Sore muscles, headaches, and joint pain are common ailments that can range from subtle to severe. For some, they can be a daily challenge. Essential oils have diverse activity and, along with a healthy lifestyle, assist in reducing or eliminating these conditions.
Alone or combined, some of the best essential oils for aches and pains are:
• Black pepper
• Eucalyptus
• Frankincense
• Helichrysum
• Peppermint
Safety First
Essential oils are a smart choice for those times when you’ve slept funny or just overdid it on yard work or exercise. Persistent and unexplained pain may require a visit to a healthcare professional.
When you’ve tweaked a muscle or aggravated a joint, one of the following aromatherapy treatments could help relieve your pain.
• Simple massage. Combine 12 drops of your favorite pain-relieving blend (such as helichrysum and peppermint) with 4 teaspoons of carrier oil and massage onto affected areas.
• Soothing soak. If your whole body hurts, infuse a hot bath with some of the oils highlighted here. Incorporate a calming oil or two (such as lavender) to help your muscles melt into pain relief.
• Hot compress. For a targeted approach, add a few drops of black pepper or helichrysum oil to a hot compress and apply it directly to the affected area several times a day.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Hydrate. Sore muscles and cramps can be signs of dehydration, so drink plenty of water.
• Stretch your muscles. A regular yoga routine can help relieve aches and pains.
• Eat well. Certain nutrients and an anti-inflammatory diet are important for preventing pain.
Rather than reaching for over-the-counter creams, try one of these aromatherapy recipes.
The combination of anti-inflammatory oils, Epsom salts, and hot water can help ease the pain of sore muscles and aching joints.
10 drops lavender oil
6 drops helichrysum oil
4 drops eucalyptus oil
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 cup Epsom salts
½ cup coarse sea salt
½ cup baking soda
1 dark-glass pint jar
In a large glass bowl, combine the oils. Add in the Epsom salts, sea salt, and baking soda and whisk to combine. Pour the mixture into your jar. Add ¼ to ½ cup of the blend to a hot bath.
When you need quick relief, apply a warm, oil-infused washcloth to the area. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic oils help dull the pain while the warmth relaxes the area.
4 drops lavender oil
3 drops frankincense oil
2 drops black-pepper oil
1 tablespoon carrier oil
½ cup warm or hot water
1 clean washcloth
Combine the oils in a large glass bowl, then stir in the water. Soak the washcloth in the water, wring it out, and apply it to the affected area. Hold there until the washcloth comes to room temperature. Repeat the process with a fresh cloth, as needed.