Have Pain, Will Gain

I started out writing my blog about grapefruit today, but knee pain keeps distracting me as I continually pause to research homemade topical analgesic options.  I've worked with massage therapists who used essential oils for pain in the past, and they reported fabulous results.  Remembering this, I set about gaining some knowledge of making my own topical pain relief. 

What to use for topical massage?  Most massage oils contain a carrier oil and essential oil.  Carrier oils, or base oils are named so because they carry a scented essential oil to the skin during massage and do not have a concentrated smell of their own.  They do not evaporate like the aromatic plant based essential oils and allow absorption of essential oils for pain relief.  Popular choices for carrier oils include:  

Sweet almond oil: slightly oily, absorbed quickly, high in phytonutrients & vitamin E.
Apricot kernel oil: similar to almond but more expensive, rich in vitamin E and therefore longer shelf life, non-greasy.
Jojoba: silky, antibacterial properties and excellent absorption and require more frequent application.
Fractionated Coconut Oil: light, odorless, non-greasy liquid that absorbs easily and washes out of fabrics.
Wheatgerm Oil: too thick to use alone as massage oil, rich in vitamin B and E, and lecithin. It is an antioxidant, and has been known to reduce scaring from tissue damage and stretch marks.  Mixes well with lighter oils.
Grape Seed Oil: little to no odor, silky but not greasy, antioxidant and is very good for the skin, but most therapists say this does not work well for aromatherapy due to how it is pressed.

There are over 60 different essential oils that contain analgesic (pain reducing) properties, and many oils contain anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic benefits.  Most recipes use one or two oils, but some blends may have four to six oils.  Since everybody's body chemistry is different, some oils may work better and have a more appealing scent than others.  Common essential oil choices for pain relief include:

Wintergreen Essential Oil: warming to the skin, contains methyl salicylate, same component of aspirin and relieves pain and inflammation from muscles, and joints.  Often used with peppermint.
Peppermint Essential Oil: cooling, it blocks pain and enhances other effects of oils.
Vetiver Essential Oil: warming, anti-spasmodic properties - good for sprains, rheumatism & arthritis.
Red Thyme Essential Oil:  warming, analgesic & anti-inflammatory.
Oregano Essential Oil: warming, anti-oxidant & anti-inflammatory, used for joint and muscle pains.
Lemongrass Essential Oil: is reported to repair connective tissue and especially good for ligaments and tendons.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil: anti-inflammatory & antimicrobial properties, primarily used for joint pain.
Basil Essential Oil: anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and claimed to be a natural muscle relaxer, used for sprains and arthritis.

Essential oils can be applied almost anywhere on the body (avoid the eyes, of course).  It should be noted that the fastest absorption occurs on sensitive areas like the soles of the feet, armpits, and palms of the hand, so use accordingly. Always make sure that oils are properly diluted before applying to the skin--about 10 drops of essential oil for every 4 teaspoons of carrier oil would be considered normal dilution while 2-5 drops essential for every 4 teaspoons of carrier oil would be low dilution.

Merriam-Webster's definition of pain: a state of physical, emotional, or mental lack of well-being. So physical pain comes with the bonus of emotional distress when we are not functioning at our normal 100 percent.  Since essential oils are thought to reduce and minimize pain while providing great aromatherapy, it is much more appealing to apply a product that smells like tar or chemicals.  I will post the verdict on my own recipe concoctions and the corresponding relief.


Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only, it is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or, diagnose any disease or condition. Nor is it intended to prescribe in any way.  As with all essential oils, never use them undiluted and do not take internally. Keep away from pets and children. If applying an essential oil to your skin always perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body (after you have properly diluted the oil in an appropriate carrier).
Food allergies with topicals do apply, so be sure not to use if you have nut or food specific reactions.  Also, some products are not recommended for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.  Always check with a doctor before using.