Biofreeze Safety

Biofreeze is a naturally based topical product used to temporarily relieve minor muscle and joint pain. It comes in the form of a gel, spray and roll-on. Some of Biofreeze's ingredients can cause irritation and should be handled with care, according to the manufacturer's website.

Ingredients

• Biofreeze's active ingredient is menthol. It also contains an extract from the South American holly shrub, Ilex paraguariensis. The spray contains a blend of other botanicals long used for their healing and soothing properties, including arnica, calendula, and chamomile.

How It Works

• Unlike other topical rubs for muscle and joint pain, Biofreeze cools instead of heats. Called cryotherapy, it works on the premise that cold transmits signals to the brain quicker than pain or warmth, so the brain is tricked into paying attention to the cold instead of the pain. Since Biofreeze doesn't cool with actual ice, the painful area still receives blood flow, which speeds healing. Because Biofreeze is topical, it will not cause a reaction with any medications you take.

Cautions

• Always wash your hands after using Biofreeze and before touching your face or eyes, since eyes are especially sensitive to menthol., according to the Drugs.com website. Never use a heating pad with Biofreeze because it could cause your skin to blister, and never bandage skin covered with Biofreeze. Pregnant women should not use Biofreeze before consulting a physician.

Poison Information

• Keep Biofreeze away from children and animals. If a child swallows a little Biofreeze, induce vomiting and offer a glass of buttermilk to help lessen stomach irritation. For a larger amount, call the Poison Control Center. Call your veterinarian if a pet ingests Biofreeze.

Where to Get Biofreeze

• Biofreeze is only available through medical professionals, but a prescription is not required.