There are many arthritis pain relief products on the market to choose from and choosing one can be confusing if you don't know the facts. Many of these products come in the form of topical cream preparations that are applied directly to the skin.
When shopping for an arthritis pain relief cream, make a note of the active ingredient listed on the product label or in the ingredients section of the website if you're buying online. The active ingredient is primarily what makes the product relieve arthritis pain, although some of the inactive ingredients may do so as well.
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Many of the arthritis pain relief creams contain capsaicin. This is the compound found in all hot peppers and causes the burning effect. This ingredient is irritating to all mammals, including humans, and produces a burning sensation on contact with the skin.
It is this burning affection that covers the pain. The number of burns varies from person to person. If you have sensitive skin, stay away from arthritis pain products that contain capsaicin!
Methyl salicylate and trolamine salicylate are also common active ingredients in arthritis pain relief products. These salicylic acid compounds are chemically similar to the active ingredient in aspirin. If you are allergic to aspirin, you should consult a doctor before using products that contain salicylic acids. Methyl salicylate is sometimes used as a mint in various gum and candies, as an alternative to peppermint and spearmint oils. Creams that use this ingredient will generally exhibit a minty odor.
One of the most common active ingredients in arthritis creams is menthol. Menthol is an organic compound obtained from peppermint or other peppermint oils and can be manufactured synthetically. It has local anesthetic or numbing properties due to its cooling sensation when applied to the skin. Like capsaicin, it covers the pain. Menthol products generally exhibit a strong peppermint odor.