Natural Health: Take cayenne pepper to ease back pain 

Plus: natural ways of dealing with teething pains

Pic: iStock

I injured my lower back about a month ago while digging in the garden. I took paracetamol to ease the intense pain, but I’m left with an ongoing dull ache, making any work in the garden almost impossible. I’m 64 and in general good health. What natural treatment could I use?

My go-to treatment for instant musculoskeletal pain relief is an over-the-counter cayenne pepper (often listed as the active ingredient, capsaicin) and menthol anti-inflammatory rub (usually a salve, balm, or gel). Ideally, the preparation will also contain arnica for deep tissue repair.