Knee pain has become one of the most common complaints among adults, especially after the age of 40. It can appear suddenly after an injury, or develop slowly over time as cartilage wears down. In either case, the discomfort can be frustrating, interrupting daily activities, disturbing sleep, and affecting emotional well-being. When every step reminds you that something is wrong, life becomes more limited.
There are countless pharmacy creams, anti-inflammatory medications, and painkillers available, and most promise quick relief. However, many people find that the results are short-lived. Once the effect wears off, the throbbing, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty bending the knee return again. Some treatments are expensive, and not everyone wants to rely on chemicals long-term.

Because of this, traditional home remedies have grown in popularity once more. They are inexpensive, simple to prepare, and based on ingredients that support the body naturally. Over the years, people have experimented with many combinations, and some of them truly work when used properly.
In this article, you will learn about a homemade cream that has helped many people reduce swelling, soothe pain, and improve knee mobility. Surprisingly, it requires only four ingredients — glycerin, ammonia, iodine, and pig bile.
My Personal Experience With Knee Pain
For a long time, knee pain left an unpleasant mark on my daily life. Walking downhill was nearly impossible. Bending the knee felt like torture. Some days I could feel warmth and swelling around the joint, and it was painful even at rest. I tried different gels, oral pills, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory sprays, but nothing offered lasting relief.
Eventually, a trusted acquaintance recommended a homemade cream that had been used generations ago. At first, I doubted it — after all, how often does something simple outperform modern products? But desperation made me curious. I prepared it, applied it as instructed, and to my surprise, the results were noticeable within days.
Because of how well it worked for me, I decided to share the recipe. Someone else may be going through the same frustration, and if this remedy brings relief, then the information will not be wasted.
Why the Knee Hurts So Often
The knee is the largest joint in the human body. With every step, it absorbs force, stabilizes weight, and bends repeatedly. Aging reduces lubrication in the joint, cartilage thins, and ligaments weaken. Add old injuries, overweight, long hours of sitting, or sudden overuse — and pain becomes unavoidable.
Common causes include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Arthritis
- Radiculitis
- Osteochondrosis
- Meniscus problems
- Inflammation due to cold weather
- Old trauma “reactivated”
As cartilage deteriorates, bones may rub together, leading to swelling, stiffness, and sharp pain.
The Four Ingredients and Why They Work Together
This homemade cream consists of:
- Glycerin — moisturizes tissues and supports circulation.
- Ammonia — helps reduce inflammation and dissolves built-up deposits.
- Iodine — warms the skin surface, increases blood flow, and supports healing.
- Pig bile — a traditional ingredient, long used for joint inflammation and swelling.
Together, these ingredients create a warming effect that relaxes muscles, supports circulation, and softens hardened tissues around the knee.
How to Prepare the Cream
To make this remedy at home:
- Take equal parts glycerin, ammonia, iodine, and pig bile (1:1:1:1).
- Pour them into a glass container.
- Mix thoroughly until they form a uniform liquid-cream texture.
That’s it — the mixture is ready.
How to Apply the Mixture Correctly
- Soak a cloth or cotton pad in the prepared mixture.
- Place it directly on the painful knee.
- Cover the area with plastic film to trap heat.
- Wrap the knee with a warm wool scarf or cloth.
- Leave overnight while you sleep.
During treatment, you will feel warmth, and later a slight burning sensation. This reaction is completely normal — it means circulation is increasing and inflammation is calming down.
In the morning:
- Remove the cloth
- Wipe the skin with a damp towel
- Some redness is expected, but there should be no burns
Repeat this procedure for four consecutive nights. For most people, noticeable improvement appears after the third application.
Additional Traditional Recipe Option
There is another simple combination that can also help soothe discomfort in joints:
- 50 g camphor spirit
- 50 g mustard powder
- 50 ml alcohol
- 3 egg whites
Mix the alcohol and camphor spirit first. Add mustard powder. Beat the egg whites separately until chilled, then blend everything together. Store in the refrigerator and apply before sleep, wrapping the knee warmly afterward. This works especially well against swelling and stiffness.
What to Expect After Treatment
People often report:
- Reduced swelling
- Less stiffness when walking
- Easier bending of the knee
- Improved sleep due to less pain
- A lighter, more flexible sensation
Remember: four sessions are recommended for full effect.
Movement Is Still the Best Preventative Medicine
Even the best remedy cannot replace:
- Gentle stretching
- Regular walking
- Light strengthening exercises
- Avoiding long sitting periods
Stiffness grows in stillness. Motion is nourishment for the joints.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact a doctor if you experience:
- Severe swelling
- Warm, red skin that worsens
- Persistent fever
- Inability to bear weight
- Chronic numbness or tingling
If you have a major trauma, professional assistance is necessary.
Final Thoughts
Knee pain is not something anyone should accept as part of life. While modern medicine is important, traditional remedies can support healing gently and effectively. Glycerin, ammonia, iodine, and pig bile may sound unusual, but together they create a warm, penetrating effect that relaxes tissues, increases blood flow, and helps the joint move more freely.
If you have tried many things without success, giving this method a chance might finally bring relief — just as it did for me.
Wishing you strong joints, painless steps, and active years ahead.
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Please note: The articles on our website are for informational purposes only and do not replace professional medical advice. If you have serious health concerns, please consult a qualified specialist.

















