Rubbing alcohol: use and effect on muscle and joint problems

Above all, rubbing alcohol is known by sports enthusiasts because of its blood circulation-promoting effect. Older people also appreciate the home remedy for joint pain. We reveal what you have to consider when using it.

Until about the early 18th century, rubbing alcohol was the term used for all brandies made from wine and its remains. Since the production took place mainly in France, the name is made up of “Franz” and “Brandy”. You probably know it today as a home remedy for muscle and joint pain.

Rubbing alcohol: ingredients and effects

Rubbing alcohol consists of pure alcohol (ethanol). This is mixed with camphor, menthol, spruce needle or mountain pine oil, for example. The liquid is colorless and smells of fir forest.

• Rubbing alcohol is used for rubbing in aching, Tension, Muscle and joint pain or simply for a massage.
• The ingredient camphor ensures better blood flow to the painful area.
• At first rubbing alcohol feels cool on the skin. By rubbing in, however, you can generate the heat you need to relax the painful areas and bring the active ingredient to its destination.
• In addition, it is also advisable to treat the affected areas with heat, such as a Cherry stone pillow or a hot water bottle.

When is the best time to use rubbing alcohol?

You should massage rubbing alcohol into the affected area about twice a day. There are a few things to keep in mind:

• The alcohol it contains can dry out the skin more quickly, especially in older people. Therefore, you should only use this home remedy in moderation.
• Critics are also of the opinion that the application does indeed stimulate blood circulation, but draws the blood from another area, which is then accordingly less well supplied with blood.
• At low temperatures, the body’s own protective function is also overridden: the skin blood vessels no longer contract as a result of the treatment in order to avoid heat loss.

tip: It therefore makes most sense to use rubbing alcohol only after sport or a demanding activity.

Where can I buy rubbing alcohol?

You can buy rubbing alcohol in every drugstore and pharmacy. It can even be found in some supermarkets in the personal care and health sectors. Often times he comes with additional Medicinal plants enriched like arnica or horse chestnut.

Read more on Utopia:

• 8 wild herbs to collect in autumn
• Wildflowers are pretty, tasty, and healthy: 7 tips
• Aloe vera gel: This is how the juice of the miracle plant works