★★★★★
That was 7 months ago, and after just having made a reply to an EC member with varicose veins last night, I decided to call him to find out if the ML had helped at all since I had no previous feedback on ML for varicose veins. At first he said he didn't know if it had helped or not because he had run out of ML after applying it for about one month and had not made any more. I asked him if he noticed any pain relief while he was using it since he had previously told me his legs were quite painful, and he said, yes, he did notice pain relief. So I asked him how long the pain relief lasted after he stopped using ML and he said, it hasn't come back. That's over 6 month's of being pain free! I was excited with his results, but he was not.
I asked him why he didn't let me know about his great results and he told me because I wasn't sure that it was because of the ML or something else. I then asked him if he had used anything else that was new during the period when he was using ML and he thought about it for quite awhile before saying, no, he hadn't used anything else.
I reminded him that the nature of untreated varicose veins is that they just continue to worsen. I asked him if he thought the pain went away on its own? He said no, I guess it was the melatonin lotion. I suggested that he make a new batch and continue using it since it appeared to be keeping him pain free. He agreed and said he would, but he wasn't even a bit excited about his results.
I'm going to go ahead and call this another win for ML, but there is no science that I am aware of to support that melatonin can help varicose veins and this one instance only shows that it can potentially relieve the pain caused by varicose veins, but given that I have heard how bad that pain can be, I think my friends experience is important and possibly helpful for many others with varicose veins.
I also feel that the fact that the pain did not come back immediately after stopping ML applications and has still not come back after at least 6 months of no ML, suggests to me that there were some potential reparative effects going on in my friends veins? I asked him if he didn't think it was significant that he had had no more pain in his legs for the past 6 months since previously it had been pain everyday to varying degrees? He had to think about it for quite awhile and he finally grudgingly agreed that 6 months of no pain was very significant. I was pretty dumfounded by his responses, but ML appears to be useful for pain caused by varicose veins!
Art
Back Pain Relief
I forgot to mention that the shoulder pain and itching can be caused by nerve issues that often times originate at the spine and melatonin helps with nerve repair. I believe it is called Notalgia Paresthetica (NP) and melatonin has shown potential to help, as you have seen!
Art
Back Pain Relief
Yes, I realized it was someone else that I was thinking of who had breast cancer, after I came across our conversation after I had replied to you.
That is a very useful group of supplements you are working with and it looks like you have done your homework!
Wow, that is a lot you are dealing with!
It's been awhile since I replied to you and I was wondering how you were doing.
As far as the peripheral neuropathy pain, melatonin lotion should help for that too. It also has nerve reparative effects with longer term daily use. If you read the original ML article and replies you are already aware of some of its many uses. A recent finding in a friend is that topically applied over the heart area, it helped calm his pounding heart arrythmia and allows him to go right to sleep. within about 15 minutes. Topically applied like that, it accumulates in the stratum corneum and is released over an approximate 24 hour period into the blood. Yes, it goes systemic when topically applied. Melatonin has also shown benefit for stroke recovery. The science is very limited (animal studies), but melatonin and Apigenin may also be helpful with seizures.
It may also be useful for the breast cancer as discussed here :
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12133437/
Here is a very important quote from the link that should definitely interest you:
' MLT produced by the pineal gland activates the sleep-wake cycle and exhibits a broad range of other activities, including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-metastatic, antiproliferative, antineoplastic, antiestrogenic, and anticarcinogenic effects. Indeed, there is a significant amount of data from clinical and laboratory trials that show MLT can exhibit anticarcinogenic activity against cancer, including apoptosis, oncostatic, antiproliferative, and antineoplastic properties. MLT inhibits initiation, progression, and metastasis in cancer. It is an important medication against cancer because it may trigger several anticancer mechanisms in breast cancer. The peculiar feature of MLT is the fact that it prevents entrance of cancer cells into the circulatory system and forbids them from spreading in the distant regions. '
As far as SIBO, 5 of the best supplements I am aware of are garlic extract, berberine, oregano oil soft gels, probiotics and digestive enzymes that also contain betaine HCI.
Balance issues can be a lot of different things, but one simple one you can easily test is the Epley Maneuver as discussed here to realign the ear crystals :
https://youtu.be/2NmXXPZFHnc?si=Vbtlm8ayeUjHAzrc
When you say frequency generator, are you referring to a Scenar Therapy device? I have used it, if that is what you are referring to, but it requires a lot of time and effort and it isn't cheap so I don't usually recommend it.
To help with focus, methylene blue is sometimes helpful in sharpening that up. It may have potential for gut microbiome issues, but the science isn't really there.
The pain and itching are ML regulars. It is also helpful for atopic dermatitis. Quite useful for neck pain and other spinal issues as melatonin has spinal reparative qualities including beneficial effect on spinal discs. shoulder pain sometimes originates in the neck area of the spine and if applying the ML to the neck relieves the shoulder pain, that will be a huge clue. Melatonin has also shown to cross the blood brain barrier (BBB) and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. These are two very brain damaging components in many neurodegenerative diseases, so knocking them down is very important. In some cases melatonin has helped improve circulation in the hands and feet which may be helpful for cold feet, but low iron/anemia is a common cause of cold feet, but your doctor says that is not your problem. I don't have any experience with it yet, but melatonin has shown some benefit with certain vascular issues. Melatonin has shown some benefit with age related macular degeneration. I use melatonin gel instead of lotion as I am able to apply it on my face closer to my eyes without irritation. The gel has less other ingredient and is made the same way as the ML, just substituting aloe vera gel for the lotion in the original mix.
The astaxanthin you are taking is a very useful supplement!
If you decide to try anything that I mentioned above, because of your multiple health issues, you will need to get approval and supervision from your doctor first in order to be safe!
I tried to answer everything you mentioned, but I'm sure I missed things. Good luck and keep us posted on how your recovery goes!
