Living in pain can make simple day-to-day tasks seem almost impossible. Pain is disruptive, debilitating, and draining. For most of us, that means just the occasional injury or pain complaint that ruins our day. But for some people, living in chronic pain has become a way of life.
Traditional medicine can only do so much, and often comes with limits and side effects. Which is why a lot of people turn to using the best essential oils for joint pain and inflammation – and with great results. Using nature’s own produce in the form of oils is a natural, therapeutic, and effective way to manage pain. I’ve used a lot of oils myself, and I’m writing this article to help you understand where you should start.
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What Is Joint Pain and Inflammation Telling Us?
When you are feeling pain your body is telling you that something is not right. It’s a warning that you need to do something. Its effects different people differently and we all have a different tolerance for pain. But I think everyone agrees that they could do without the pain.
For some people, a migraine can knock them out of action for days. There are painful day-to-day problems like aching muscles, headaches, and joints pains. There are also chronic conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia that people manage daily. Either way, essential oils can provide much-needed pain relief.
When you are in pain your body also starts to heal. It sends more blood and oxygen to the area and this results in the area becoming inflamed. Inflammation is painful to touch. Essential oils can also help to reduce swelling and speed up the recovery process.
Should I Use Essential Oils to Reduce Pain and Inflammation?
The main drawback to modern medicine is the side effects and the potential for becoming dependant on them. Used in moderation and carefully managed there is nothing wrong with traditional medicine. But if you can achieve the same results, or compliment the medicine with a natural approach – why wouldn’t you try it?
There are no real side effects to using essential oils. The oils are pressed from herbs and plants, they are natural, organic, and offer a holistic and effective alternative approach to pain management. Check out these oils below and how they can help. If you’ve never taking this approach to pain management, you may just be about to find the relief you’ve been looking for.
Best Essential Oils for Joint Pain and Inflammation Management
Cayenne Pepper Oil
Oils with spicy ingredients contain a compound called capsaicin. This compound is effective in reducing pain. Cayenne oil has a lovely scent and a nice warm feeling when massaged into the muscles.
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Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil has a floral and enticing scent. It acts as a sedative and relaxant and will help you sleep better and unwind after a long day. If you have aches and pains from a long day this oil will be your saviour.
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Lavender Oil
One of the more popularly used oils is lavender oil. It has a wide range of health benefits. It’s commonly used in therapeutic massages and aromatherapy to help relax muscles and dissolve aches and pains.
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Peppermint Oil
Acting as a painkiller, the menthol properties in peppermint oil are very effective at reducing pain. It also has a fresh, cool feeling, great for reducing inflammation.
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Eucalyptus Oil
If you’ve ever smelled eucalyptus oil you will know how powerful this oil is. It works wonders for sinusitis by opening the sinus passages and allowing you to breathe easier. It’s also an anti-inflammatory.
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Wintergreen Oil
Wintergreen oil has a long history of being used to treat pain. It has a sweet and smooth scent and you will notice almost immediately that you are realising a reduction in pain.
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Thyme Oil
Thyme oil contains the compound called carvacrol. This compound actively reducing inflammation and can reduce swollen ad painful joints. It’s a natural antibiotic and has a sedative effect.
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Ginger Oil
Another spicy oil that is known to reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness in joints. Used with a carrier oil in a massage will give your mind and body a welcome lift.
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How to Safely Use Essential Oils to Treat Pain and Inflammation
There are a few different ways to use essential oils and that’s part of the fun. If you suffer from headaches, try mixing a few drops of your chosen oil with one tablespoon of carrier oil. Use the mixture by gently massaging your temples for a few minutes. You can also put a few drop son your pillow or on a cloth under your pillow.
I’m always talking about diffusers and how much I enjoy diffusing. If you’ve never used a diffuser, it’s going to be one of the smartest purchases you ever make. Check out the Radha Beauty Diffuser, it’s one of the bestselling diffusers on Amazon.
Massage therapy is also a good way to get the benefits from the oils along with a relaxing and enjoyable massage. If it’s muscular pain you suffer with you can stimulate better blood flow to the area and greatly improve the rate of healing. I covered some of the best essential oils for sore muscles in this post.
Precautions, Contraindications and Acting Safely with Essential Oils
You should always read the label of your oil carefully and act within the guidelines. Almost all oils need to be diluted before being applied to the skin, and should never be ingested.
Pick up a good carrier oil too as you will often need to dilute your essential oil with a carrier. You should always test the oil on a small area of skin before using. It’s rare, but some people do have allergic reactions. There isn’t much to be concerned about though, oils are easy to use and very safe.
If you’re pregnant, suffering from any serious illnesses, or concerned about how you feel after using an oil always consult a medical professional before using them again.
These oils are just some of the best essential oils for joint pain and inflammation that I have experience using or have discussed with others. If you have any other oils to add that you’ve had success using, please share by contacting me and I will add to the list.
I’m a MA, (CMT) Certified Massage Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Reiki Master — I’m a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry.