Health & Wellness
Exploring the Best Essential Oils for Managing Lower Back Pain
Back pain is incredibly common. It is thought that around 80% of the population will experience it at some point in their lives. 1 Though in some cases, over-the-counter pain killers may provide pain relief, many prefer trying out other options, such as gentle exercise, physical therapy, massage, or essential oils to relieve back pain. Using essential oils for back pain can help reduce the inflammation, relax sore muscles, and promote better sleep—all of which are essential for healing. Read on to learn more about choosing the right essential oils for back pain relief.
There are many different essential oils that can be used for back pain relief. In fact, most essential oils are likely to provide some relief from back pain because of the anti-inflammatory properties found in many plant terpenes. Highlighted below are some of the best essential oils for back pain relief.
Lemongrass is a popular herb in tropical countries. It is rich in terpenes and ketones, and research shows that it boasts anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has a pleasant aroma and could make a good addition to any inflammation-fighting blend. 2
Ginger is best known for its ability to relieve nausea, but it is also useful for pain relief. Studies show that ginger can be as effective as ibuprofen in relieving certain types of pain, including back pain. 3
Lavender is well-known for its relaxing and therapeutic properties. For instance, studies show that lavender can relieve stress and promote better sleep. 4
If your low back pain makes it difficult for you to sleep at night, consider using lavender around bed-time to ease stress and make it easier for you to doze off. Getting good sleep helps to reduce the perception of pain and is essential for proper healing of injuries. 5
Sandalwood has a distinctive, earthy aroma, and it is a popular choice among people who want the benefits of essential oils but find that more traditional options are too "perfume-like" for them.
This essential oil boasts anti-inflammatory properties and would be a great addition to a bath-time aromatherapy blend before you stretch and or do low back physiotherapy. 6
Eucalyptus has a long history of being used to treat infections, as well as gastric distress. Additionally, this essential oil has anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that it reduces cytokines levels, which cause inflammation. It is this mechanism that makes eucalyptus essential oil potentially useful for reducing back pain. 7
Although essential oils are just one component of a regimen to reduce back pain, their anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties can improve your physical and mental well-being as you combat back pain.
Pair essential oil use with regular exercise depending on your fitness level, and with the guidance of your physician, as well as any other back pain relief regimen determined by a healthcare professional. Be consistent as you try to relieve your back pain. Do a little bit every day, and with luck, you will get your strength and mobility back.
Photo credits: wavebreakmedia/shutterstock.com, AmyLv/shutterstock.com, Boyloso/shutterstock.com, NenadAksic/shutterstock.com
Choosing the Best Essential Oils for Back Pain
There are many different essential oils that can be used for back pain relief. In fact, most essential oils are likely to provide some relief from back pain because of the anti-inflammatory properties found in many plant terpenes. Highlighted below are some of the best essential oils for back pain relief.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass is a popular herb in tropical countries. It is rich in terpenes and ketones, and research shows that it boasts anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has a pleasant aroma and could make a good addition to any inflammation-fighting blend. 2
Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger is best known for its ability to relieve nausea, but it is also useful for pain relief. Studies show that ginger can be as effective as ibuprofen in relieving certain types of pain, including back pain. 3
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender is well-known for its relaxing and therapeutic properties. For instance, studies show that lavender can relieve stress and promote better sleep. 4
If your low back pain makes it difficult for you to sleep at night, consider using lavender around bed-time to ease stress and make it easier for you to doze off. Getting good sleep helps to reduce the perception of pain and is essential for proper healing of injuries. 5
Sandalwood Essential Oil
Sandalwood has a distinctive, earthy aroma, and it is a popular choice among people who want the benefits of essential oils but find that more traditional options are too "perfume-like" for them.
This essential oil boasts anti-inflammatory properties and would be a great addition to a bath-time aromatherapy blend before you stretch and or do low back physiotherapy. 6
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus has a long history of being used to treat infections, as well as gastric distress. Additionally, this essential oil has anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that it reduces cytokines levels, which cause inflammation. It is this mechanism that makes eucalyptus essential oil potentially useful for reducing back pain. 7
Final Thoughts
Although essential oils are just one component of a regimen to reduce back pain, their anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties can improve your physical and mental well-being as you combat back pain.
Pair essential oil use with regular exercise depending on your fitness level, and with the guidance of your physician, as well as any other back pain relief regimen determined by a healthcare professional. Be consistent as you try to relieve your back pain. Do a little bit every day, and with luck, you will get your strength and mobility back.
Photo credits: wavebreakmedia/shutterstock.com, AmyLv/shutterstock.com, Boyloso/shutterstock.com, NenadAksic/shutterstock.com
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