Art
Back Pain Relief
2. Currently taking Astaxanthin, Vitamin D-3 & K2, DIM, Zinc Bis-Glycinate, Gamma E mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols, Selenium, R-ALA, Milk Thistle, Trans Resveratrol and 6 bitter apricot kernels. Mind you, I have had to get off my supplements 2 or 3 times because my doctor said my liver enzymes were very high, which they never had been before. Finally figured out that it was probably the creosote and maybe the serrapeptase that were causing liver enzymes to elevate because they came back down. I had just started taking those recently but was not taking liver supplements like the Milk Thistle. I have changed my regimen several times but the one thing that has been consistent throughout is that I use my frequency generator every night with scans and also different frequencies during the day like detox. I also have done nebulized colloidal silver, I have 2 ozone generators but I'm on and off on that and I use red light therapy. I also have a vibration board and Chi machine but also I forget or get lazy. I have a lot of trouble staying focused and I have no help.
4. I had been having itching (middle of back) and pain in my left shoulder blade but no one, Oncologist, general practitioner, and I had 2 CT scans done, could tell me what it was. When I started applying the melatonin lotion the pain and itching subsided drastically. I also apply it pretty much to all my body, legs because I have bad vericose veins which I have had all my life and had neuropathy so bad around 10 years ago that I had couldn't even wear any clothes, went to the ER twice within 5 days and they couldn't do anything. Turns out I had disc problems and had several MRI's, won't get into that fiacso, and the neurologist ended up telling me I had been having mini seizures for over 10 years. Fast forward to 2020 when, long story but we ended up moving out in the middle of nowhere Texas, away from all our family and I down and couldn't undertand how or why. Went to the doctor, and had an MRI and he yelled at me and asked if I smoke. Well no, and he said I have microvascular brain disease (white brain matter) and have been having mini strokes for the last 10 years. So that makes it over 20 years I have been having seizures or strokes. So which is it, seizures or strokes? No one will confirm, and I have asked. I also have Thalassemia A minor. which I found out after my first breast cancer full body scan in 2021. Would've been nice to have known that when I was having children. OK, that's my brain and my legs, I also have the degenerative back also found out in 2021 and arthritis in the neck and the idiot oncologist, who I refuse to see anymore, took 4 lymph nodes out of my left arm even though I told him not to and they tested 4 times and said they were not "involved". So I just slather, lightly, the melatonin lotion every night and sometimes when I remember in the mornings.
5. I do not know how bad the microvascular brain disease is because the first doctor yelled at me which I took as it's pretty bad, and another doctor told me that everybody has mini strokes. I assume it's hereditary because my aunt told me my grandmother passed with dementia and my uncle found out he had microvascular brain disease the same time I did and he passed a few months later, of course he was older than me and an alcoholic.
6. Yes, from my research because my hematologist won't tell me more, is that it is manageable but I do get anemia and cold feet every so often but doctor said I do not have anemia.
My balance is very bad but I do not know what the reason is because no doctor knows. When I was using DMSO consistently on my vericose veins, I did notice they were diminishing and then winter came, our OLD house is very cold, and I quit using it. I have used DMSO as a mouth rinse because I also have a few bad teeth that a dental school really messed me us but red light therapy works really well but unfortunately my device broke and I do not have the money to buy a new one. COVID really drained us both financially and physically. I did try hydrogen peroxide protocol, The One Minute Cure by Madison Cavanaugh but halfway through our refrigerator broke :( BUT my blood pressure was normal for awhile!!!! Need to do that again but I forget and it's doesn't taste very appealing.
I was taking liposomal vitamin C several times a day which I make my own; melatonin 180 mg, L-Theanine 500 mg and niacin (I forget how much) and CBD/CBG/CBN at night but again, that is so much to keep up with and I forget. I did try Borax, Methylene Blue, Lugols Iodine and so many other things, not all at the same time and I still have most of the supplements in case I get to thinking or learn something new that motivates me to take them. Sorry it is so long. I'm sure I am missing some things, oh and I do have SIBO and H Pylori which I got so sick after having a colonoscopy, I kid you not, right after I left the hospital was so sick and they found out I have H Pylori and SIBO. I refuse to take their pills but I am going to try making the SIBO yogurt by Dr. Davis. I have taken and made my own Kefir, kombucha and and microgreens/sprouts in the past but our house is so cold in winter and hot in the summer and very dusty that it doesn't survive for long. And again, money is tight, so I can't afford to keep buying the grains all the time which are hard to find in my part of the world. I also use DMSO in my eyes and now I can't see with my contacts and use my glasses only for reading when I have to. I also have minor macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts but very minor and have not changed for the past 20 years or so, because I keep records. So I must be doing something right. Have been doing natural remedies for over 20 years. I also have a portable FIR sauna that I use when I remember. Luckily I had acquired/bought most of the big/more expensive items before I got cancer and so sick but our house is not grounded so it's hard to use the red light therapy because they told me it is not adviseable to use it ungrounded. And we only have 1 or 2 outlets per room. But I am still alive! Thank God. I do believe he was guiding me to acquire the expensive items before we went broke.
New Research
★★★★★
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00018-025-05877-5
Here is an important quote from the link :
' This study demonstrated that AOPP triggered oxidative stress, exacerbated mitochondrial injury, and increased NP cell apoptosis. Additionally, melatonin enhanced mitochondrial function and protected NP cells from oxidative injury. Further studies demonstrated that melatonin enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis and modulated mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy via the Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorγcoactivator 1α (PGC-1α) signaling pathway, maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and thereby decreasing excessive apoptosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. A PGC-1α inhibitor lessened melatonin's effect on the mitochondrial quality system, weakening its protective function in NP cells against oxidative stress. Furthermore, in vivo experiments confirmed that melatonin slowed the progression of IVDD. These findings provide a theoretical basis for treating IVDD by targeting mitochondrial dysfunction and modulating the mitochondrial quality control system. Melatonin could be an effective treatment for IVDD. '
These effects suggest that melatonin lotion (ML) may have synergy with the Hyaluronic Acid / Stopain remedy for degenerative disc disease (DDD) as discussed here :
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/ddd-art-solbrig.html
Art
Alleviates Nerve and Muscular Issues
I use bulk powder to make melatonin lotion (ML). The capsules contain quite a bit of fillers which is not needed in the ML and in fact can make it harder to make because they may not dissolve in the gin and make the lotion feel gritty instead of smooth.
