- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Essential oils can be helpful in reducing inflammation, easing muscle spasms, and increasing blood circulation for those who suffer from chronic muscle discomfort. Although there are many oils available to you, we feel the following to be the most effective essential oils for relieving muscle discomfort, and the best way to use the oil effectively.
How to Use?
Here are five amazing ways you can use the essential oils to effectively relieve muscle tension and put you in a relaxed state.
1) Create Aromatherapy Muscle Gel
This is a popular method for massaging sore muscles. Simply combine 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 2 drops of essential oil. Then add enough water to make it smooth and spreadable. This helps prevent the oil from separating too much during application.
The afflicted area can be treated directly with the gel. After about 20 minutes, remove it with water.
2) Aromatherapy muscle rub
Another method is to create a paste by combining equal parts coconut oil and almond oil. Add some drops of essential oil to this mixture. Then massage your muscles with the paste; this will result in reduced swelling and increased muscle circulation. You can leave the paste on overnight if needed.
3) Apply a compress
You can make a hot compress using water and essential oil. Place a towel under warm running water and add 2–3 drops of essential oil to the water. Soak a washcloth in the liquid and place it against your painful area. Leave it there for 10 minutes.
If you have an injury, you can apply a cold compress made of ice and essential oil. Simply fill a bowl with crushed ice and add a drop or two of essential oil. Then, directly apply the compress to the wounded region.
4) Take a bath
You might also give adding a few drops of essential oils to a bath a go. Add 1/2 cup of Epsom salt in a tub of warm water. Once the water reaches room temperature, add 3–5 drops of essential oil. Relax in the tub for 15 minutes.
5) Use a diffuser
The easiest way to use essential oils for muscle tension relief is to diffuse them into your home. You can purchase a diffuser at a local store or make one using a few simple tools.
Essential Oils for Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps are painful spasms that can occur during exercise or after prolonged periods of sitting. They may be caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, magnesium deficiency, or other factors. If you’ve ever felt this kind of pain, try these essential oils.
Rosemary
Rosemary is one of the most commonly used herbs for muscle cramps. It contains antispasmodic properties, meaning it reduces muscle contractions.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is another herb that has proven beneficial for muscle cramps. In addition, studies show that eucalyptus increases circulation and improves oxygenation, which are important for maintaining good health.
Ginger
Ginger has been shown to help prevent the onset of muscle cramping in athletes. Ginger contains a compound called zingiberene which helps prevent calcium loss from your bones. This could explain why it reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
Thyme
Thyme is another herb that is effective against muscle cramps. It relieves muscle spasms and calms nerves, which can lead to less discomfort.
Chamomile
Chamomile has been used as a medicinal plant for a very long time. Its capacity to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort makes it well-liked. People who frequently get muscle cramps will find it especially beneficial.
Essential Oils for Neck Muscle Tension
Tension headaches are prevalent. The cause of tension headaches is not always clear, but they often involve tightness in the neck.
Frankincense
A particularly effective anti-inflammatory is frankincense. It is a popular choice for relieving muscle tension and headache pain.
Clove
Cloves contain high levels of eugenol, which acts as a natural analgesic. Eugenol has been shown to relieve tension without causing sedation.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a wonderful spice for your kitchen cupboard. It has many uses, including being a natural remedy for arthritis. Turmeric is also an excellent curcumin source, a potent anti-inflammatory agent that relieves tension.
Essential Oil blends for Muscle Pain
You can improve blood circulation for healing by using essential oils to reduce inflammation, alleviate spasms, and reduce pain. You can use them alone or combine them to create your own unique blend for increased benefit. The following oils have been proven to promote muscle relaxation.
Peppermint
Peppermint is one of the best oils for sore muscles because it relaxes tense muscles and stimulates blood circulation. Additionally, because of its antibacterial properties, it is excellent for treating cuts and abrasions.
Black pepper oil
Black pepper oil relieves pain by warming up your body. It is also an excellent digestive aid.
Cinnamon oil
This oil’s cooling effect on the body makes it perfect for easing muscle aches and pains. The extract of cinnamon bark contains cinnamic acid, which is responsible for this soothing effect.
Rosemary oil
Rosemary oil is a strong antiseptic and disinfectant, which makes it ideal for treating wounds and infections. It also has a calming effect which is useful when dealing with stress.
Lavender oil
Another well-liked oil for treating the symptoms of muscle discomfort is lavender. For those who experience anxiety, it provides a relaxing impact on the nervous system. Lavender is especially beneficial for lowering stress and enhancing sleep when paired with peppermint.
Lippia
Another common essential oil for treating muscle discomfort is lippia. It is a natural stimulant that boosts mood and energy. Combining Lippia with other relaxing oils like chamomile will create a synergistic effect that makes this combination even more effective.
Conclusion
The above is just a small selection of the many oils available for muscle pain relief. You may find some of these more suitable than others, depending on what type of pain you are experiencing.
How we reviewed this article:
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/peppermint-oil
Current Version
August 9, 2022
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Jake Peter received his journalism degree from Emerson College and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2021. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
