Can you use Essential Oils for Muscle Pain and Stiffness?
Absolutely, you can! But the key is knowing what oils to use (specific constituents found in the oils) and how to use them. Many times when we use Essential Oils for everyday issues, we have the option of using them topically or aromatically. And while the scent of certain oils may help to reduce stress that comes from being uncomfortable due to pain, with physical problems, topical application is best. There are many ways to use Essential Oils topically (as discussed in this article), but we will go into some specific ways to really get relief.
What are the Best Essential Oils for Muscle Pain and Stiffness?
When choosing which Essential Oils to use for muscle pain, you will want to look for those that contain certain chemical compounds known to relieve discomfort and inflammation. Some of these include menthol, alpha-pinene, camphor, and beta-caryophyllene. In studies, these have shown to be the most effective analgesic and anti-inflammatory when used topically.
Additionally, when you are looking for oils to aid in perceived muscle pain relief from inhalation alone or with topical use, you want to choose Essential Oils high in linalyl acetate and linalool.
The ever popular Peppermint is an ideal Essential Oil for muscle pain due to its cooling properties. Because it contains menthol, it has the ability to create a cool sensation that numbs the area and improves blood flow. Additionally, it is anti-inflammatory so it can help to reduce swelling and relax muscles. If you are looking for more information on Peppermint, make sure to check out this article.
On the opposite side of Peppermint, Ginger Essential Oil offers a warming sensation. Not only does it reduce stiffness and soreness, it increases circulation and produces a warmth that is very soothing to the painful area.
Another warming oil is Camphor. This oil increases blood flow to the muscles and stimulates the nerve endings to disrupt pain signals. Please be mindful that Camphor is a hot oil and should be diluted to .5% for children under 3, 1% for ages 3-6, and only 2% for regular use.
Eucalyptus is a unique oil that produces both a cooling and warming sensation. When applied topically, it can reduce stiffness and ease muscle fatigue. Eucalyptus is also helpful for reducing fluid retention.
Marjoram is specifically known to be ideal for muscle pain relief. It has a somewhat warming effect and is anti-spasmodic (reduces spasms). The scent of Marjoram is also very calming.
This highly prized oil is a wonderful choice for muscle pain and stiffness due to its ability to target the body’s immune response to calm swelling. It has powerful regenerative properties and can directly improve physical trauma. For a deeper look into this amazing oil, check out this blog.
Lavender is a great choice because it can relieve pain both topically and by inhalation. When inhaled, Lavender goes straight to the limbic system and helps to calm the emotional experience caused by pain. Topically, Lavender soothes inflammation.
Essential Oil Blends for Muscle Pain and Stiffness
When it comes to tackling a painful issue, you really want to make sure that you are covering all the bases with a very effective remedy. One of the best options for muscle pain relief is to use a blend, so that the treatment targets perceived pain, inflammation, and tightness.
REVIVE Sore No More
Sore No More was created specifically for muscle pain and stiffness! It is perfect for muscle recovery because it provides cooling relief and calms inflammation. While it comes in a pure Essential Oil blend to be used as you wish, Sore No More also comes ready to use in a roll-on and a soothing rub.
REVIVE The Works
Soothe tired and overworked muscles with this mighty roll-on. The cooling sensation provided by this synergy helps loosen tense muscles and calm the inflammatory response.
Relief- Powered by CBD
This REVIVE blend is extra unique and powerful due to its addition of CBD. Cannabidiol influences the cannabinoid receptors and neurotransmitters in the body which help to interpret pain as being less intense. In addition to that, CBD aids in calming the immune response, which can lower inflammation. REVIVE Relief can be used topically for a more targeted approach or orally for an overall full body effect.
How to use Essential Oils for Muscle Pain and Stiffness
There are many ways to use these particular oils to treat muscle soreness. Here are some ideas for topical applications.
Roll-ons
For easy and convenient targeted relief, you can’t beat a roll-on. These ready to use products are great for fast, on the spot treatment. Of course, as mentioned above, we highly recommend The Works and Sore No More or you can also try the Peppermint Roll-on. But, if you are in the mood for a little DIY, we have a simple recipe for you.
*And if you love making your own rollers at home, be sure to read this guide.
Add all of the ingredients into the bottle and pop in the roller ball.
Apply as needed to painful areas.
Additional Tips for Muscles Pain and Soreness
There are other things to consider when you are battling muscle pain. Prevention is key, whenever it is possible. Oftentimes, simply stretching after exercise or strenuous activity can help to prevent soreness. If it is too late to avoid getting the pain in the first place, after care is very important.
The R.I.C.E Method is a comprehensive approach to muscle pain and stiffness:
R- Rest
I- Ice
C- Compression
E- Elevation
Rotate these for the first 24 hours. Heat is not recommended until after this method is complete.
Diet:
Magnesium and potassium rich foods like bananas, potatoes, brown rice, and avocados can help to reduce muscle spasms, Also, remember to stay hydrated!
Sleep:
Many people do not realize the importance of a good night’s sleep. While resting your injury is key to recovery, sleep is actual healing time. Your body needs it to fully recover.
Final Thoughts on Essential Oils for Muscle Pain and Stiffness
When it comes to addressing muscle pain, soreness, or stiffness, REVIVE has got you covered with Organic Essential Oils, Blends, Roll-ons, Carrier Oils, and more. There is no need to suffer when you are feeling uncomfortable because you can feel good about using Essential Oils and CBD for all natural pain relief. With 100% pure, sustainably sourced oils that are lab tested, you know you are getting the best quality products. Also, if you have any questions on how to utilize your Essential Oils, remember that there is a very useful blog on REVIVE’s website that you can use as a resource whenever you need it.
