Using Essential Oils for Pain Relief

The best essential oils for pain relief depends on the type of pain and the result you want. The following list shows the effects of various essential oils:

For a numbing effect:

• Clove
• Frankincense
• German chamomile
• Helichrysum
• Lavender
• Lemongrass

To reduce swelling:

• German chamomile 
• Geranium
• Helichrysum
• Juniper
• Lavender
• Marjoram
• Myrrh
• Rose
• Tea tree

For a heating effect:

• Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis)
  
• Bay rum (pimento)
• Black pepper
• Cinnamon
• Clove
• Ginger
• Peppermint
• Thyme

To relax and sedate:

• Clary sage
• Helichrysum
• Lavender
• Lemon
• Lemon eucalyptus
• Lemon verbena
• Marjoram
• Melissa
• Myrtle
• Petitgrain
• Roman chamomile

Source: Essential Oils & Aromatherapy for Dummies

Other essential oils with pain-relieving qualities include anise, coriander, eucalyptus, niaouli, nutmeg, rosemary, sage, and wintergreen.

Blend your chosen essential oils with an aromatherapy carrier oil. Rub a little of the blend into the painful area.

Click here for studies about essential oils for pain.

Aromatherapy for Pain Relief

For arthritis, back pain, and general muscle pain:

• 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil
  
• 6 drops wintergreen essential oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 2 tablespoons carrier oil

Massage a little of the blend into the affected area.

Source: Healing with Aromatherapy

The book also suggests the following blend to reduce heat and inflammation:

• 4 drops lavender essential oil
• 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 2 cups apple cider vinegar

Soak the affected area for 20 minutes (you can use a compress).

Other Ways to Use Essential Oils for Pain

After-exercise stiffness:

Add up to 5 drops of one of these essential oils (diluted in 1 teaspoon carrier oil) to a warm/hot bath: eucalyptus, German chamomile, juniper, lemongrass, or marjoram.

Sprains, strains, and swollen joints:

Add up to 8 drops of essential oil to 4 teaspoons of carrier oil. Gently massage the blend around and above the injury. Use German or Roman chamomile, cypress, frankincense, juniper, lavender, marjoram, or rosemary. Another option is to make a cold compress using 4 drops of essential oil, and apply the compress to the affected area.

Also see these articles for more about using essential oils for specific types of pain:

• Arthritis relief
• Gout pain relief
  
• Migraine relief
• Nerve pain relief
• Tension headache relief

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