Skin pain may be caused by a wide variety of ailments, ranging from sunburns to chronic conditions such as psoriasis or shingles. It is possible to have other symptoms accompanying skin pain, such as rash, blistering or scaling; however, these symptoms are directly related to the underlying cause of skin pain. While treatment options vary according to the actual cause of pain, certain herbs may be used to help dull or eliminate skin pain. While certain herbs have shown positive results in treating skin pain, discuss the use of any herbal supplement with your physician prior to starting a supplementation routine.
Cayenne
Cayenne has been utilized for its flavoring and medicinal qualities for 9,000 years, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The active compound within cayenne is known as capsaicin; however, other active constituents include flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamins A and C. Capsaicin is a popular ingredient among topical ointments for skin pain, specifically for pain caused by psoriasis, shingles and post-surgical pain. It is suggested that capsaicin works by inhibiting production of substance P, which is a chemical responsible for transmitting pain signals. By limiting the transmission of this compound, pain may be temporarily diminished. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests using a topical ointment with a 0.075 percent capsaicin concentration. As with any topical supplement, cayenne features the potential of adverse side effects. The most common side effect is a burning sensation when first applied; however, this sensation should dissipate after several minutes. Cayenne is not water soluble, thus to remove from the skin, scrub the area with white vinegar. Discontinue use if skin irritation does not improve after two to four weeks.
Aloe Vera
The use of aloe vera to treat internal and external ailments dates back thousands of years, and while modern science has debunked some of the traditional uses of aloe, its use to treat skin pain is backed by the scientific community. The primary active compounds found within aloe include polysaccharides and glycoproteins. Polysaccharides are known to enhance skin cell repair and growth, while glycoproteins are believed to hinder pain signals and alleviate skin inflammation. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports aloe has the same anti-inflammatory benefits as 1 percent hydrocortisone cream, and may be used to treat minor burns and cuts as well as psoriasis. Never apply aloe cream or gel to broken skin or open wounds. Aloe is generally considered safe for most skin types; however, if a rash develops, immediately discontinue use. Do not consume aloe internally, as this may cause severe gastrointestinal cramping and diarrhea. Discuss the use of aloe with your physician if you're currently applying topical medications to the skin, as the use of aloe with other ointments may cause adverse reactions.
Arnica
Arnica rose to popularity within the 1500s, and since then it is commonly used by alternative medicine practitioners as a topical ointment to treat a wide variety of skin pain ailments. Some of the active constituents believed to provide its medicinal qualities include polysaccharides, coumarins, flavonoids, terpenoids and choline. While the effectiveness of arnica is still under debate, initial studies outlined by the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center state that topical application may help reduce skin inflammation, postoperative skin pain and skin bruising. The topical application of arnica is generally safe; however, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports prolonged use may cause skin irritation, blistering, eczema and peeling. Do not apply arnica to broken skin, and discuss the use of this herb with your physician -- especially for those with hypersensitive skin.
Burdock
Burdock may be found throughout the United States where it typically grows as weeds; however, this plant has been utilized for a variety of medicinal purposes for centuries. The topical application of burdock is traditionally used to treat symptoms associated with acne, psoriasis and eczema; however, its internal usage is mainly utilized as a diuretic. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports the scientific community is investigating this herb to locate its medicinal compounds; however, it is believed this herb is useful as it contains antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The external application of burdock is considered safe; however, discuss its use if you have serious skin diseases, such as shingles, psoriasis or eczema. Do not combine burdock with prescription ointments without the direct consent of your doctor.
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