Overview

• ÖKO-TEST analyzed 20 over-the-counter pain salves and gels with a pharmaceutical chemist’s review of efficacy studies and lab tests for contaminants such as MOAH, allergenic fragrances, parabens and synthetic polymers.
• Five formulations containing Ibuprofen, Piroxicam or Felbinac achieved “Sehr gut” ratings for delivering significant acute pain relief with minimal systemic side effects.
• Four Diclofenac-based products were rated only “befriedigend” due to documented wastewater contamination that harms water plants, algae and fish.
• Eight products failed the assessment—six with Campher, one with Salicylsäure and one with Arnika—mostly due to unproven efficacy or the presence of carcinogenic or mutagenic MOAH.
• Consumers are advised to wipe off residual salve with a paper towel and dispose of the towel in residual waste rather than rinsing it down the drain to protect aquatic ecosystems.