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The natural balm I've found to be better than Ibuprofen gel for soothing sore muscles
I've been using Espa's essential oil blend for eight years, and it can help ease headaches too.
By Helen Wilson-Beevers, Friday 22 May 2026 17:37 BST
Espa is renowned for its wellness products, from candles and diffusers to moisturisers and face masks. I'm a huge fan of the overnight hydration therapy for its intensive skin-boosting properties. However, my other favourite product offers something different: pain relief.
Living with an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain and inflammation, I've tried numerous remedies. While I take medication and have used Ibuprofen gel in the past, quick relief can be elusive. From ice packs to Epsom salt baths, I've experimented with almost everything. So when Espa's muscle rescue balm launched in 2018, during a particularly bad flare-up, I was eager to try it. Although marketed for tired and achy muscles, I soon discovered it also alleviated my joint pain.
The balm contains an essential oil blend of eucalyptus, clove bud, and peppermint. But what makes it so effective that I'd consider it superior to other topical pain relievers? Read on to find out.
Espa muscle rescue balm
- Size: 70g
- Key ingredients: Cocoa butter, coconut oil, beeswax, essential oil blend of clove bud, eucalyptus, and peppermint
- Why we love it: Soothing, moisturising, refreshing
- Take note: Formula can stick to clothes
The balm comes in a signature Espa bottle with a twist-off lid. Its thick consistency requires some effort to squeeze out, but a small amount goes a long way. The scent—a robust blend of eucalyptus, clove, and peppermint—is immediately noticeable. I enjoy the fragrance; its invigorating nature is both refreshing and reviving. Occasionally, I dab a tiny amount under my nose or on my temples to help ease a headache. However, the potent aroma may not suit everyone.
I typically use it at night as part of a relaxing pre-bed routine. Thanks to cocoa butter and coconut oil, the balm is deeply moisturising, leaving a glossy layer on the skin. My skin feels softened and nourished, adding comfort to tight or achy limbs. Due to its richness, the balm can leave a slight residue that may cause clothes to stick. During the day, I apply it more sparingly. Yet, this lingering quality is why I experience long-lasting relief. Upon application, it delivers an intense, tingling sensation that quickly soothes the raw ache of sore joints. The invigorating scent also has a calming effect, creating a near-sleepy sense of relaxation. This soothing relief helps ease the tiredness after a long walk, workout, or busy day at the office.
The warmth generated by the balm helps dull the impact of pain, and this effect lasts for several hours. In my experience, Espa's muscle rescue balm is even better than Ibuprofen gel for easing aches and providing uplifting comfort.
£32 from Lookfantastic.com (prices may vary)
Is Espa's muscle rescue balm worth it?
Espa's muscle balm is a staple in my routine for pain relief, headaches, and soothing tired muscles. A small amount goes a long way, offering a potent yet moisturising layer of calming skincare. I believe it's well worth the price, especially when on sale. Its essential oil scent provides an invigorating spa-like experience, and the formula is warming and comforting. If you're seeking a multi-tasking product for aches and pains, I highly recommend this natural and luxurious alternative to medicinal options.
How I tested
I've been using Espa's muscle rescue balm for eight years. During this time, I've applied it to sore muscles and joints, and used it for a soothing boost on tired days or after workouts. I've assessed its formula, consistency, and benefits. Specifically, I've looked at key ingredients and their soothing and invigorating properties. I've used the balm after workouts, during joint pain, and on tired days, noting its feel, scent, and lingering effects. I've recorded the immediate impact on my skin and body, along with key benefits.
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
IndyBest tests thousands of products to provide genuine reviews and honest verdicts. Our skincare reviews are based on hands-on testing by beauty experts following specific criteria. We only publish first-hand praise for products tried, tested, and approved by our reviewers. Helen Wilson-Beevers is a beauty journalist with over a decade of experience testing a wide range of skincare products, including brands like Perricone MD, The Inkey List, Laura Mercier, and The Body Shop. As a busy mum in her forties, she seeks skincare solutions that fit into a daily routine. Her autoimmune condition, causing joint pain and inflammation, makes her the ideal candidate for this review. It's a product she swears by.
