative of the widely known German chamomile. In addition to creams and ointments, Roman chamomile appears in tea, tinctures and in raw bulk. Chamomile is calming and can relieve muscle spasms. It interacts with other drugs, increasing the potency of sedatives and anticoagulants. Chamomile can exacerbate asthma and cause allergic reactions. Pregnant women should not use chamomile and if you are on other medication, consult your healthcare provider before using anything containing chamomile for possible contraindications and associated complications.
Oregano
According to the book "Medical Botany," the essential oil of oregano, or origanum vulgare, can reduce inflammation as well as aches resulting from muscle strain when combined with carvacol and thymol. You can apply the essential oil directly to the affected area or you can apply an ointment or cream containing the oregano essential oil. Consult a physician before applying any treatments for sore or damaged muscles, especially in combination with other drugs.
References
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies"; Joe Graedon and Teresa Graedon; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Roman Chamomile
- "Medical Botany: Plants Affecting Human Health"; Walter Hepworth Lewis, Memory P. F. Elvin-Lewis; 2003
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