Almost all Americans can experience back pain, at least once in their lifetimes. The pain can be severe and debilitating at times, causing you to have difficulties when working, playing your favorite sports, or attending to daily household chores. The good news is you can find a solution in essential oils for back pain, whether it is acute or chronic in nature.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Regarded as one of nature’s most potent analgesics, peppermint essential oil is used in fighting body aches, including back pain. It gets that power to heal an aching body with its menthol content. Some use peppermint oil when massaging, while others combine it with other oils to give that soothing relief to the back, once it has been applied over the affected area.
Ginger Oil
Like peppermint, ginger has mentholated ingredients that make it a good solution for reducing back pain and all sorts of body ache. It is best note for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Ginger oil can be applied and massaged topically over the affected area for better relief.
Eucalyptus Oil
With antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, eucalyptus oil ranks in the same nature as peppermint oil when it comes to relieving pain. It has analgesic effects that work on muscles and joints, and can treat anything from arthritis to flu to wounds. It is also applied topically over the affected area during back pain treatment.
Lavender Oil
Lavender is one among the most widely used and popular essential oils. It has undergone different studies, many of which prove that it can be used for a variety of ailments. Clinical reviews show how effective lavender oil is when it comes to alleviating not just headaches, but muscle pain as well. This makes it a popular choice when treating back pain.
Lemongrass Oil
Best known for its antifungal properties, lemongrass essential oil has also been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it effective in reducing inflammation as well as in alleviating pain, including the one that you can feel on your back.
Wintergreen Oil
Wintergreen oil, like peppermint oil, has analgesic properties. It contains methyl salicylate, which is known for containing similar effectiveness as aspirin, a popular pain medication. You need to talk to your doctor, though, before using wintergreen oil for back pain, as it can contraindicate blood thinners, and increase the risk of bleeding.
Chamomile Oil
Chamomile itself is already known for its calming and soothing properties. This makes chamomile tea a popular choice among people who get sick. Its essential oil counterpart has benefits as well, among them are its ability to lessen muscle spasms, and reduce overall inflammation. This should not be taken by those who have ragweed, allergy, however.
How to Use These Essential Oils When Treating Back Pain
As mentioned, they can be applied topically over the affected area. Others can inhale them in aromatherapy, while there are those who use them in a bath. Whatever method you want to use when using essential oils for back pain treatment, you must always see to it that your choice is the best for your concern.