Art
Alleviates Nerve and Muscular Issues
Back Pain Relief
Melatonin has very poor solubility in castor oil. Not enough melatonin will dissolve in castor oil to offer the benefits discussed in the original article.
Art
Alleviates Nerve and Muscular Issues
If you read past my friends experience with melatonin lotion (ML), you will see the directions on how to make the lotion. Here is a rewrite of how to make it :
Here are simplified instructions for making a three-ounce batch of melatonin lotion without the need for a milligram scale:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Container
- Melatonin powder
- Gin
- Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
- A three ounce jar or bottle
2. Measure Melatonin Powder
- Use a baker's one quarter teaspoon measuring spoon to add 1/4 teaspoon that is level full of melatonin powder into the three or four-ounce jar.
3. Add Gin
- Pour one ounce of gin over the melatonin powder in the jar.
4. Mix Melatonin and Gin
- Secure the lid on the jar and shake it well until the gin appears clear, indicating the melatonin has dissolved.
5. Add Cetaphil Lotion
- Add two ounces of Cetaphil lotion to the jar.
6. Final Mixing
- Replace the lid and shake the jar again until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
7. Usage
- Apply the lotion sparingly up to two times a day or to tolerance. The three-ounce batch should last a long time.
This simplified method uses readily available measuring tools and ensures a consistent, easy-to-make lotion.
Art
Alleviates Nerve and Muscular Issues
Melatonin Lotion Feedback
Back Pain Relief
Q&A
★★★★★
You have a lot going on in terms of your health. I will try to discuss each one. For this reply, I have some questions for you first. I am glad to hear that the tumor is growing so slowly!
1. Have we talked previously on EC? You seem familiar?
2. What supplements are you currently taking?
3. What supplements have you previously tried for the BC?
4. You said melatonin lotion seems to help, but you have so many health issues, could you be more specific about what you think it is helping? It is useful for spinal issues. It does ultimately go systemic so that means it can reach just about anywhere in the body, including the brain. Melatonin can also be beneficial for arthritis in the spine including the neck. Melatonin is also beneficial for degenerative discs of the spine. Melatonin has multiple anticancer effects that have shown to synergize with certain chemo therapeutics as well as radiotherapy while also offering some protective effects against the known negative effects of these two anticancer modalities.
5. Can you give more info on the degenerative brain disease?
6. My understanding is that the body can try and work around Thalassemia minor and it is not usually a problem, but it can be passed on to offspring. Is my understanding correct?
Anything I discuss with you here in this reply post, you will have to get your oncologist's and doctor's approvals and supervision before you test them.
Before we discuss DMSO, I would like to say that I have found that I can dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of melatonin in 1.5 ounces of gin and then top the three ounce bottle off with 1.5 ounce of Cetaphil lotion, making for a significantly higher (double) melatonin concentration lotion. You might want to give consideration to that option before moving toward DMSO. The fact that you are controlling the tumor growth so effectively suggests that you have a very good regimen already and perhaps all that is needed is a slight tweak of that regimen to get to a more optimal response.
DMSO is a more potent solvent for melatonin than gin and will allow you to make a stronger melatonin solution than is possible with gin or other forms of ethanol. Probably about 3/4 teaspoon of melatonin in an ounce of DMSO. DMSO itself, does have some anticancer effects.
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have shown efficacy against breast cancer cells and animal models and DMSO can act as a transdermal penetration enhancer for the AgNPs. It is my experience that it takes a minimum of about a 55% to 60% DMSO + 40% to 45% AgNPs mix to allow the DMSO to have penetrant enhancing qualities without being to irritating to the skin. Lotion would no longer be an option due to the many chemicals contained in lotion that the DMSO would likely transport also.
The following link describes an animal study that tested AgNPs being used on an animal model of BC as well as AgNPs being used with :
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11987408/
Here is a relevant study quote :
' To conclude, AuNPs, AgNPs, AuNPs/TQ, and AgNPs/TQ may hold great promise as potential nanoparticle-based therapies for cancer treatment. Additionally, provides numerous benefits compared to conventional cancer therapies, such as selectivity and minimal side effects. Additionally, AuNPs, AuNPs/TQ, AuNPs/TQ + CP, AgNPs, AgNPs/TQ, or AgNPs/TQ + CP can specifically target tumor tissues, suppress tumor growth, extend the lifespan of tumor-bearing mice, and minimize cytotoxic effects on normal tissues, relative to the administration of free CP alone. More research is needed to understand the mechanisms of these nanoparticle-based therapies in clinical and optimize their use as cancer therapies. '
Since melatonin and AgNPs have different mechanisms of action that may be contrary to each other, side by side use does not seem like an optimal approach. I think a rotation schedule might be a better consideration. Perhaps alternating in one or two week intervals of each. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant and radical scavenger through direct and indirect methods of action. Whereas, a main method of action that AgNPs utilize to work against cancer cells is oxidative stress. If you take melatonin and AgNPs together, the melatonin is likely to work against the oxidative stress caused by the AgNPs.
So these are reasonable measures that you can discuss with your oncologist and doctor to see if they agree and will support you in your efforts toward a safer means of dealing with the BC.
Lastly, regarding arthritis in your neck and elsewhere, I recently posted this borax lotion recipe here :
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/art-solbrig-topical-arthritis-lotion.html
It is worth mentioning that borax/boric acid also have anticancer effects as discussed here:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36940038/
Here is a relevant quote from the link :
' These findings suggest that both SPP and SPT suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cell lines through downregulation of the monopolar spindle-one-binder (MOB1) protein. On the other hand, these molecules increased the expression of PD-L1 protein through their effect on the phosphorylation level of Yes-associated protein (Phospho-YAP (Ser127). In addition, they reduced the concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ and cytolytic effector cytokines such as sFasL, perforin, granzyme A, Granzyme B, and granulysin and increased the expression of PD-1 surface protein in activated T cells. In conclusion, SPP, SPT, and their combination could have growth inhibitory (antiproliferative) effects and could be a potential treatment for breast cancer. However, their stimulatory effects on the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway and their effects on cytokines could ultimately account for the observed repression of the charging of specifically activated effector T cells against breast cancer cells. '
Again the above information will require your oncologist's and doctor's approvals and supervision in order for you to test them.
