Arnica vs Biofreeze: Which is better for relieving pain?

I love finding effective, natural alternatives to common household products.

While topical muscle creams have a purpose, I love that I can use this arnica for every single person in my family. This post will tell you all about what arnica is, and if it may be a good choice for your family too!

Did you know that pain is one of the most common complaints people have and the top reason they seek medical care? And often the recommendation is to take something over the counter every few hours until the pain subsides. But what if there were healthier, more natural options to pain relief?

Over the last few months my family has gone through quite a bit of our topical arnica salve-- between toddler bumps and bruises and sore muscles from working out, it has been something we keep handy. But whenever I mention it, people always follow up with "oh, is it like biofreeze?"

Unlike other popular muscle rubs, muscle creams and topical analgesics (or in other words, topical pain relievers), arnica is made of all-natural ingredients and herbal extracts. This makes it one of my favorite products to keep on hand for common injuries, joint pain, and even bruising.

TLDR: I love this topical arnica from Earthley for injuries and pain relief. Everything from sore muscles, bumps, and bruises— it is a product that is safe for every single member in my family. You can use code HELLONATURAL for 10% off your order ✨

But what even is arnica?

Arnica is an herbacous plant native to north america and europe, but with other species growing all over the world. Arnica montana is the most popular variety and what is found in many commercial products. 

But don't let the pretty yellow or orange flowers fool you. Arnica can pack a mean punch if not dealt with properly. This statement is from the Cleveland clinic:

"While generally safe and arguably effective when applied topically, arnica is no delicate flower. The herb contains a toxin called helenalin, which is deadly if consumed in large quantities. Arnica can be used to flavor food, but some countries have banned culinary use entirely, in an attempt to prevent accidental poisoning."

Some studies backing it up:

• this randomized, double-blind study showed arnica just as effective at treating osteoarthritis of the hand as ibuprofen (one of the most popular oral nsaids). The other interesting piece is that 6 people complained of side effects with ibuprofen, while 5 people reported side effects with arnica. These are really close numbers and studies need to be done on a larger scale, but it shows the two being really comparable options!

• this blinded randomized trial showed arnica as an effective solution for improving bruising 

How to use arnica 

My favorite arnica product is from Earthley because of its attention to ingredients and using high-quality products. I also love that their arnica salve comes in an easy-to-apply stick. All you do is rub it over the affected area (whether its an area of bruising, muscle pain, or an injury). 

• When using, avoid any open wounds or scrapes on the skin!

• This is for external use only-- should it be ingested, call the poison control center

• If you have sensitive skin, spot test it in a small area before using it on large areas to avoid irritation

• while allergic reactions are not common, they are always possible when trying new products

What about Biofreeze?

With biofreeze, the active ingredient is menthol-- which is what gives biofreeze that popular cooling sensation. But there are a few other ingredients added to the mix. Here is the full list of inactive ingredients:

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Arctium Lappa Root (Burdock) Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Blue 1, Boswellia Carterii Resin Extract, Calendula Officinalis Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Camphor, Carbomer, Glycerin, Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Extract, Isopropyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Myristate, Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Leaf Extract, Silica, Tocopheryl Acetate, Triethanolamine, Water, Yellow 5

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), Biofreeze gets a rating of 4/10. If you are unfamiliar with EWG, they rate popular household, beauty, and cosmetic products for their ingredient safety. I've linked their page so you can see the specific ingredients and their corresponding risks

So which one is better?

I share a lot about non-toxic products around here. But i also try to educate on the nuance of products, and living a life of holistic balance. If you are living in fear of certain "chemicals", i'd argue that is just as harmful (if not more) for your health than a single ingredient. We also have different priorities and bodily resilience. That means that an ingredient may cause more problems for one person over another. That is why I'm all about educating you and providing you the resources to make the best choice for you.

With that said, my top choice is arnica. 

Here's why. 

In my home, I don't want a ton of products. I want a few items that work really well. That means I love when something is safe for my entire family to use. I can put arnica on my husband's shoulder, on the goose egg on my toddler's forehead, and whatever else my family has got going on 😅

But i'll be honest-- there are plenty of products I use that are rated a 4. And something like muscle rub or topical products for pain are not something we use every single day. So if you have biofreeze in the cabinet and it works for you, i'd say go for it. 

Another product with that "icy hot" sensation that I really like is Deep Blue by doTerra. I have used this for years for temporary relief of minor aches and pains, along with more chronic pain that's ongoing. (I had an old ankle injury that occasionally acts up with certain activity, and this is a great option to have on hand alongside arnica!)

Some other options...

• Tiger balm is another popular choice with healthcare professionals, physical therapists, and massage therapists. And while it is a more affordable option, personally, it ain't my favorite. I don't love the consistency or the smell.

• Having a good heating pad on hand is a great option for relieving muscle soreness

• an all-natural (and most affordable!) option for a soothing cold sensation, is an ice pack! A great option immediately after an injury to decrease pain and swelling. 

• as always, before starting a new product chat with your personal medical professionals to see if it may be right for you. 

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