Essential Oils Back Pain Guide

Essential oils for back pain could be a treatment option as long as they are used correctly. Although their popularity has grown, people are still divided regarding their effectiveness. The common questions that arise do these plant-based oils have the power to alleviate pain, or are they just a placebo?

Oils

They are essentially chemicals extracted from various plants. They are aromatic, and as far as chemical compounds go, they can quickly enter the air allowing for inhalation. Doctors have been asked for their opinions on essential oils. And they agree that they can be effective. However, it is something that is difficult to prove scientifically. Currently, there is not much research to turn to prove that they work. One reason is that it’s challenging to do this type of study.

But there are some reliable studies. A study found that using essential oils as aromatherapy can significantly reduce pain. Another study found orange oil specifically to relieve pain. More research suggests that certain oils are applied as a topical agent to the low back, like wintergreen or peppermint; they act as an alternative pain reducer to traditional meds that cause side effects.

Definitely, more research needs to be done to become a standard form of care. And they can be; it just depends on what it’s for. For example, can they cure cancer? No. Can they help with the symptoms? Yes. Certain oils have anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties. Patients have reported aromatherapy and oils applied topically have helped them with their pain. But, just like anything, it is different for everybody.

When to use

Back pain/conditions that are appropriate for essential oils would be chronic, low-level pain. With numbness, weakness, bowel/bladder dysfunction, or severe, incapacitating pain, go to the hospital, emergency clinic, etc. If pain symptoms do not improve within three to five days, make an appointment with a doctor, chiropractor, or spine specialist.

Always check with a healthcare physician before starting an essential oil regimen. This is to make sure there are no adverse effects or complications. See a doctor or spine specialist to ensure a serious condition is not the cause of back pain. Severe conditions should not be treated with only essential oils. Oils are considered a small part of a larger integrative treatment plan. This includes:

• Allopathic therapies
• Physical therapy
• Mind-body
• Exercises
• Sleep
• Anti-inflammatory diet

Use for back pain

Once a doctor clears an individual to use essential oils, adding them to a back-care treatment plan can be done in two ways.

• Aromatherapy, with the use of a diffuser to release into the air, allowing for inhalation.
• Topical agent in the form of a salve, lotion, or cream, and massaged into the pain area

There are combined aromatic salves and lotions that appeal to patients. An example is aromatherapy combined with calming lavender oil. Oils that are used to alleviate back pain:

• Lavender is an excellent choice as an aromatherapy
• Orange

For a topical agent:

• Ginger
• Camphor
• Menthol
• Rosemary
• Wintergreen
• Mint

What to Know

Choosing the topical option means the oil needs to be diluted, as undiluted oil can cause a rash or other reactions. They can be diluted with a carrier. This can be almond, avocado, or coconut. Never ingest essential oil. They can be highly toxic if ingested and should not be used for small children. Used correctly, they could help with back pain issues; ask your doctor or chiropractor if they could be an option.

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Lower Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment