Looking for a natural way to manage pain? Essential oils might be just what you need.
Essential oils come from plants—they’re taken from petals, stems, roots, and bark, usually through steam distillation. Each oil has its own unique scent and benefits, and you can use them on their own or mix them together.
People have been using essential oils for centuries to support physical, emotional, and mental health.
Can essential oils help with pain?
Some studies suggest that certain essential oils may help with issues like:
- inflammation
- headaches
- depression
- sleep problems
- breathing issues
We still need more research to fully understand how they work for pain relief, but adding essential oils to your current pain management routine is usually safe. Just check with your doctor first to make sure it’s okay for you.
Here are some essential oils that may help relieve pain:
- Lavender
- Rose
- Bergamot
- Wintergreen
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Eucalyptus
- Chamomile
- Clary sage
- Ginger
- Clove
- Lemongrass
- Frankincense
Also Read: What are Safe Natural Remedies for Arthritis Pain?
A Closer Look at Some Popular Oils
Lavender
Lavender oil is known for its calming effects. A 2013 study found that kids who smelled lavender after a tonsil surgery needed less Tylenol. Another study in 2015 showed it could ease pain and inflammation—almost as well as a common prescription drug. People with migraines also found relief just by inhaling it.
Rose
Many women get painful cramps during their periods. Rose oil has been shown to reduce menstrual pain when used alongside regular treatment. It may also help ease pain from kidney stones.
Bergamot
This citrusy oil may help reduce nerve pain, especially the kind that doesn’t respond well to painkillers.
Wintergreen & Peppermint
Both have a cooling effect and are key ingredients in products like Bengay and Icy Hot. While research on wintergreen is mixed, peppermint oil has shown promise. One study found that peppermint tablets helped with chest pain and swallowing issues. A menthol gel also helped ease migraine pain in another study.
Rosemary
Studies in both mice and humans have shown that rosemary may help manage pain, especially when combined with other treatments like acupressure.
Eucalyptus
This is a common ingredient in pain-relief creams. A 2021 study on animals found it could reduce pain and inflammation in specific doses.
Chamomile
In a study on people with osteoarthritis, chamomile oil helped reduce the need for pain meds. It also helped ease symptoms in people with carpal tunnel after just four weeks of use.
Clary Sage
In one study, women who used a cream with clary sage oil (and other oils) on their lower belly had less severe period cramps.
Also Read: How can I Relieve Joint Pain at Home with Natural Ingredients?
Ginger
Ginger oil offers several benefits, including pain relief, reducing inflammation, and blocking pain signals. It may also help with coughs and even cancer-related symptoms.
Clove
Known for soothing toothaches, clove oil also acts as a natural numbing agent when applied to the skin.
Lemongrass
People with arthritis reported less pain after using lemongrass oil for 30 days. It might also help with migraines and stomach pain due to a compound similar to aspirin.
Frankincense
This ancient oil has been used for inflammation and pain. Studies in animals suggest it might help with arthritis too.
Blended Oils Work Too
Sometimes, mixing oils gives even better results.
- A 2012 study found that a mix of lavender, clary sage, and marjoram reduced menstrual pain.
- Another blend of cinnamon, clove, rose, and lavender helped lessen discomfort and bleeding before periods.
- People with terminal cancer experienced pain and mood improvement after hand massages with bergamot, lavender, and frankincense oils.
How to Use Essential Oils for Pain
1. Massage
Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil, then massage it into sore areas. You can do this yourself or go to a professional.
2. Inhale
Use a diffuser or try the steam method:
- Fill a bowl with hot water.
- Add a few drops of oil.
- Lean over, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in the steam for up to 10 minutes.
3. Take a Bath
Add essential oils to a warm (not too hot) bath. This lets the oil absorb through your skin and gives you the added benefit of aromatherapy from the steam.
Also Read: Can Dietary Changes Serve as Natural Pain Remedies?
Important Safety Tips
Essential oils are powerful—so use them carefully:
- Always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to your skin.
- Talk to your doctor before use if you’re:
- pregnant or nursing
- have a health condition
- planning to use them on children or older adults
Possible side effects include:
- skin irritation or rash
- increased sensitivity to the sun
- allergic reactions
