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What are counterirritants?

A counterirritant is a substance which is applied externally. The substance causes an irritation or a mild inflammation on the skin to help relieve muscle and joint pain. This is done by reducing inflammation in deeper adjacent structures1.

Counterirritants are most often used to relieve aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with the following conditions:

  • Simple backache
  • Lumbago
  • Strains and sprains
  • Arthritis1

Ingredients such as menthol, methyl salicylate and camphor are called counterirritants because they produce a heating or cooling irritation where applied to help relieve pain2.  A number of RUB·A535™ products are counterirritants.  In addition to counterirritants, RUB·A535™ is proud to offer wraps, patches and Arnica offerings to suit your pain needs and preferences.

Sources
1.Health Canada: http://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/atReq.do?atid=counter, retrieved April 5, 2014
2. http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/counterirritants