Art
Back Pain Relief
Q&A
I have not gotten feedback on melatonin lotion (ML) for "carotid stenosis" and in terms of studies there are no human studies yet, only animal studies. while melatonin has shown some benefit in animal studies it is unknown if melatonin will have similar effects in humans with carotid stenosis. Applying melatonin lotion to these areas may have an impact on the thyroid gland, which may or may not be desirable in this case. Here is a link to an animal study using melatonin for carotid arterial stenosis (CAS) :
Here is a relevant study quote from the animal study :
' In a study by Ding et al., the administration of melatonin (10 mg/kg/day, 9 weeks) significantly reduced the intraplaque hemorrhage and plaque rupture incidences in this mouse model with carotid artery plaque [29]. Moreover, mice treated with melatonin had significantly lower flow velocity in the stenotic section of the carotid artery, indicating that melatonin may reduce stenosis in the carotid artery in a plaque-prone context. In another study, only a high dose of melatonin (30 mg/kg/day, 8 weeks) showed a protective effect in mice with carotid artery plaque with reduced vulnerability [30]. However, despite the encouraging results from the above studies, whether melatonin could reverse the plaque formation in the carotid artery is unknown. In terms of molecular mechanism, melatonin administration significantly increased the level of prolyl-4-hydroxylase α1 and collagen in the carotid plaque, whereas the lipid level in the carotid plaque was reduced after the use of melatonin [30]. Additionally, melatonin regulated the macrophage's polarization and mitigated the inflammation in vulnerable carotid artery plaques via the melatonin-RORα-AMPKα-STAT pathway (Figure 1) [29].'
Carotid stenosis is a type of atherosclerosis or narrowing affecting the main arteries on both sides of the neck that carry blood to the brain, face and head.
Previously I wrote about the usefulness of nattokinase for high cholesterol and atherosclerosis here :
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/high-dose-nattokinase-for-atherosclerosis.html
I also wrote about the usefulness of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract (GSPE) for atherosclerosis here :
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/grape-seed-extract-atherosclerosis.html
Considering that atherosclerosis can affect multiple areas of the body simultaneously, going after atherosclerosis in general may be an option worth considering and discussing with your doctor. These are just two potential remedies and there are others on Earth Clinic that are also worth considering. Keep in mind that the atherosclerosis effects of nattokinase in the human study took place over a year at high dose.
Hear is a link to other atherosclerosis remedies on EC :
https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/blocked-arteries-atherosclerosis.html
Art
Q&A
For carotid stenosis where to apply the lotion? Thank you
For the easy mix that I described, each ounce contains approximately 250 mg of melatonin and the breakdown looks somewhat like this :
3 oz. = 750 mg melatonin
2 oz. = 500 mg
1 oz. = 250 mg
3/4 oz. = 187.5 mg
1/2 oz. = 125 mg
1/4 oz. = 62.5 mg
1/8 oz. = 31.25 mg
1/16 oz. = 15.625 mg
You are trying to compare a 20 mg capsule of melatonin to the lotion and they are not really comparable because with oral melatonin only about 3% is bioavailable to the body and it is pretty much done within 5 hours in the body. Whereas topically applied melatonin lotion (ML) or melatonin gel (MG) accumulate in the stratum corneum layers and then release over an approximate 24 hour period, somewhat similar to a patch. ML and MG also reach much higher local tissue levels. As an example of how this makes a significant difference between ML and oral melatonin, a friend who had liver cancer would get pain in the area of his liver that 360 mg of oral melatonin could not touch, but ML applied directly over the liver area could stop the pain very effectively in less than 5 minutes.
I have written a lot about the health value of melatonin on EC and you can find much of it by searching the index. Melatonin is protective of the major organs while be anti inflammatory and a potent scavenger of reactive oxygen species. It helps fight the toxicity of heavy metals as well as helping to protect against ionizing radiation among many other health benefits that it offers to humans, animals and plant life. It also is a cancer fighter through multiple methods of action.
Art
Melatonin Lotion Feedback
Q&A
Q&A
I'm sure Art will reply but, in the meantime, here is the link:
Melatonin Lotion for Pain Relief: Recipe + Success Stories
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/melatonin-lotion.html
Scroll down until you come to the section entitled, “What They Used for Topical Melatonin Lotion (TML)” and you will find the detailed instructions.
Hope that helps.
Q&A
The recipe is in the link I sent you in my last reply. Here is a copy of the recipe :
Simplified Recipe: For Those Without a Milligram Scale
Here are simplified instructions for making a three-ounce batch of melatonin lotion without the need for a milligram scale:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Container
- Melatonin powder
- Gin
- Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
- A four-ounce jar
2. Measure Melatonin Powder
- Use a one quarter measuring teaspoon to add one level full of melatonin powder into the four-ounce jar.
3. Add Gin
- Pour one ounce of gin over the melatonin powder in the jar.
4. Mix Melatonin and Gin
- Secure the lid on the jar and shake it well until the gin appears clear, indicating the melatonin has dissolved.
5. Add Cetaphil Lotion
- Add two ounces of Cetaphil lotion to the jar.
6. Final Mixing
- Replace the lid and shake the jar again until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
7. Usage
- Apply the lotion sparingly as needed. The three-ounce batch should last a long time.
This simplified method uses readily available measuring tools and ensures a consistent, easy-to-make lotion.
Art
Q&A
wanda
Q&A
Q&A
I usually include a link to the article that describes how melatonin lotion (ML) helped friends and exactly how they made it at home, but I guess I forgot this time. Here is that link :
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/melatonin-lotion.html
Please let us know how it works for whatever you plan to use it for.
