Peppermint essential oil has a cooling sensation and may help soothe sore muscles and tendons for some people when it is applied topically. Because it can be irritating to the skin, however, it should be diluted in coconut, olive, or another such oil before being applied.
If you’d like to make a soothing muscle cream with peppermint essential oil at home, you can try this recipe. Additional oils may be added and we’ve given some options for those, as well.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup solid coconut oil
- 15 drops peppermint essential oil
Directions:
- In a glass bowl, mix coconut oil and peppermint oil. Blend together with hand mixer until a whipped consistency is achieved.
- Apply as needed, avoiding the eyes and nose.
- Store unused portion in glass jar.
*Additional essential oils that might be helpful for muscle soreness include wintergreen (must be kept out of reach of children and pets), copaiba, and lavender.
You can learn more about peppermint oil here: “Peppermint Essential Oil: An Overview.”
Originally I was going to try this recipe on my husband as he has a knee injury from work. However, he decided he didn’t want to try it, he didn’t like the peppermint smell or the idea I was going to make something myself instead of just using something from the store. (Frustrating!) Disappointed, I decided to try the batch I mixed on myself as I didn’t want to waste it. I have tendonitis in my shoulder and have been having a lot of aches. My shoulder felt more relaxed and I think it did honestly help a bit. I kept raving to my husband enough that he agreed to let me try it on him, FINALLY. Yay!