Top Essential Oil Blends For Pain
Pain is an unpleasant feeling that can range from mild to severe and can significantly interfere with our daily lives. While some people may turn to prescription or over-the-counter medication for pain relief, there are other natural alternatives such as essential oils. In this article, we will explore the many benefits of using essential oils for pain relief, as well as provide safety tips on how to use them effectively. We will also look at some of the top essential oil blends for pain relief so you can find the best option for your needs.
How Essential Oils Work to Relieve Pain
Essential oils are concentrated extracts from plants that have long been used to provide natural relief from a variety of ailments, including pain. They are commonly used in aromatherapy, an alternative medicine practice involving the use of essential oils to promote health and well-being.
It is believed that the aroma of the essential oil may help to block pain signals from reaching the brain, allowing it to relax and reduce stress levels which in turn can help ease the pain. Additionally, some essential oils have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation associated with pain. Essential oils may also work by stimulating the release of endorphins – hormones that act as natural painkillers in the body.
You can use essential oils topically when mixed with a carrier oil such as argan or jojoba oil. This allows them to penetrate deeper into the skin and muscle tissue, helping reduce inflammation and tension. Some people also find that inhaling certain essential oils helps soothe their aches as well as provide a sense of relaxation.
It’s important to note however that essential oils can interact with certain medications, so consult your doctor before using them for pain relief or any other medical issue. Additionally, some people may be allergic or sensitive to certain types of essential oils so be sure to do a patch test before using them on your skin and to only diffuse them in small amounts.
Best Essential Oil Blends for Pain Relief
When it comes to pain relief, there are certain essential oils that have proven to be particularly effective — and when combined, you can enhance their healing powers. Below are some of our favorite pain-relieving essential oil blends.
Lavender + Peppermint
One of the most commonly recommended essential oil blends for pain relief is a combination of lavender and peppermint essential oils, which is thought to help relax tense muscles and soothe aches and pains. This blend has calming properties that can help with everything from headaches to muscle soreness. In fact, one study found that lavender essential oil was effective at relieving pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis and another one revealed that peppermint oil was very effective at relieving tension headaches. To use this blend, add 2 drops of each oil into a diffuser with water or combine with ½ teaspoon of jojoba oil and massage into the skin.
Eucalyptus + Rosemary
Another popular blend for relieving pain is eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils. This combination is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and helps stimulate circulation, which can reduce swelling in joints and muscles. One of the reasons why it’s so powerful is because eucalyptus oil contains 70% to 85% eucalyptol (also known as 1,8-cineole), which has proven to be effective in reducing pain. To use this blend, add 2 drops of each oil into your diffuser with water or mix with ½ teaspoon of a carrier oil before applying topically onto the affected area.
Ginger + Black Pepper
A third common blend for pain relief is ginger and black pepper essential oils. This combination helps reduce inflammation while also providing soothing warmth to tired joints. In fact, one study found that ginger essential oil was effective at reducing joint swelling. To use this blend, add 2 drops of each oil into your diffuser with water or mix with a carrier oil before applying topically onto the affected area.
The next time you’re feeling achy or sore, consider using the essential oil blends we shared to help ease your body. To learn more about how you can use essential oils to aid in pain relief, check out this article: DIY Aromatherapy Roll-On to Relieve Headaches.
