Aromatherapy is a popular complementary treatment for people with arthritis, a condition that causes debilitating symptoms such as pain, swelling, reduced range of motion, and stiffness. Essential oils, which are highly concentrated liquids derived from plants, can be used to target joint inflammation and pain. While they are not a cure, certain aromas can be used to alleviate swollen joints.
What You'll Learn
Frankincense and myrrh
Frankincense, also called olibanum, is used mainly for its fragrance, though it also has medicinal uses. The sap used to create frankincense comes slowly, and it is allowed to dry on the tree for several months. The hardened sap is collected and used as frankincense. The trees have never been domesticated, and it can take up to 25 years before the resin can be harvested. If harvested sustainably, the trees are long-lived.
Frankincense has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to help rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness. It can be applied as an essential oil topically, chewed, or mixed with water to drink. Potential side effects include skin irritation, and the safety of its use during pregnancy and lactation is unknown.
Myrrh is a gum derived from tree resin and has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions. It has natural analgesic properties that make it effective as a natural essential oil for RA treatment. It can be used in combination with other anti-inflammatory essential oils to help alleviate joint pain and stiffness. Myrrh is considered safe for most people when taken in small amounts. Potential side effects include skin rash, diarrhoea, and decreased blood sugar levels. Large doses are considered harmful and can cause kidney complications and heart rate changes. It should not be taken during pregnancy as it can stimulate the uterus and cause a miscarriage.
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Ginger
Several studies have found that ginger can be effective in reducing pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. In one study, participants with osteoarthritis who took ginger capsules twice a day for 6 months experienced a significant reduction in pain compared to a control group. Another study found that 95% of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee treated with ginger reported a reduction in pain.
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Eucalyptus
The oil can be inhaled as a vapour or applied to the skin as a cream or ointment to help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. It is also used to treat minor burns and other minor injuries.
Research has shown that eucalyptus oil is effective in reducing pain and inflammation. A study from the Catholic University of Korea in Seoul found that a blend of aromatic oils, including eucalyptus, helped to reduce pain and improve mood in people with arthritis. Another study from Korea University in Seoul found that inhaling eucalyptus oil after knee replacement surgery was effective in reducing pain and blood pressure.
It is important to note that eucalyptus oil should always be diluted before use, and it should not be ingested or used on babies, children, or during pregnancy.
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Lavender
In addition to its pain-relieving properties, lavender oil has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, promote restful sleep, and improve mood. This is due to the presence of two compounds, linalool and linalyl acetate, which have sedative and calming effects.
How to Use Lavender Oil for Pain Relief
There are several ways to use lavender oil for pain relief:
- Massage: Use a cream containing lavender oil and massage it into the affected area before bed.
- Diffuser: Put a few drops of lavender essential oil on a cloth and inhale its aroma, or use a diffuser to mist the oil into the air.
- Spray: Add 5-10 drops of lavender oil to a spray bottle with water and mist it into the air or onto your sheets.
- Rollerball: Mix lavender oil with a carrier oil and put the blend into a small rollerball bottle to carry with you and apply when needed.
Precautions
While lavender oil is generally safe, it is important to use it as directed and exercise caution. Undiluted essential oils can irritate the skin, so it is important to dilute lavender oil with a carrier oil before applying it directly to the skin. It should also not be ingested or used on babies, children, or pregnant women.
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Bergamot and lavender
Bergamot oil is extracted from the rinds of citrus fruit and has a soothing, spicy scent. It has a wide range of potential health benefits, including reducing pain and inflammation. Research suggests that bergamot oil can be an effective spot treatment for acne and other skin issues due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It's also been found to improve mood and reduce anxiety and fatigue. Bergamot oil can be used topically by mixing it with a carrier oil, such as olive oil, or added to products like shampoo and body wash.
Lavender oil is often used in skin, hair, and acne products due to its classic scent and therapeutic benefits. Research has shown that lavender essential oil can be an effective pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. In one study, children who inhaled the scent of lavender were able to reduce their dose of acetaminophen after surgery. Lavender has also been found to improve sleep quality, with people sleeping more soundly and waking up more refreshed when exposed to the scent before bedtime. To use lavender oil, add a few drops to a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil and apply to the skin.
Both bergamot and lavender oils can be blended together to create a soothing aroma for relaxation and improved sleep. When using essential oils, it's important to do a patch test before applying them to a large area of skin to check for any allergic reactions.
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