I have a new respect for chili peppers. Without chili peppers, I would have many more unbearable days. A little dramatic, I know, but honestly, chili peppers have helped me make it through some bad days.

Well, not the chili peppers themselves, but a component of the peppers, capsaicin, helps me to tolerate the pain associated with my arthritis. I remember when I used to smell this stuff on my grandparents and wondering why they would willingly want to smell that way. Little did I understand that when it comes to relieving arthritic pain, you make some sacrifices.

Capsaicin is available in many forms and under many names. I prefer the cream over the gels or lotions. I generally use it when I know I’m not leaving the house or expecting company because the odor is something to get used to. My good friends are used to it by now and expect it if they’re spending any length of time with me (and I know some of them use it themselves!).

The cream is very easy to use. I just rub it over my aching knees, hips and/or back. It is absorbed through the skin and provides relief pretty quickly if used routinely. I have to remember to wash my hands after applying it; one day I forgot and rubbed my eye. To just say it burned is an understatement. My eye was on fire!