Cayenne salve

So cayenne is particularly effective when used topically. It has been show in studies to reduce pain in diabetic neuropathy, shingles, migraine headaches, back aches, muscle aches,  arthritis, menstrual cramps and bruises.   This salve can also stop a wound from bleeding. It will sting a little but it worry. I find that it is best to apply the slave with gloves on or  cotton swab. 

This topical pain relief action is thought to be from selective stimulation of afferent C fibers, which act as thermoreceptors and nociceptors, and release of substance P, a sensory neurotransmitter that mediates pain (NSD).


This is very quick and easy to make. Just three simple ingredients and a little time and you have another item to add to your herbal first aid kit.

 Ingredients 

1/2 cup oil (grapeseed, olive or cocnut) 
2 TBP of Cayenne powder. 
1/2 oz of beeswax 
Double boiler
Cheesecloth/ coffee filters
Makes roughly 4 ounces

Directions:

Heat the oil and cayenne until it is warm. Once warm turn off the heat and let it sit on the eye for about 20 minutes, then turn the heat on again. 
This should be done a few times, well about 3 times in one hour. This will allow the herb to infuse in to the oil. 
At this point strain  the powder through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter. 
Keep the oil. 
In your clean double boiler heat the beeswax until it is melted.
 Stir in the infused oil until the beeswax and oil have been thoroughly melted together and combined. Pour this mixture into jars or tins.
 Let it cool and then label it.


After apply the salve wash your hands not with water. Not only water but with vinegar a water. The diluted vinegar solution will remove the capsaicin form the hands.  The active constituent, is not water washable. Warning  do not use capsaicin preparations near the eyes or on sensitive skin.