Art
Q&A
Thanks
Wanda
Broad Benefits
The aloe vera/melatonin mix is what I use for my face because I can apply it near my eyes without the irritation that the melatonin/Cetaphil lotion can cause. Both the aloe vera gel and the melatonin are very good for the skin as discussed in the links below :
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/aloe-vera-for-face
Here is a relevant quote from the article about the qualities of aloe vera gel for skin :
' its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain, swelling, and soreness of wounds or injuries
- it supports the production and release of collagen
- it can speed upTrusted Source wound healing time and limits scarring
- it reducesTrusted Source the healing time of first-degree and second-degree burns
- it is effective in treating fungal and bacterial infectionsTrusted Source
- it has an antioxidant effect that can help repair sun damage and slow down the aging process of the skin
- it protects the skin from the damaging effects of radiation therapy
- it contains 98% water, which helps moisturize, soothe, and hydrate the skin
- it helps to make the skin more flexibleTrusted Source and supple, rather than stiff and leathery
- It has a cooling effect on rashes or sunburns '
As for melatonin, the following link gives relevant details of its benefits for skin :
Here is a relevant quote from the link :
' Melatonin can be synthesized and metabolized in the skin.
Melatonin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, and oncostatic effects in the skin.
Melatonin also exerts immunoregulatory and photoprotective effects in the skin.
Topical application of melatonin could be used to treat skin disorders. '
Here is a link that explains how to make melatonin lotion easily at home :
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/topical-melatonin-pain-relief-success-stories.html
Art
Pain
Given how melatonin lotion is probably released after application, somewhat similarly to a patch after accumulating in the layers of the stratum corneum, it will eventually go to the blood and be dispersed over a period of 24 hours +/-. Given the heightened sensitivity they were experiencing from NSAIDS, I hoped it would deliver just enough melatonin to be of use. I have also gotten feedback that melatonin rubbed on the stomach can help soothe gastro discomfort and apparently the NSAIDS might have been causing such discomfort.
Art
Pain
Pain
Thank you very much for coming back to give feedback on how melatonin lotion(ML) helped relieve your pain after knee replacement surgery, when other pain relievers caused you tolerance problems and anxiety. Feedback is very helpful and appreciated! I'm glad you were able to get good results with ML and you are correct, better late than never!
Art
Pain
★★★★★
★★★★★
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/topical-melatonin-pain-relief-success-stories.html
To update on one of the original 3 testers, Al, who had neck pain in several areas of the neck as well pain that radiated out from the neck to the shoulders and tightness on the right side of the spine.
Al recently informed me that he has not had to use melatonin lotion for any of the problems that he reported in the beginning for about five months now after twice daily sparing applications to his problem areas. I am mentioning this because it tends to confirm the many studies that suggest that melatonin has reparative effects on the spine, muscles and bones.
This morning I received a text message from another friend who has had a myriad of successes using melatonin lotion for many uses such as eczema, neck and spine pain as well as migraine headaches. This is a copy of the text she sent me :
' I wanted to let you know that I found another use for the melatonin rub....drum roll.... Hemorrhoids...it does wonders! '
She went on to say that it offers relief almost immediately and gradually shrinks the hemorrhoids.
This adds further to the list of 40 melatonin lotion benefits that have been reported and brings the list closer to 44 or 45 effective remedies as I wrote about here :
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/topical-melatonin-advantages-pain-management-guide.html
So that is the first two updates for melatonin lotion in 2025!
Art
Thank you for saying so!
Yes, vodka can be used in place of gin, however several people who used vodka after trying the gin first, reported that it took more vodka to get the melatonin to fully dissolve than it took for gin. This resulted in the finished lotion being more watery than the gin mix. If that isn't a problem for you, then yes, vodka will work.
Art
Alleviates Nerve and Muscular Issues
Must the recipe specifically use gin, or can one use vodka in it's place? Thank you for another great post. Happy New Year!
Migraines
My friend who used it for migraines told me she applied it sparingly to the back of her neck, temples and scalp. She said she applied from just below the lowest part of the neck to the top of the neck, which is above the hairline at the base of the skull and then applied it to the scalp and temples. She said her migraines would always last about a week and the ML would have them gone in less than a day with significant symptom reduction while the migraine was active. which she said was the best relief she had ever gotten.
Please let us know how it works for your daughter, whether it is helpful or not.
Art
Migraines
Q&A
Thank you for the clarification, now I understand the sentence!
Art
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Re:leguet
I was searching for the word liqaid as not solid. Been poor in splelling all my life in Holland, emigrated when I was 19.and here in Canada same thing.
By the way my son retired platoon chief at the fire dept. asked me if I ever looked up the word Asperger nice guy. I know I was different.
Thanks ART
Gerrit
Q&A
Here is a relevant quote from the link:
' Melatonin is used to treat sleep difficulties associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There are growing evidence that melatonin could have an effect on other symptoms than sleep, such as anxiety, depression, pain, and gastrointestinal dysfunctions. '
I do not understand the word you used, "league, "so I wasn't quite sure what you meant with that sentence. I have found that 360 mg of oral melatonin could not come close to the pain relieving effect of melatonin lotion (ML).
Art
Q&A
Thanks ART for anwsering my question. I did try borax in a 2/3 liter of leguet 1/4 tsp and filling the cup during the day .My best response is if I can keep the urine PH over 7 measured with a PH meter and keep on a alkaline diet I'm not doing too bad. I'm doing the gluten free diet and baking my own bread and being an asperger to boot witch is I believe 1 1/2 % of the population, very sensetive people VERY sensative to EMF. the main reason I like to go with TM the effect of sleeping better. Even with 150mg oral melatonen it did not help much, many times the orral MT would cramp my fingers espescially if it the surroundings are cool.and that would happen with a lower dose also.
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Thank you for answering the question of, "does melatonin lotion (ML) help rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain" as I wasn't positive whether it did or not as I have never had someone test it for that purpose until now! It worked for OA and PA, but I wasn't sure about RA. Can you tell me how you use it for RA and how it helps in your experience?
To answer your question, yes it will work, but always remember that you have to dissolve the melatonin powder in the gin, before adding the lotion or the finished product will be weak or not effective enough!
