The transition out of winter can at times take our bodies by surprise as our spring-time enthusiasm doesn't always quite match our post-winter physicality... Enter Physic Garden’s Muscle Rub - a customer fave that soothes those persistent aches and pains!
Now that the spring weather has officially sprung, we’re eager to get back outside and make the most of the increased daylight hours and warmer temps. This springtime enthusiasm however, more often than not, is met with a protest from an internal seasonal lag (i.e. winter body) that at times just isn’t as eager and/or prepared for those extended bush walks or park runs…
Image: Pinterest
The transition out of winter can at times take our bodies by surprise as our recharged and somewhat overzealous attitudes don’t quite match our post-winter physicality and we’re left nursing strains and muscle aches for days. This is why The Physic Garden’s Muscle Rub is a cabinet favourite and best-seller here at F&F as the naturally warming and relaxing balm works wonders in relieving sore and tight muscles. It’s an incredibly rich balm that when applied to the skin has a comforting warming sensation and a soothing aroma - thanks to a delightful combination of wintergreen and peppermint. The healing herbs used within the formula are well known traditional medicinal ingredients that work simultaneously to combat muscle stresses from activity as well as those all too familiar neck and back strains that can come from sitting and staring at a screen for most of the day.
Image: The Physic Garden Muscle Rub
Inspired by a personal love for nature’s healing properties, Physic Garden founder Charelle decided to harness its’ power and create a completely natural muscle rub as an alternative to popular petroleum based ointments - aka a formula that utilises the power of nature and is free from any nasty chemicals. To help you gain a better understanding of the magic within each jar, we’ve broken down the balm’s key ingredients and their mighty benefits.
Wintergreen primarily contains the active ingredient methyl salicylate (a highly regarded inflammation-fighting compound) and believed to be one of only several plants that naturally supply enough to form an extract. Wintergreen is more commonly referred to as a “counterirritant” and is a highly sought after natural ingredient to relieve muscle pain. Counterirritants work by causing irritation (that mild hot and cold sensation) which reduces pain and swelling in the underlying tissue. In other words, it will confuse and delight your nerve endings with its tingle-inducing abilities which aids in reducing swelling and encouraging circulation.
Camphor is found throughout the wood, roots and leaves of the camphor laurel tree. Similarly to wintergreen, camphor has the duel action (hot and cold) properties, where upon application it numbs and cools the nerve endings, then warms the injured area and promotes blood circulation. This analgesic effect is what makes it so effective for sore areas of the body.
Peppermint in general is one of the most famous natural healing herbs and has been used for centuries for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Due to the presence of menthol, peppermint oil is often recommended to be used topically for its cooling effect on sore, achy muscles. In addition to this, peppermint essential oil displays antimicrobial properties which is why it is also often used to fight infections.
Comfrey is another medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of pain and inflammation related issues. As seen in some studies comfrey application improves the healing and pain response of bruises, sprains and painful muscles and joints, particularly related to exercise.
Shea butter - Obtained from the nuts of the shea tree, shea butter contains high does of both vitamin A and vitamin E and aids in numerous skin conditions such as dry skin, blemishes, wrinkles, stretch marks, muscle fatigue, dermatitis, etc. Shea butter is a popular ingredient in creams and balms as it aids the application and absorption of the oils in addition to deeply moisturising the skin.
To apply The Physic Garden’s Muscle Rub simply massage into sore or tight muscles, morning and or at night. Be sure to take a moment to inhale the calming scent which will soothe the mind and calm the senses. You may even find that the mint alleviates some respiration issues.
Note* - An F&F customer swears by this balm to combat her kids bruises that come with regular sporting activities. Recommended for ages 5 years & up.
Handmade in Melbourne, Australia. You can find the whole The Physic Garden range at Flora & Fauna.
Ingredients: Shea Butter*, Olive Oil infused with Comfrey, Candelilla Wax, Essential Oils (White Camphor, Peppermint, Wintergreen & Eucalyptus) (*Certified Organic Ingredient)
