When we were in Bali earlier this month, I wanted to buy some of the Salonpas adhesive heat pads. I had read on the BTF that these pads, when applied to troublesome arthritis, rheumatism, lumbago, sciatica areas, where heat can alleviate discomfort.
We went to the Chinese medicine shop next door to the Bintang Supermarket and although they didnt sell Salonpas, they did recommend Koko Cabe (Porous Capsicum plaster). I bought a packet of 10 pieces, each about 50mm x 60mm. The packet cost 6000rp. I tried one piece on my shoulder and boy, did it get hot. I felt like the area was on fire. I left it on for over a day and found when swimming or showering, the heat regenerated. I expected to see a redness once the pad was removed, but no mark whatsoever.
I found the Salonpas (10 pieces, 42mm x 65mm) and Koko Cabe in the Carrefours dept store a few days later, around the same price, approx 6000rp.
In this freezing Melbourne weather compared to the glorious days and nights in Bali, I could be tempted to plaster the pads all over my body!