I don't mean to try and talk you out of using ML for your RA, but a potentially more effective and less expensive remedy for various forms of arthritis, in my experience, is borax, which has kept my psoriatic arthritis in remission for over 16 years and is a very inexpensive remedy that also offers potential to fend off osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Here is a link to the Earth Clinic (EC) Borax page :
https://www.earthclinic.com/remedies/borax.html
The above EC link gives information on multiple uses for borax as well as dosing information for arthritis and much more!
Until you have completed a test of borax, you can use the ML simultaneously. Studies suggest that melatonin can help arthritis and even offer some joint protective effects, but for me borax was life changing keeping my joints pain free for all of these years. It doesn't work for everyone, but seems to work for the greater majority of people who test it. I gave it the full 3 to 4 months as suggested by Dr. Rex Newnham who originally discovered the use of boron or borax for various forms of arthritis back in the 1960s/1970s. My PA was severe and it took about three months for me to become pain free, but I already felt benefit within the first month.
Good luck with whatever you decide to do and thank you again for the feedback on ML for RA pain relief!
Art
Q&A
due to RA I go tru a litle bottle in no time, I want to make a big batch If I multiply the ingrediens by10 and use immersion stick mixer will that work?
I have A-FIB 24/7 and declined the meds. as I think the body is self regulating.
Have used a maintenace dose of nattokinase for decades and kept the arteries clean, have since changed to 5 caps of 100mg and added 2 caps o 120000 SU d.r. sarrapeptase usully during the nite.
also had in jan. 2018 an BOVINE CATHATER HEART VALVE INSTALLED.
beenfollowing EC posts daily for decates when TED was giving most of the advice.
Too bad that never the blood type is mentioned.
take care
Gerrit at 95
Another poster reported that she was able to use capsules that are equivalent to 750 mg to make the lotion to ameliorate her fibromyalgia pain. Not the best way to do it, but she said it worked for her.
Art
Q&A
★★★★★
I misunderstood your question. The only way I know of to get an accurate measure of 100 mg of melatonin powder is to use a digital milligram scale. The quarter teaspoon that I mentioned in my previous reply will be approximately 750 milligrams so you would need about one eight of that 1/4 teaspoon to get in the area of 100 mg.
I don't think 100 mg of melatonin in the 3 oz. bottle of melatonin lotion would have much effect as it will be a very weak mix.
Art
Q&A
The amount of melatonin to dissolve in 1.5 oz of gin is a one quarter measuring teaspoon that is level full.
Art
Q&A
Back Pain Relief
I made lotion without gin. First of you have to make lotion-you can use all kind oil as coconut oil, olive oil......., and you need put bee wax in it to make lotion. I use big pot with water in it, boil water at same time put glass bottle on it, put all kind oil what you like in it, then you put bee wax in it, last step is put melatonin in it. you have to wait let bee wax melt in the oil, then you have using something to mix it to let melatonin completely melted into lotion. I do not know heat will affect melatonin effecting or not. But I used lotion after I made it that the lotion made me sleepiness. I guess heat did not affect melatonin effecting.
Melatonin Lotion Feedback
I am not Art, But I did melt melatonin with what I made lotion. You can make any kind lotion you want using boiling water. Put glass bottle in the water with something under glass (Provent glass break from very hot heat) all kind oils with bee wax, then put melatonin in it. after bee wax melt, melatonin mostly is melting too. you need using something mix melatonin with lotion. I did not measure how much oil and bee wax I put in and I did not measure how many grams of melatonin I put in. I used my tomato sauce glass bottle that at least is 16 oz bottle. I just put oil first, put bee wax in it as 3/4 bottle already, then put melatonin in it too. after wax melt if I think lotion is too oily, I just put more bee wax. I want strong melatonin lotion, so I put maybe almost 2 table spools of melatonin in, I thought if lotion too strong I will use less, if too weak I cannot use too much lotion on my skin. I tested my lotion after I finished, I did feel sleepiness after for a while.
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Yes, I have used higher dose melatonin for many years. I have not experienced joint pain from taking melatonin, but I have seen reports on the internet that some people with rheumatoid arthritis have. On the other hand, I have seen reports that melatonin does not increase joint pain for people with RA, so that is a bit puzzling to me. I've gone as high as 180 mg, but I am now very likely higher than that amount because I take melatonin orally and topically everyday.
Art
Q&A
Thank you answered my question. I am just wondering that you use high dose of melatonin for a while, did you ever have jointing pain after you take melatonin? I am ask this because I am still think maybe my joint pain caused not by melatonin, because before I do not have any problem for any my joints, after I changed melatonin pills to melatonin gummies. is something in gummies made my joint pain? I stoped melatonin gummies from Saturday night, today is Tuesday noon, I feel a little bit better on my knee pain. I hope after 2 weeks I will be normal.
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In my experience, people have reported on the internet that melatonin can worsen joint pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but on the other hand, I have gotten reports that it helped. As with most medications and supplements for specific health issues, it usually comes down to trial and error. For RA, studies seem to reflect this conundrum also, when it comes to RA and melatonin.
As far as oral melatonin, in my testing, I have not gotten any reports of pain relief of any significance, whereas, melatonin lotion (ML) has resulted in pain relief from many various pain issues as discussed here :
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/topical-melatonin-advantages-pain-management-guide.html
I would also add that that list of 40 has grown to 43.
ML is relatively inexpensive to make and test and doesn't seem to have many of the severe side effects that pain relieving NSAIDS can have as discussed here :
Here is a very relevant quote from the above link :
' Each year, the side effects of long-term NSAID use cause nearly 103, 000 hospitalizations and 16, 500 deaths. More people die each year from NSAIDs-related complications than from AIDS and cervical cancer in the United States.'
Keep in mind that is just for the USA and does not include the rest of the world! By comparison, see how many deaths you can find caused by melatonin each year and I can promise you that the two are not even comparable!
I'm not saying that ML can alleviate every kind of pain, it can't, but it certainly seems worth testing considering its known safety profile, at least for most people. As with anything else used to relieve pain, it will not be agreeable with everyone, but if it is, it offers many other potential health benefits whereas NSAIDS which are also used for pain relief, mainly only help for pain management and not much else.
