Muscle pain.

Botanical name: 
Capsicum annuum
Problems: 
Muscle pain
Preparations: 
Cayenne wax

Date: Wed, 8 Feb 1995 11:20:30 -0800
Sender: Medicinal and Aromatic Plants discussion list <HERB.TREARN.BITNET>
From: Anita F Hales <JSAFH.ACA.ALASKA.EDU>
Subject: Re: Muscle Strain

I've had good results using arnica ointment and cayenne hotpot along with the icing and massage. To make a hotpot, melt about ½ cup of beeswax in a double boiler and add a couple of chopped peppers. (dried peppers also work but not as well). Simmer the peppers in the beeswax for about 10-15 minutes and strain. Apply the wax warm to the aflicted area with a paint brush and remove the excess wax. Massage the area well and deeply. Covering the waxed area with a cloth makes it penetrate better. I usually alternate icing and arnica and waxing with massage. It works very well for me. I used this method for sprains and tendonitis. It may be good for arthritis and rheumatism as well.