The different types of natural liniment remedies include the use of various herbs used to make all-natural preparations for the treatment of painful swellings, bruises, boils, pimples and skin eruptions of any kind. They also are used to relieve the discomfort caused by headaches and rheumatism. There are commercially produced liniments and ones that are all-natural and homemade, usually referred to as herbal liniments. Even all-natural, homemade herbal liniments can be of different types, because various substances can be used to extract the therapeutic properties of a plant. These substances include rubbing alcohol, which is not considered natural; white distilled vinegar; and an oil, such as olive oil.
Herbs employed in the making of a commercial or homemade natural liniment remedy are selected specifically for their medicinal properties that are needed to treat a specific ailment. For example, stimulating herbs such as cayenne and eucalyptus promote circulation, bringing warmth to an affected area where sore muscles need treatment. Antispasmodic herbs such as lobelia often are used to help relax muscles. Those who wish to use a natural liniment instead of a commercially made one can consult the Internet or books on herbs and alternative medicine for advice on which medicinal plants to use to treat specific ailments.
After the herbs to be used to make the natural liniment are chosen, the substance in which they will be extracted is chosen. The ingredients are combined and shaken well daily for a minimum of a week, after which the herbs are decanted off and the liniment is bottled, preferably in corked bottles. Those who want an herbal liniment that truly is all natural are advised to avoid the use of isopropyl — or rubbing alcohol, as it is known in the United States and Canada. They can opt for the more expensive but all-natural grain alcohol such as vodka, gin or rum instead.
Natural liniments can be used in a variety of ways to achieve relief from discomfort. For example, they can be applied to the temples, the forehead and the back of the neck to help relieve headaches. Relief from a toothache sometimes can be achieved by applying the natural liniment directly to the tooth, on the gums surrounding the tooth and the outside of the jaw if the pain is severe. Commercial liniments, including those that are advertised as all natural, should be used only according to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer, in order to avoid injury. These products might contain chemicals that prevent them from being used in the same way that a truly natural liniment remedy can be safely employed.