If you prefer NSAIDS which are readily available and also relatively inexpensive, you might keep the following in mind. Acetaminophen, an NSAID, also known as Tylenol, among other names, is often used for pain reduction and is the number one cause of liver transplants in the USA and the number two cause of liver transplants in the world as discussed here :
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441917/
Here is a relevant quote from the link :
' Acetaminophen toxicity is the second most common cause of liver transplantation worldwide and the most common cause of liver transplantation in the US. It is responsible for 56, 000 emergency department visits, 2, 600 hospitalizations, and 500 deaths per year in the United States. Fifty percent of these are unintentional overdoses. More than 60 million Americans consume acetaminophen on a weekly basis, and many are unaware that it is contained in combined products. '
If melatonin did the same as the above quote about Acetaminophen, it would be banned by the FDA immediately!
To answer your question, ' if oral melatonin taking make my join pain, what about melatonin lotion? can I still use melatonin lotion even I cannot take melatonin orally. '
I would say if oral melatonin causes you pain, then you might not want to consider ML among your pain relieving options.
Art
Q&A
After I used high dose of melatonin for sleep problem for a while, I got joint pain on knees. I thought melatonin supposed to make pain better not cause pain. Then I searched internet, people review said melatonin cause them big deal of pain. website address is "https://www.fightaging.org/archives/2008/10/melantonin-and-hidden-complexity/" people were talking about serious joint pain all over their body caused by melatonin.
My question is if oral melatonin taking make my joint pain, what about melatonin lotion? can I still use melatonin lotion even I cannot take melatonin orally.
Lynn
★★★★★
Recently I was talking with a friend who has ongoing ankle swelling that their doctor is trying to determine the cause of and has narrowed it down to heart or liver, but can't determine a treatment until that cause is pinpointed. I suggested to my friend that they try melatonin lotion on their feet and ankles in the meantime to try and reduce the inflammation, pain and swelling that is making it difficult and painful for them to stand or walk.
After 2.5 days they showed me that their ankle swelling had reduced significantly and one ankle and foot looked almost normal while the other was noticeably reduced using two applications sparingly applied per day. This is the most relief they have gotten for their swollen ankles and feet and my friend is very happy to finally get some relief!
Art
Q&A
Apparently larger amounts of melatonin can be dissolved in fatty acids with shorter length carbon chains. This also means that more melatonin will dissolve in short and medium chain fatty acids such as virgin coconut oil than in long chain fatty acid oils like vegetable oil, olive oil, tallow and lard:
"In order to identify suitable oils for the development of melatonin-NE, melatonin solubility in seven oils was determined. Triglycerides with the shortest fatty acid chains (C4) were better solvents for melatonin, with solubility of approximately 4.5 mg melatonin/g of oil. Triglycerides with the longest fatty acid chains, C18, had the lowest melatonin solubility; 0.23 mg melatonin/g of oil. All other oils displayed a melatonin solubility between those values"
Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0939641120301259
I've also found from the research that you can dissolve much larger amounts of melatonin in DMSO(Dimethylsulfoxide) than you can using water, alcohol or oil. In fact, DMSO is perhaps the perfect vehicle to directly transport any orgainic chemical compound(with a molecular mass of less than 1000) through the skin into the blood.
I've recently been using various individual organic and inorganic chemicals on myself such as sodium thiosulfate, magnesium chloride, methylene blue and borax -- as well as using a drop of essential oil per dose like Thieves oil, Peppermint oil -- dissolved in a teaspoon of DMSO + water for various skin or blood problems. This was a very useful exercise. I had a hard growth or bump under my skin at the back of my neck that I could not dissolve or remove -- it's been there for over 20 years. So every two days I would mix 5 drops of 99% DMSO + 5 drops of water + 3 drops of 1% Methylene Blue(MB) and just dab it profusely around the small hard bump on my neck. Eventually, after about a month or so, the bump reduced in size, went flat and then completely disappeared. Interestingly, the blue stain on the back of my neck from the DMSO + MB always disappeared within about 30 mins.
Q&A
I never tested coconut oil for melatonin lotion because some people don't like the smell, but if you try it, please let us know how it works for you as people who like coconut oil will definitely want to know how it works.
Art
Q&A
Regarding the melatonin recipe you gave - would using a coconut oil be an alternative to the lotion? Thank you!
I chose gin as the solvent for the melatonin powder because it is much safer than using something like isopropyl alcohol or DMSO, it is relatively inexpensive and it is easy to find and purchase. Gin can be consumed, but isopropyl alcohol is poisonous to consume. My intent was to make it easy for people to test and use melatonin lotion.
In order to be most effective, the melatonin has to be dissolved before adding the lotion. If you just add the melatonin powder to the lotion without dissolving it first, the lotion will be significantly weaker or possibly be ineffective.
There are other solvents that can be used, but they are harder to acquire and generally cost more to buy. Your best bet, if you don't want to use gin is to ask a compounding pharmacy to make up a melatonin lotion for you using a non gin solvent, but keep in mind that most solvents have the potential for side effects. As an example, another solvent that can dissolve melatonin is dimethyl formamide (DMF) which is readily absorbed through the skin and is thought to have the potential to cause liver damage. With the the lotion made with gin, the gin evaporates fairly quickly once applied to the skin.
Another solvent that can dissolve melatonin powder is DMSO, but DMSO can carry many molecules through the skin. I think there are many molecules in many lotions that would be unhealthful to carry through the skin into the body in any meaningful amounts.
If you decide to try a compounding pharmacy, please let us know your results.
Art
Back Pain Relief
Could the melatonin recipe be made without the gin? I don't drink alcohol and would prefer not to put in on my body topically. Or is there a substitute product for the gin? Thank you!
Q&A
Thank you very much for your important feedback on melatonin lotion and fibromyalgia! Many people suffer with this disease and your feedback will let many of them know that they have a viable way to get relief! I am very happy that it worked so well for you, Helen!
