5 Best Essential Oils for Back Pain

Back pain!
Who hasn’t felt it at some time in his life?
The problem is quite common and the causes can spring from one among a long list that includes:

• Muscle strain
• Sciatica
• Poor posture
• Arthritis
• Obesity
• Spondylosis
• Tight hamstrings
• Spine curvature
• Pinched nerves
• Lifting large items
• Uncomfortable mattress

Some people with back pain turn to aspirin but too much of it can cause terrible side effects. Essential oils are a better alternative.

Essential oils are substances present in the petals, roots, stems and other regions of plants. These natural oils are usually extracted by the process of steam distillation and are sweet smelling, from carrying the smell of the plants from which they are sourced. Frequently, they go further than alleviate pain and work on the frazzled nerves that could trigger back spasms. Below we give you a rundown of 5 of the best essential oils for back pain.
 

Chamomile

When you see the word chamomile, possibly the first thing that comes to your mind is tea and its associated stress-reducing benefits. Chamomile is also great for back pain. It has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and analgesic benefits. Owing to its calming, therapeutic effects, it soothes the body when applied topically.
Two kinds of chamomile essential oil are commonly available. German chamomile is ideal for severe pain in the muscles, bones, and joints and for acute inflammation. Roman chamomile is a gentler oil. If you’re affected with spinal neuralgia, using this oil can decrease symptoms. It is helpful in managing arthritis too because it stimulates blood flow.
 

Lavender

Who hasn’t heard of lavender essential oil? The analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities of this oil make it suitable for alleviating backaches.
Whatever the cause of your pain, whether an accidental muscle strain, sciatica type of condition or other cause, lavender can help to lessen muscle tightness, swelling and spasms. The pleasant smell of the oil has been proven to ease tension all through the body.
Add Epsom salts to lavender oil in your bath and you have a remedy to loosen up the pelvis, lower back, and hips. The outcomes are a better range of motion and flexibility and of course, less pain.
 

Marjoram

A kitchen herb, marjoram is also a wonderful back pain oil. It is soothing, warming and reduces muscle and joint tension.
A considerable number of back pain problems are helped by marjoram essential oil. This includes generalized muscle pain, spasms, muscle fatigue, sprains and cartilage injury. The oil also decreases arthritis-associated inflammation.
Marjoram increases in effectiveness when mixed with lavender or chamomile oil.
 

Peppermint Oil

The uplifting and enriching oil that is peppermint is also anti-inflammatory and analgesic.
Cooling and soothing peppermint oil quickly numb pain that developed from acute strain or injury. Additionally, it provides long-term safety against lower back tightness and inflammation. Use it to ease muscle spasms and aches and fibromyalgia pain. It is also good for lower back muscle relaxation and arthritis. Great news for you and bad news for your lower back pain!
 

Wintergreen

Wintergreen essential oil enjoys a reputation as an aromatic, analgesic, antispasmodic and anti-arthritic aromatherapy oil.
The oil has a high dose of methyl salicylate (minimum 85 percent), the chemical responsible for decreasing muscle stiffness and pain. Owing to the high potency of methyl salicylate, refrain from utilizing a heating pad after application.
With respect to its action on arthritic and rheumatic conditions, wintergreen oil triggers blood circulation in the area surrounding affected muscles and tissues. As a result, the blood obstructions which are a key cause for both conditions, are done away with.
 

How to Use Them

Topical application by way of massaging the essential oil into the skin (the affected area) is a good way to use it. Instead of massaging the oil as is, it is better to blend it with coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil or any other carrier oil to reduce the potency. This will safeguard you against possible skin irritation.
Application frequency may vary from 2 to 4 times a day, using only a few drops per application. For severe pain, the oil application can be followed by a hot compress. This enables deeper penetration.
The essential oil may also be added to bath water. You can soak in your tub with a mix of 10 drops of essential oil and 2 cups of Epsom salt to help with back pain. Lie in there for approximately 20 minutes.
A word of caution. It is ideal to consult an aromatherapist before starting essential oil back pain treatment. However, if you’re doing it yourself, first carry out a patch test of the essential oil you’re considering. If there’s no reaction such as red patch, burning or tingling, the oil is most likely tolerable for you.
Complement your essential oil treatment with upper and/or lower back pain exercise for maximum benefit.

About the Author
Jessica is an avid reader who enjoys getting lost in the world of books. Holding on to her passion for fitness, She Believes that healthy diet is a key to healthy living.
 
Have you used essential oils for back pain?
Which oils did you use?
Share your experiences and comments with us.