“Clinical research has shown that some of these aromatherapy oils can alleviate various ailments in the body, including pain” [1]
So What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils (AKA aromatherapy oils), derive from the bark, fruit, flowers, seeds and leaves, of a broad spectrum of common plants. These oils are then diluted down so that they can be applied topically [1].
Which Essential Oils Are Best For Pain?
There is an enormous selection of wonderful aromatherapy oils on the market, so it is important to know which ones are suitable for your pain. You may like to try out several of them to see which ones you prefer, as the more you like the aroma, the more beneficial they are likely to be. Note: always check that there are no contra-indications to use. The following aromatherapy oils are known to ameliorate pain, including back and shoulder pain:
Peppermint Oil
One of Mother nature’s most powerful painkillers, peppermint oil is frequently used for alleviating pain [1].
Wintergreen Oil
Closely related to peppermint, wintergreen oil boasts similar properties due to its methyl salicylate component. Note: “talk to a doctor if you’re taking blood thinners or other medications, as wintergreen can increase the risk of bleeding” [1].
Eucalyptus Oil
With its well known anti-inflammatory benefits, this aromatherapy favourite can promote an analgesic effect in the joints and muscles. Indeed: “a 2015 clinical review found that eucalyptus oil has promise in treating ailments such as arthritis” [1].
Ginger Oil
Renowned for its anti-inflammatory benefits, a 2016 study showed its positive effect on rheumatoid arthritis patients [1].
Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass can be instrumental in reducing inflammation and pain, although at the present time, only limited research with mice has highlighted its noteworthy anti-inflammatory properties [1].
Lavender Oil
Known as the star of aromatherapy, one clinical review of lavender oil indicates that it: “can help alleviate headaches and muscle pain. Such benefits may transfer to back pain as well” [1].
Roman/German Chamomile Oils
These popular oils are known to help reduce overall inflammation and muscle spasms. Note: do not use if you suffer from a ragweed allergy, as the plants derive from the same family [1].
Sandalwood Oil
The anti-inflammatory properties in sandalwood oil have: “been studied for their similar effects to over-the-counter medications. Reducing inflammation in the back with sandalwood oil could possibly decrease pain, as well” [1].
Rosemary Oil
Boasting clinically proven benefits, rosemary oil has been shown to reduce pain in rheumatic disorders. Moreover: “such anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects may also be helpful for back pain” [1].
Using Essential Oils
“Essential oils may be inhaled in aromatherapy or diluted and applied to your back topically or used in a bath” [1]
Although essential oils are made from natural ingredients, they still need to be treated with caution, just like any other chemicals. To that end, you must ensure that you do not have any contra-indications that could cause serious side-effects or skin irritation.
Topical Application
If you want to massage your back or any other part of your body with essential oil, then the latter must be diluted in a carrier oil. This can be purchased ready made, or mixed at home.
Instructions
“Mix up to 6 drops of your selected oil with 6 teaspoons of a carrier oil, such as jojoba or olive oil. Do a patch test of your diluted oil on a small area of skin. After 24 hours, if no irritation develops, it’s likely you can safely use the oil on a larger area of skin, such as your back” [1].
Apply a liberal amount of the diluted mixture onto your back or other area, gently massaging it into the skin to help absorption. Note: be sure to keep the oil away from your face, as it could get into your eyes or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with well with cold water [1].
Inhalation
If you are suffering from back, or any other form of pain, and/or are experiencing inflammation: inhaling aromatherapy oil via a diffuser can have a very calming de-stressing effect [1].
Instructions
Place a few drops of pure essential oil in an electric diffuser filled with water, and leave it running in your office or home, so you can enjoy the fully benefits. Then, simply add more water or oil to the diffuser as and when required [5]. Diffusers are readily available from Amazon and Ebay.
Reference
[1]. Cherney, Kristeen (2019). “Treating Back Pain and Inflammation with Essential Oils.”
HYPERLINK “https://www.healthline.com/health/essential-oils-for-back-pain” \l “essential-oils-for-