I'm sorry you can't get the bulk melatonin powder in Canada and have to use 90 capsules just to make one batch! These type of government restrictions are incredible for something that has a better safety profile than almost any prescription medication!
Please keep in mind that many people who have tested melatonin lotion have mentioned that the benefit seemed to modestly increase for the first two or three weeks before leveling off by the third week.
Art
Q&A
This is the recipe that I used which I adjusted down to work with 900mg of melatonin:
900mg melatonin (90-10mg capsules)
1.35 oz (40ml) gin
2.25 oz (66.5ml) lotion
I added the gin to the powder and it did not dissolve completely but it may have if I added more, I just assumed that the other ingredients perhaps did not dissolve in the gin. I then added the lotion and mixed it well. It is a bit grainy in texture but goes on smooth and absorbs great.
Now the good news, it works!!! I have fibromyalgia and I am always getting new pains and some go after a while and some stick around and are so bad I can't sleep. My newest pains were in my neck, shoulder, arm and hand and it was bad. I applied the lotion to my shoulder, neck and arm and when I woke up the next morning after sleeping the whole night! The pain was greatly reduced I couldn't believe it!
I am continuing to use it every night and just a touch during the day if I feel the need but my shoulder is 80% better, my arm and neck are being a bit more stubborn but at least 50% better and my hand is also 80% better. I have applied it to a sore bunion and that is pain free now!
I had started to use the magnesium oil in a spray bottle a while back with minimal help with pain but I continue to use it because I know it's good for me.
I also want to mention that I have tried all the prescriptions for Fibromyalgia non of which worked or worked enough to justify the side effects.
I do also take PEA400 (Palmitoylethanolamide) which has also helped me a fair amount and I would recommend to other Fibromyalgia sufferers.
The excellent results from using the melatonin lotion make me a little emotional because being in constant pain is hard on your spirit and I have finally found some relief and I can't thank you enough for sharing your knowledge with everyone! Thank you Art!
Q&A
In that article I describe how my friends made their melatonin lotion using melatonin in bulk powder form which is supposed to have no fillers. Your capsules have a lot of fillers and it will take 100 capsules to get to 1 gram or 1000 mg. Try and picture how much powder a 100 capsules will generate.
On ebay Canada they sell this bulk melatonin powder product, which looks like what they used :
Art
Q&A
Hi My first ever post. Yay! Art gave a fantastic post on making melatonin topical pain recipe. I only have a bottle of melatonin capsules 10mg. How many capsules would = 1 gram? I am horrible with maths, so I tried but couldn't figure it out myself. Thanks very much earthclinic community for all your advice. 🥰
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Art
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I just want to thank you for always going the extra mile to make it easier for people to understand the information (links, pictures, etc.).
I've learned so much over the years from you and others like you (e.g., Mama to Many) who not only write an informative post, but are considerate while doing so.
Cheers!
Q&A
What I am referring to is a measuring teaspoon that is one fourth of a level full teaspoon that is part of a set that bakers use in baking as illustrated below. They are available at such places as Target, Walmart, markets etc. in the baking section. More specifically, look at the one marked 1/4 tsp (1/4 teaspoon). This is the size I use, filled level full with melatonin powder to make a 3 ounce bottle of melatonin lotion. The directions for making it are in the original article here :
https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/topical-melatonin-pain-relief-success-stories.html
Art
Q&A
What do you mean by a "quarter measuring teaspoon" of melatonin powder? Do you mean a measuring spoon which is a teaspoon measure?
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In the original article I wrote about melatonin lotion, I described how my friends made their melatonin lotion using the bulk powder form of melatonin which has no fillers or additives. On the other hand, capsules and pills have multiple fillers which will not work very well for making the lotion because the fillers are a significant amount of extra powder. You might try following the original recipe which calls for using bulk powder such as this, which appears to be available on ebay Canada :
Art
Q&A
I have an additional question about the melatonin recipe. It calls for 1 gram of melatonin powder. I have purchased a bottle of 90 capsules of 10mg strength melatonin which if I understand correctly is 900mg, 10 capsules short of 1 gram. Am I correct in my math and will it still be strong enough for the pain relief benefits?
(I found a store with 50 ml bottles of gin!! :o) )
Thank you so so much for all the help you have given me!
Helen
Q&A
I believe that based on a human fibromyalgia study utilizing melatonin, that the melatonin lotion(ML) should be useful for fibromyalgia pain.
In addition, also based on a human study, I believe that magnesium chloride spray, generally referred to as "mag oil" may be additive to the ML.
Here is a typical mag oil product on Amazon :
It may be worth trying both individually and together to see which is the best option for you.
Please come back and let us know what your testing results determine.
Art
Q&A
I am hoping this lotion will help with my fibromyalgia pain.
Q&A
Yes, vodka can work, but in my experience it requires more vodka than gin to fully dissolve the melatonin powder, resulting in a more watery lotion. I don't recommend using rubbing alcohol. If you want to use gin, perhaps you can leave your large bottle with a trusted friend to hold for you until needed again and only take enough to make one bottle of lotion at a time.
Art
Q&A
★★★★★
Is it possible to make this with rubbing alcohol or vodka? I ask because I am an alcoholic and the only gin I can get is in a larger bottle and I don't want the temptation of the remainder and I am not sure I would pour out what I don't need. I can get a 50ml bottle of vodka tho and rubbing alcohol is something I have on hand. Thanks for any help!
★★★★★
Item #4 mentions that one of my friends found significant relief for migraine headaches which usually last them about a week and now are over in less than a day. This new study (May, 2024) adds confirmation to the idea that melatonin relieves migraine headaches as discussed here :
https://ijms.sums.ac.ir/article_49688.html
Here is a relevant study quote :
' Our study shows that melatonin was more efficacious than the placebo in the reduction of frequency and duration of migraine attacks. It was equally safe as the placebo and might be effective in the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults. '
Art
Where to Buy: Canada
Thank you very much.
looking forward to try your melatonin lotion for pain. I will post my results.
Where to Buy: Canada
It looks like it might be available on eBay Canada :
Canada is like other countries when it comes to melatonin and is not available over the counter.
Art
Where to Buy: Canada