Many people suffer from joint pain, especially after a long, hard day. Joint pain can make it hard to function, relax and enjoy yourself. It can make running after young children a nightmare.
Instead of reaching for an aspirin or chemically-based topical pain reliever, however, why not give essential oils a try? Essential oils have been used traditionally for generations for a wide range of purposes, including pain relief.
3 essential oils to try for soothing relief of joint pain are:
Wintergreen
Wintergreen essential oil is derived from the leaves and bark of the wintergreen tree. Before synthetic pain relievers were manufactured in the 1920s, wintergreen and birch essential oils were considered by many to be one of the best options for pain relief.
Birch essential oil is no longer available, due to the scarcity of the birch tree, but wintergreen is in abundance. Wintergreen essential oil boasts analgesic, antispasmodic and anti-rheumatic properties.
Some research has shown that wintergreen essential oil has cortisone-like effects that can swiftly ease many varieties of pain. Methyl salicylate, the primary ingredient in aspirin, is found naturally in wintergreen.
For use on joints, mix one part wintergreen essential oil with four parts of a base oil, such as organic, extra virgin coconut oil. Massage into aching joints.
Note: Do not use wintergreen essential oil on children under 5. This oil also acts as an anticoagulant, and may therefore increase the effect of prescription blood thinners.
Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil is made from the leaves and stems of the peppermint plant. A study performed in 1994 found that this essential oil was effective in blocking channels that transmit pain signals.
Peppermint has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, analgesic and antispasmodic properties, to name only a few. It has also been used to clear the mind, along with combating many forms of pain.
Combine peppermint essential oil with an equal amount of organic, extra virgin coconut oil, and massage into joints.
Note: Do not use on children under 6, or on anyone who has high blood pressure.
Spruce
Spruce essential oil comes from the branches, needles and twigs of the spruce tree – in many cases, the black spruce. It has been used traditionally to combat infections and support the immune system, as well as for arthritis and lower back pain, along with sciatica and rheumatism.
This essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antiseptic properties. It also has cortisone-like effects, which may ease pain rapidly.
Dilute spruce essential oil with an equal amount of organic, extra-virgin coconut oil and apply to joints.
When choosing an essential oil, make sure that it is s high-quality, therapeutic grade, to ensure maximum effectiveness.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.experience-essential-oils.com/essential-oils-for-pain.html
