East Asian cultures have been using herbal wraps to treat muscle strains for several centuries.
An herbal paste or plaster wrap onto an injury worn for 12 hours, then discarded. Herbal wraps have been used for centuries to help recover from muscle strains. The wraps function by helping circulation and to stabilize toxins, that can inhibit the self-healing procedure.
- cost: $50 plus for a 15-minute session. Typically a home-session starts at $200
- advantages: helps warm tissue which may increase circulation
Common herbal wrap treatments are
- arnica (Arnica montana): arnica is a classic remedy for all kinds of aches, regularly used for soft-tissue (i.e., muscle) injuries
- cayenne (Capsicum annuum, C. frutescens): it contains a chemical called capsaicin that is topical to produce a warm sensation and reduce pain
- comfrey (Symphytum officinale): it is used topically for muscles, tendons, and ligaments injuries
- eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus): an oil from this Australian plant is used topically as an analgesic and anesthetic
- peppermint (Mentha x piperita): peppermint contains menthol, a natural anesthetic and painkiller. Menthol soothes a cooling sensation
- pineapple (Ananas comosus): pineapple’s active additive is bromelain that is consumable for internal treatment. It is used commonly used immediately after inflammation, swelling, and bruising
- Saint John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum): St. John’s wort has oil that is a topical for muscle and joint injuries. It also works as an anti-inflammatory and antispas
- yarrow (Achillea millefolium): yarrow relieves pain and swelling and is traditionally used for swelling, bruising, and muscle soreness
