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Horse balm, originally known as a remedy for caring for the joints of racehorses, has gained great popularity among people in recent years. Although the name may seem odd at first glance, its benefits for human health are indisputable. Originally developed by German veterinarians, the balm has proven to be very effective not only for horses but also for human joints and muscles.
History and development
Horse balm was originally developed as a warming cream for the joints of racehorses so they could prepare for strenuous exertion before races. However, once people who groomed the horses began using it, they discovered that the balm also had a positive effect on their own joints and muscles. This led to further research and improvements to the formula, resulting in a product that helps many people today.
Composition and effects
Horse balm contains several key ingredients that have various benefits:
- Horse chestnut extract: Calms and reduces inflammation.
- Rosemary: Helps with muscle and joint pain.
- Arnica: Has anti-inflammatory effects and speeds up healing.
- Camphor and menthol: Provide a cooling effect that relieves pain and soothes muscles.
- Juniper and eucalyptus: Contribute to muscle relaxation and have antiseptic properties.
Types of horse balm
Horse balm is usually divided into two main categories that differ in their effects:
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Cooling preparations: These balms usually have a blue or green color and are intended to relax muscles and relieve the discomfort associated with muscle soreness. They are also suitable for pinched nerves, rheumatism, joint and lower back pain, and are effective in treating minor sports injuries such as strains, sprains, and bruises.
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Warming preparations: You can recognize them by the red color of the packaging and the label „Hot“. These balms contain chili, which produces a warming effect. They are particularly recommended for athletes because they warm up the muscles before training and thus reduce the risk of injury. They can also be used before and after physical work, as well as to treat joint problems and injuries of the ankles, knees, lower back, wrists, and elbows.
How to use
Horse balm is applied to the affected areas of the skin and gently rubbed in. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. Before use, it is also advisable to perform a patch test on a small area of skin to verify the absence of an allergic reaction.
This versatile balm can be a helpful aid for muscle and joint pain and sports injuries. Its long history and the positive experiences of many users attest to its effectiveness and value.
