I came across this recipe in an old Weekly hints book, which says it is a very successful common folk remedy.
Put 1½ cups whisky and a 40g packet of chillis in a jar. Seal 48 hours, strain and discard chillies. Put 3 drops of the mixture in your first cup of tea each day. This tincture can also be made with brandy or vodka, and can be painted onto a sore joint, too.