Honestly, there is no reason anyone should die for the sake of sore muscles, but that’s just what happened to a high school girl from New York last year. I know you don’t think those over-the-counter rubs could be dangerous but they can be. The most common chemicals-lLidocaine, methyl salicylate, and hydrocortisone–can be lethal in high amounts.

Lidocaine is a topical anesthetic. When it’s left on too long, or applied in too strong a dose, it can cause a coma or death.

Methyl salicylate is akin to topical aspirin. Just as you can overdose on aspirin, you can overdose on this chemical too. Rubs with methyl salicylate may also interact with blood-thinning prescription drugs.

Hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory topical steroid that shrinks swollen tissue by constricting blood vessels. Hydrocortisone is often used to stop the itching caused by chronic skin conditions. If misapplied, this cream can cause hypopigmentation and irritation.

Your skin can protect you from many things, but it is not impervious to toxins. The safe way to use muscle rubs is to apply a small amount to a small area. Of course you can forego the commercial varieties and make a safer version using essential oils.

There are also many safe, ready-made muscle rubs using herbs and essential oils. A safe, natural alternative is to make your own. A benefit of essential oils is that they quench free radicals and protect newly-formed cells from environmental factors.

Sore Muscle Blend

Use this after a workout or for arthritis.

For the carrier oil mix 5 ounces of avocado oil, 1 ounce of arnica oil, and ½ ounce of Vitamin E oil. Arnica by itself is great for sore muscles and has a lovely herbal smell. The Vitamin E oil acts as an antioxidant.

20 drops eucalyptus citriadora (keeps muscles fluid and supple)

15 drops rosemary (analgesic effect, clears toxins out of the system by stimulating lymph flow)

15 drops juniper (prevents the accumulation of toxins, similar in properties to rosemary)

20 drops helichrysum oil (gentle anti inflammatory oil and prevents bruises)

Aromatherapy is safe and effective at stimulating circulation, balancing the nervous system, and healing muscle tissue.

Store in a glass bottle and use as needed.