Oleoresin Capsicum

Capsaicin (the compound that causes the heat in peppers) is used to relieve several types of pain including neuralgia (shooting or burning pain in the nerves), muscle sprains & strains, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. It selectively stimulates certain neurons that cause the release of "Substance P" (a polypeptide involved in the transmission of pain signals through the nervous system.), depleting the body's stores of Substance P, and thus temporarily eliminating pain in the area. For more information about capsaicin, check out this resource from the NIH.

 

Volatile Oil of Mustard

For many decades, Volatile Oil of Mustard was used as an irritant (similar to capsaicin). It is anti-bacterial & anti-fungal. The pungent nature of the oil prevents the accumulation of phlegm. It stimulates sweating and enlarges and opens pores, which is helpful in lowering the local body temperature as well as for removing toxins, excess salts, and water from the body. It has been shown effective at relieving arthritis symptoms since ancient times. Often confused with the food product Mustard Oil which is banned in the US (made from pressing mustard seeds), this is a result of a grinding and distillation process and is perfectly safe and legal worldwide. For more information about Volatile Oil of Mustard, check out this resource from Organic Facts.

 

Camphor

As a topical, Camphor is used to treat pain, relieve itching, increase blood flow, and act as a counter-irritant, cooling the skin (heating and cooling helps eliminate pain and encourage blood flow to assist the body's natural healing cycle). When inhaled, the fumes of Camphor act as an anti-tussive (cough suppressant). For more information regarding Camphor, check out this resource from RxList.

 

Menthol

A main active ingredient in many topical analgesics, Menthol is an effective counter-irritant which provides a cooling sensation to the area while it numbs the pain. Used since ancient times, Menthol provides temporary relief for arthritis, backache, muscle & joint pain, and painful bruising. For more information about Menthol as a topical analgesic, check out this resource from the NIH.

 

Methyl Salicylate

Oil of Wintergreen, this is used in many topical analgesics and acts as a counter-irritant. For more information about Methyl Salicylate, check out this resource from Know Your OTCs.org.

 

Pine Oil

Known since ancient times to reduce inflammation and redness, Pine Oil is also an analgesic for aches and pains. When its fumes are inhaled it is an effective expectorant, adding to Mustard Miraculum's bona fides as a cold & cough remedy. For more information about Pine Oil, check out this resource from Organic Facts.