Voltaren vs. Plant-Based Creams | Natural Joint Relief

If you’ve ever stood in the pharmacy aisle staring at that wall of pain relief creams, you’ve probably seen Voltaren front and center. It’s a popular over-the-counter gel that many people with joint discomfort turn to.

But what if you’re looking for something plant-based, vegan, and safe for daily use? That’s where natural creams step in. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can make the best choice for your body.

What is Voltaren?

Voltaren Gel contains diclofenac sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing the chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.

• Pros: Effective for arthritis pain, widely available, clinically studied.
  

• Cons: Because it’s a drug, it carries warnings about stomach upset, high blood pressure, and potential interactions with other medications. Even though you apply it to your skin, some still gets absorbed into your system.
  

What About Plant-Based Creams?

Plant-based joint relief creams use ingredients like:

• Capsaicin (from chili peppers) → gently warms and encourages circulation.
  

• Menthol (from peppermint) → cooling comfort on sore spots.
  

• Botanical oils and extracts → nourish the skin while supporting mobility.
  

• Pros: No drug side effects, safe for daily use, often vegan, and gentle.
  

• Cons: Results may vary, and they don’t replace prescriptions for severe arthritis.
  

Voltaren vs. Plant-Based Creams

Voltaren                                                                               Plant-Based Creams

Anti-inflammatory drug (diclofenac)                            Natural ingredients (menthol, capsaicin)

Possible GI issues, high BP, drug interactions           Generally minimal, topical only

Short-term arthritis relief                                               Daily support, active lifestyle

Medication-focused                                                       Wellness + natural living

From a Nurse Practitioner’s View

As someone who has cared for many patients with joint pain, I know the decision isn’t just about “what works” — it’s about what fits your life.

Some of my patients don’t want to add another medication to their list. They want something they can use every day without worrying about side effects. That’s why I helped create Ol’Arthur Rapid Relief — a plant-based, fast-absorbing cream made with ingredients like capsaicin and menthol that provide comfort without the risks that come with NSAIDs.

Bottom Line

• Voltaren is effective but comes with drug warnings.
  

• Plant-based creams are a safe, daily option that support mobility naturally.
  

• For many people, the best approach is balance: lifestyle habits (stretching, movement, hydration) paired with a daily topical that fits their wellness values.
  

👉 If you’re curious about a vegan alternative that absorbs fast and works instantly, buy at  Ol’Arthur Rapid Relief

References

1. Deal CL, Schnitzer TJ, Lipstein E, et al. Treatment of arthritis with topical capsaicin: a double-blind trial. Clin Ther. 1991;13(3):383–395. PubMed

2. Mason L, Moore RA, Derry S, Edwards JE, McQuay HJ. Systematic review of topical capsaicin for the treatment of chronic pain. BMJ. 2004;328(7446):991. PMC

3. Bloomer RJ, Canale RE, Blankenship MM, et al. Impact of a topical botanical ointment on pain in adults with self-reported joint pain: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2010;7:34. PMC