Arnica, MSM and boswellia: what is in a massage gel

Arnica

Arnica montana is a yellow alpine flower whose extracts have been rubbed on bruises and sore muscles for generations. It is for external use only: do not apply it to broken skin, and stop if the skin reddens or itches. People allergic to the daisy family are more likely to react.

MSM and boswellia

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a sulphur-containing compound found in small amounts in food. Boswellia is the resin of the frankincense tree. Both are better known as oral supplements, and the research behind them is mostly about that use; what a small amount in a gel does through the skin is less clear.

What the massage itself does

Much of the comfort from a gel comes from the rubbing: steady pressure and movement over a tight area feels good and encourages you to move it afterwards. A roller head spreads the gel without using your hands, which makes the habit easier to keep.

Use it sensibly

Try a small patch first and keep the gel away from eyes and broken skin. Pain that is severe, follows an injury, or lasts more than a couple of weeks needs a doctor or physiotherapist, whatever is in the tube.

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