Back pain is an incredibly common source of discomfort and frustration, affecting millions of people all over the world. While there are many forms of relief for this condition, both pharmaceutical and natural, many people are turning to essential oils for their back pain. In this article, we will discuss the many benefits of using essential oils to provide natural relief from back pain. We will cover the types of essential oils that are most effective, how they work to provide relief, and the best ways to incorporate them into your life to maximize the benefits.

Are there any side effects to using essential oils for back pain?

Yes, there are potential side effects to using essential oils for back pain. Essential oils are powerful natural substances and can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other adverse effects if used incorrectly. It is important to use essential oils correctly, and it is best to consult with a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional before using essential oils for back pain.

Are essential oils more effective when combined with other treatments, such as CBD?

Yes, essential oils can be more effective when combined with other treatments, such as CBD, for back pain relief. Studies have found that a combination of essential oils and CBD can provide more relief for chronic back pain than either treatment used alone. In addition, essential oils may help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can have a positive effect on back pain.

Are there any risks associated with using essential oils to treat back pain?

Yes, there are risks associated with using essential oils to treat back pain. Essential oils are powerful and should be used with caution. Side effects can include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, and even nausea. It is also important to remember that essential oils should not be used to replace medical treatment. It is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils to treat any type of health issue.

What essential oils are best for treating chronic back pain?

Some essential oils that may help treat chronic back pain include lavender, peppermint, ginger, eucalyptus, and rosemary. These oils all have natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help reduce muscle tension and ease pain. It is important to dilute each oil with a carrier oil before applying to the skin, and to consult with a healthcare provider before using any essential oil as a treatment.

Is there any scientific evidence that essential oils are effective in treating back pain?

Yes, there is scientific evidence that suggests that certain essential oils can be effective for treating back pain. Studies have found that essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help to reduce swelling, relieve pain, and promote relaxation. However, it is important to keep in mind that the effects of essential oils for back pain may vary from person to person.

After researching the effectiveness of dozens of treatment options, both medical and non-drug, they found that the best treatments for acute and subacute low back pain are non-drug treatments. With that in mind, it may be time to use natural remedies to fight back against your lumbar pain. One of the longest-known solutions is the use of essential oils. Back pain is one of the most common complaints doctors receive and is the leading reason for missed work days 1. Common conditions like sciatica and rheumatism manifest through joint pain, nerve pain and muscle tension in the back 2. Doctors often recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen advil and naproxen aleve. However, if used over a long period of time, these options carry negative side effects like stomach pain and ulcers. Even worse are highly-addictive opioids, which have historically been over-prescribed by doctors, resulting in the current opioid crisis 3. Aromatherapy, which refers to the medicinal or therapeutic use of essential oils absorbed through the skin or through smell, dates back to medieval Persia 4 , offers a simpler approach to pain management which may be worth trying. Essential oils are derived from plants using steam distillation, mechanical pressing, or grating and peeling 5. Using these processes, the liquid oil solution retains the natural smell and flavor of its source. Despite the long history of essential oils being used to treat sore muscles and back pain, there is limited research on its effectiveness. Nevertheless, early results are positive. A study showed that the use of aromatherapy with essential oils resulted in significant improvement in pain 6. Another study released in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences revealed that essential oils exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic pain relieving properties 7. Essential oils are a simple home remedy for pain relief with few side effects relative to traditional pain medications. Scientific evidence on their effectiveness is mixed, however, and so drug treatments like prescription-strength NSAIDs may be necessary if your pain does not respond to home remedies and over-the-counter medication. When applied topically, the following essential oils have been shown to relieve backaches and soothe inflamed muscles. Several essential oils exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce musculoskeletal pain and swelling. When used topically for a massage treatment, dilute your chosen oil with six teaspoons of a carrier oil, which will prevent the potent essential oil from irritating your skin. Coconut oil, jojoba oil and almond oil are common carriers. For inhalation during the day, dab a few droplets of your essential oil onto the pulse points of your wrist. Bring your oil with you and re-apply throughout the day. A third and less common method of application is diffusion. Pour fresh water into the diffuser and add some drops of your oil for a gentle scent in your home or office. Refill the water every few days to ensure freshness. If you want to create your own unique essential oils blend, you can combine complimenting oils in a tincture solution. Be sure to consult an aromatherapy expert or certified guide before experimenting with your blend Essential oils can be applied topically or inhaled, depending on your preference. Follow proper safety measures when using essential oils, especially dilution with a carrier oil if you choose to use topical application. Incorporating essential oils into your routine requires commitment. But, when used in conjunction with other practices like regular exercise and a low glycemic diet, it can greatly reduce inflammation and back pain. Using essential oils to target muscle pain is an affordable remedy that you can experiment with at home. Essential oils carry much less risk than stronger treatments like opioids. Essential oils generally have few side effects and no addictive properties. However, oils should still be used cautiously before establishing a routine and should never be consumed. When using an oil for the first time, make sure to patch test the diluted liquid. If there is no irritation after 24 hours, the oil should be safe to use. As more people turn to alternative forms of treatment for their ailments, essential oils are becoming increasingly accepted as a simple home remedy worth trying for chronic pain. Scientific research indicates that essential oils can be a viable option for back pain relief. Login Get Started. Natalie Pertsovsky. Juliana Bruner, DPT. Table of contents Why Try Essential Oils? Why Try Essential Oils? Summary Essential oils are a simple home remedy for pain relief with few side effects relative to traditional pain medications.