Heat rub

Heat rub is the name for a variety of products intended to relieve the pain of fibrositis, lumbago and muscular aches and strains. They are so named because they produce a feeling of warmth within the muscle of the area they are applied to, typically acting as rubefacients via a counterirritant effect.

Heat rubs are typically applied in cream form, but patches, sticks and sprays are also available.

Active ingredients are typically Menthol and Methyl Salicylate but could also include more exotic ingredients like cayenne.

The methyl salicylate that is the active analgesic ingredient in some heat-rub products can be toxic if they are used in excess.[1] Heating pads are also not recommended for use with heat rubs, as the added warmth may cause overabsorption of the active ingredients.

See also

References

  1. ↑ “Muscle Cream Caused NYC Teen's Death”, USA Today, retrieved April 2, 2012

External links


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