Incredible Essential Oils for Arthritis

Arthritis is very common but isn’t well understood. Actually, “arthritis” is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions.

Arthritis can be caused by the natural aging process, a gradual wearing away of the tissues surrounding the joints, environmental and genetic factors (rheumatoid arthritis), high levels of uric acid, nutrient deficiency, low bone mineral density, or various viral and bacterial infections. Most commonly characterized by pain and swelling in the joints of the hands, arms, and legs, this group of conditions is the leading cause of disability in most parts of the world. Symptoms typically include pain and inflammation, reduced range of motion, difficulty walking or using your hands, stiffness and permanent changes to the physical appearance of the joints.

Essential Oils for Arthritis

Ginger Oil: Ginger is well packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It can effectively lower inflammation and swelling, which can increase a range of motion, while also providing some pain relief to the affected areas.

Usage – It is best to dilute the ginger oil in a carrier oil, such as olive oil or almond oil, and then topically apply it to the site of your pain. You can then apply a warm compressor or towel to the area to promote healing and blood flow.

Lemongrass Oil: It has astringent & diuretic properties, so when applied to these swollen joints, it can help eliminate that excess liquid and improve your range of motion.

How to Use – Diluted forms of lemongrass oil can be applied directly to the joints, although in many traditional treatments, lemongrass oil was added to steaming water and the aching joint was held over the mixture, allowing the steam to soak directly into the skin.

Peppermint Oil: peppermint oil is a great choice for people suffering from chronic arthritis pain. It is also relatively inexpensive & non-irritating, for frequent usage if necessary.

How to Use – One of the few essential oils that don’t irritate the skin in its pure form, you can rub a few drops of it on the site of your arthritis pain for relief. Massage it gently over your joints and let it absorb fully.

Eucalyptus Oil: It’s the notable active ingredient in this essential oil, and research has shown it to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, along with a number of other powerful components that can prevent infections and boost healing.

Usage – It’s best to blend eucalyptus oil with coconut oil or jojoba oil, before applying directly to the sites of pain and inflammation. Applying it in an undiluted form is known to cause skin irritation in those with sensitive skin.

Turmeric Oil: It’s able to directly counter inflammation around the joints. Studies have linked lower pro-inflammatory cytokine levels to elevated amounts of curcumin in the bloodstream, making this one of the best essential oils for arthritis.

How to Use – Simply mix a few drops of turmeric oil into your tea, or even sprinkle it on your food. This is one of the more powerful essential oils, so it should always be diluted in some way.

Frankincense Oil: Research has shown that frankincense can have protective properties for the cartilage in our joints and around our bones, mainly due to the antioxidants and sesquiterpenes found in this oil. By preventing this breakdown of cartilage, it ensures that the bones won’t grind against one another – one of the main causes/symptoms of arthritis.

How to Use – As with most of these arthritis remedies, it can be applied topically to the affected area, but it is best to blend 5-6 drops with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to prevent irritation of the skin.

Black Pepper Oil: because of its anti-inflammatory properties black pepper oil can act as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic substance, which can increase blood flow to the joints, reduce stiffness &pain, and improve range of motion.

How to Use – Due to how strong and potentially irritating black pepper oil can be, mix a few drops into a carrier oil, such as almond oil or jojoba oil, and then topically apply it to the affected area.

Orange Oil: It’s not only a powerful antioxidant but has also been shown to disrupt certain inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines, which reduces painful inflammation, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

How to Use – It’s preferable to mix this oil into warm water or tea (just a few drops) in order to benefit from the inside out, as this helps to regulate the immune system.

Caution: Many of these essential oils are potent and powerful substances, which can cause skin inflammation, gastrointestinal distress, allergic reactions, and other unwanted side effects. Speak to a doctor before using them, particularly if you are considering the use of oils that can be consumed for internal effects. If any negative side effects occur, discontinue the use of oil immediately.