I don’t know if it’s getting older, working out, or just sleeping in weird positions because my dogs take over the bed but lately, my muscles have been feeling it. So I made this simple, natural muscle rub to help.

This recipe is super simple and customizable. It melts into the skin, smells amazing, and the essential oils give it that nice, cooling-soothing vibe. Perfect for post-gym days, shoulder tension, or those mysterious “why does my back hurt?” moments.

Whether you just killed it at the gym, cleaned the whole house in one day, or slept like a pretzel this rub is exactly what your muscles need.

Why it works:

Hemp seed oil is rich in omega fatty acids and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm sore muscles and nourish the skin.
Coconut oil keeps the balm smooth and moisturizing perfect for massaging into tight spots.
Beeswax helps thicken the rub and creates a protective barrier on the skin.
Clove essential oil brings a warm, tingly feeling that helps ease deep muscle tension.
Peppermint essential oil cools on contact and boosts circulation ideal for tired legs or neck pain.
Lavender essential oil helps calm both your muscles and your mood.
Eucalyptus essential oil is refreshing and known for relieving aches and improving respiratory flow (bonus if you’re stuffy too).

Muscle Rub Recipe:

Makes about 6 ounces

Ingredients:

1/4 cup hemp seed oil
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tbsp beeswax
10 drops clove essential oil
10 drops peppermint essential oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops eucalyptus essential oil

If you want to get even closer to that classic Tiger Balm® feel, you can add some of the traditional ingredients too. Camphor and menthol are usually the stars. They give that cooling-warming sensation and help relieve pain fast. Clove oil is already in this recipe, but you can also add cajeput oil (similar to eucalyptus) for extra muscle support. Some versions also include peppermint, eucalyptus, or cassia oil. Totally optional, but feel free to play around and make it your own!

Instructions:

1. Melt the Oils and Beeswax

In a double boiler (or a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water), add the hemp seed oil, coconut oil, and beeswax. Keep the heat on medium-low and stir occasionally until everything is fully melted.

2. Cool and Whip

Once it’s melted, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool until it starts to solidify like a thick balm. Then whip it up using a fork or hand mixer until the texture turns light and fluffy.

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3. Add Essential Oils

Add in your essential oils and give it one last mix to evenly distribute them.

4. Transfer to a Jar

Scoop the whipped muscle rub into a clean glass jar with a lid. This helps keep it fresh and easy to use. Store it in a cool, dry place.

To Use

Massage a small amount anywhere you’re feeling tension, soreness, or tightness. Shoulders, back, neck, legs wherever it hurts.

Notes

Essential oil that are great for muscles include peppermint, wintergreen, eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, turmeric, black pepper. Play around and find a blend that works well for you!
You can use any carrier oil, I just like hemp seed oil. You can also use an infused oil.

This rub has become a staple in my DIY kit. I keep a jar by the bed It smells spa-like and feels like instant relief. Let me know if you make it and if you come up with your own blend that you love!

Muscle Rub

Print Recipe

This makes around 6 ounces and is a soothing homemade muscle rub made with nourishing oils and essential oils perfect for sore muscles, tension, and post-workout relief.

Ingredients

1/4 cup Hemp seed oil
1/4 cup Coconut oil
1 tbs Beeswax
10 drops Clove essential oil
10 drops Peppermint essential oil
10 drops Lavender essential oil
10 drops Eucalyptus essential oil

Instructions

Add the hemp seed oil, beeswax, and coconut oil in a glass bowl and melt in a double broiler on medium low heat.
Once melted, remove and allow cool until it is solid. Whip it up until it is light and fluffy.
Then, add in your drops of essential oils and mix one more time.
To Use: Rub anywhere you are feeling muscle pain.

Notes

Essential oil that are great for muscles include peppermint, wintergreen, eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, turmeric, black pepper. Play around and find a blend that works well for you!
You can use any carrier oil, I just like hemp seed oil. You can also use an infused oil.

Homemade Muscle Rub for Stiff, Tired Muscles (Copycat Tiger Balm)

Why it works:

Muscle Rub Recipe:

Ingredients: