Benefits of Using Aromatherapy to Help Reduce Chronic Pain Symptoms - Southern Pain and Neurological (2024)

FAQs

How does aromatherapy reduce pain? ›

Some studies suggest that olfactory stimulation related to aromatherapy can result in immediate reduction in pain, as well as changing physiological parameters such as pulse, blood pressure, skin temperature, and brain activity [1].

Aromatherapy is used in a wide range of settings, from health spas to hospitals, to treat a variety of conditions. In general, it seems to relieve pain, improve mood, and promote a sense of relaxation.

There's no single recipe for the best oils to use. The research mentioned above included lavender, bergamot, tea tree, geranium, rosemary, blue chamomile, and lemon eucalyptus oils. Other studies show that bergamot, cinnamon, geranium, ginger, lavender, and lemongrass essential oils may help ease pain.

Thyme essential oil had the most effects, reducing COX-2 levels by nearly 75 percent . The National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy also lists many oils that may reduce inflammation, including: roman chamomile.

It has been reported that EOs affect the immediate changes in the autonomic nervous system and physiological responses such as pupil dilation, blood pressure, muscle tone, pulse rate, skin temperature, and brain activity.

Aromatherapy also acts on the central nervous system, relieving depression and anxiety, reducing stress, relaxing, sedating or stimulating, and restoring both physical and emotional well-being (5–7).

Aromatherapy has played an intrinsic role in spiritual and healing practices throughout history. This is because essential oils, aromatic herbs, and incense can be used to promote a sense of relaxation, and grounding, and even inspire a connection to spirit.

Currently, there is no evidence-backed research showing any illnesses that can be cured through the use of essential oils or the practice of aromatherapy. The results on the other possible benefits of essential oils as, for example, mood elevators or stress relievers, are more mixed. But most are still inconclusive.

What is the strongest herb for nerve pain? ›

Herbs that are in the “nervine” category can be very nourishing and soothing to the nerve tissue. Among the best are Chinese skullcap, lemon balm, wood betony, St. John's wort, chamomile, prickly ash and milky oats.

In conclusion, frankincense extract is able to promote sciatic nerve regeneration and improve the function of a crushed sciatic nerve. This study provides a new direction for the repair of peripheral nerve injury.

White willow bark, Boswellia, devil's claw, bromelain, turmeric, and ginger have all shown potential to help ease pain. However, some are not appropriate for children. There may also be instances where these herbal treatments interact with other medications you take, so always discuss these treatments with your doctor.

What Is Aromatherapy? Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils for therapeutic benefit. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries. When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and especially impact the amygdala, the emotional center of the brain.

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years to treat symptoms of inflammation. This is your body's normal immune reaction. It protects your body from threats such as wounds and germs. While essential oils may provide some results, they can also carry the risk of adverse effects.

Eucalyptus has a cooling effect on muscles and reduces pain and inflammation. Roman and German chamomile oils. Chamomile oils can help with pain and inflammation. They also help soothe muscle tension and reduce spasms.

Receptors in your nose pick up the scent and alert your brain through your olfactory nerve, explains Dr. Young. That sets off activity (including hormone release) within the part of your brain that controls your emotions. “That's one of the reasons why people may feel calmer and happier after aromatherapy,” she adds.