Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
Udder Cream Uddermint Gains Popularity as Human Remedy for Joint Pain and Arthritis
Originally formulated as a veterinary treatment to soothe dairy cow udders, Uddermint, an udder cream, is experiencing a surge in popularity among humans. Individuals seeking relief from various ailments, notably arthritis and joint pain, are reporting that this peppermint oil-based cream alleviates their discomfort.
From Farm to Human Use: The Uddermint Story
This cream, containing concentrated peppermint oil, has traditionally been employed by farmers to treat mastitis in cattle—a condition characterized by sore and inflamed udders due to minor infections. However, the manufacturers have recently noted a significant increase in sales, attributed to anecdotal evidence circulating about its benefits for humans suffering from conditions like arthritis and muscle tension.
Online users have lauded Uddermint as a “wonder cream” and a “magic potion,” claiming it effectively addresses muscle stiffness, tendonitis, and joint discomfort. Adding to the product’s burgeoning reputation, Canadian singer Shania Twain reportedly praised a similar udder cream, Bag Balm, for its skin-softening properties when applied to the face.
Expert Opinions on Uddermint for Human Ailments
Despite the growing user enthusiasm, the use of Uddermint for human conditions has elicited divided opinions among medical professionals.
Potential Benefits of Peppermint Oil
Dr. Wendy Holden, a rheumatologist and medical advisor for Arthritis Action, acknowledges emerging research suggesting that mint oil, Uddermint’s primary component, could offer therapeutic benefits.
“While extensive human trials are lacking to definitively ascertain its efficacy, a small-scale study involving 20 individuals with knee osteoarthritis indicated that menthol, when applied topically to arthritic joints, provided greater pain reduction compared to a placebo,” she stated.
Osteoarthritis, affecting approximately 10 million people in the UK, involves the breakdown of protective cartilage in joints, predominantly in the hips and knees, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted movement.
Limited treatment options beyond over-the-counter pain relievers exist for this widespread condition.
Uddermint, containing concentrated peppermint oil, is traditionally used for mastitis in cattle.
Dr. Holden suggests the increasing interest in alternative treatments like Uddermint reflects a broader struggle among individuals to manage their pain effectively within the current healthcare system.
“Many osteoarthritis sufferers endure persistent pain, sleep disturbances, and low mood,” she explained. “Conventional osteoarthritis medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, are often unsuitable for prolonged use due to potential side effects. Consequently, there’s a significant unmet need for safe, effective, and well-tolerated treatments.”
Concerns and Cautions from Experts
Conversely, other experts strongly advise against utilizing udder cream for human use.
Professor Claire Anderson, President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, cautions: “Although Uddermint may be effective for cows, it is not authorized for human application, and limited scientific evidence supports the notion that peppermint oil effectively alleviates joint pain in humans.”
“Employing products designed for animals can pose risks. Self-treating with non-approved substances might result in adverse reactions,” Professor Anderson added.
“For individuals experiencing pain or inflammation, consulting a pharmacist is advisable. Pharmacists can recommend safe, evidence-based treatments, such as ibuprofen gels or pain relief tablets like paracetamol.”
Uddermint’s Role in Veterinary Care and Human Interest
In veterinary practice, standard mastitis treatments for cows typically encompass antibiotics alongside enhanced hygiene protocols, such as cleaning and sanitizing the cows’ teats.
Amid efforts to curb antibiotic usage in agriculture—driven by concerns about antibiotic resistance—farmers have explored alternative remedies, including Uddermint, produced by a Worcestershire-based family business.
Sales of Uddermint have increased due to positive user testimonials.
Product information indicates that Uddermint contains 35 percent pure mint oil and is particularly beneficial “at calving time” for “soothing and softening swollen udders.”
Peter Teisen, director at Uddermint, clarified: “We explicitly state that it is not a medicine or a licensed drug for either humans or animals.”
“Essentially, it’s a hand cream with pure mint oil. We have been selling it for three decades. Farmers gradually recognized its beneficial effects on their own aches and pains and began using it personally,” Mr. Teisen explained.
Sales have escalated recently, fueled by user-shared positive experiences. Mr. Teisen noted: “We are aware of Uddermint’s increasing appeal among humans. Despite minimal advertising, individuals with diverse conditions report using it. Its popularity has grown remarkably.”
Wider Trend and Potential Concerns
The Uddermint phenomenon reflects a broader trend of patients resorting to veterinary medications for self-treatment, a practice that concerns medical professionals.
A study published in “Toxics” last year documented thousands of reports of severe reactions linked to the “misuse” of animal-intended drugs.
In extreme instances, painkiller addiction has driven individuals to seek potent opioid medications or tranquilizers designed for animals, sometimes with fatal consequences.
Uddermint’s product information acknowledges potential adverse reactions, stating it may cause “an allergic skin reaction” or “irritation.” Dr. Holden elaborates: “Menthol is typically diluted in a carrier oil to mitigate side effects, but some individuals may experience a cooling or burning sensation on the skin, which is usually temporary. Allergic reactions to menthol are also possible.”
Singer Shania Twain reportedly uses udder cream Bag Balm on her face.
“Generally, while humans and animals share biological similarities, medications formulated for animals should not be substituted for human treatments,” Dr. Holden emphasized.
Uddermint, available in 600ml bottles, is marketed as an animal product and sold online through retailers like Tesco and Amazon for £23.99. Numerous internet users have expressed positive testimonials.
One back pain sufferer commented online: “Uddermint was the only thing that enabled me to regain mobility. I highly recommend it, despite its potent aroma.”
Another user wrote: “I experience painful muscle tension in my back, neck, and shoulders. It provides rapid and effective relief from muscle tightness.”
Others have acclaimed it as “amazing” for tendonitis, joint pain, and arthritis. Reviews on eBay echo this sentiment, with some users describing it as a “magic healing potion.”
One individual recounted being recommended Uddermint by a farmer, adding: “I apply it to my shoulder and any arthritic joint. It aids in sleep. I might smell strongly of peppermint, but I can tolerate that.”