This is one of many batches of chili balm I have been making and using over the past couple of years in an ongoing search for the optimal pain-relieving balm for arthritic joints and sore muscles.

This batch contains a selection of handcrafted chili infused oils (of different scoville strengths), a combination of plant-based waxes, and a special blend of essential oils.

Another active that is included in this batch was featured in the last post on the shop blog: menthol crystals.

One might wonder what menthol - known for its cooling effect - would be doing in a chili balm meant to create warmth, but as a colleague was kind enough to remind me a while back, combining cold and hot effectors is classic for pain treatment.

Stay tuned for updates on mixing hot and cold ingredients for pain.