November 18, 2020 2 min read

Back pain affects millions of people every year. It is the leading cause of disability in the world. Back pain can be acute or chronic. Certain essential oils have been found in scientific studies to help relieve many of the symptoms associated with back pain. Here are the best essential oils for relieving back pain are:

Ginger Essential Oil has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It works as an analgesic in reducing both acute and chronic inflammation as demonstrated in this study that tested the use of Swedish massage and ginger essential oil in adults with chronic low back pain. Of course, the results showed a significant improvement in pain intensity and disability with the Swedish massage and ginger oil treatment, compared to traditional Thai massage.

Lavender essential oil is used for a multitude of conditions in aromatherapy practice but one of its lesser known qualities is its use in relieving back pain. Lavender essential oil is analgesic and anti-inflammatory.

You know, studies have shown that the use of lavender essential oil for low back pain has helped to relieve symptoms. In a controlled trial, an intervention group underwent eight sessions of acupressure and acupoint stimulation with lavender oil in addition to usual care. The intervention group experienced a 39% reduction in pain intensity, improved walking time and greater lateral spine flexion range compared to the group receiving usual care only.

Peppermint essential oil is probably the most popular of the mint oils but it is also possibly the most “potent.” It has a higher level of the chemical components menthol and menthone which are responsible for its potency.

The essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the small, perennial herb. Peppermint oil may help to relieve the symptoms of lower back pain when used in combination with other oils. Like other essential oils used for back pain, peppermint oil has analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions.

Chamomile essential oil, is a small, inconspicuous herb with daisy-like flowers.

The essential oil is extracted from these flowers. Do not confuse Roman chamomile with its botanical cousin German chamomile although the two can often be used for similar purposes. Chamomile has traditionally been used as an anti-inflammatory agent and can be useful in treating osteoporosis. 

Sweet Marjoram Essential Oil Sweet marjoram essential oil has a warm and spicy aroma, although more camphoraceous and less sharp than ginger essential oil. In combination with other essential oils, sweet marjoram essential has been shown to produce a calming effect on back pain.

When dealing with back aches and back related pain issues, all ways remember to use an essential oil that has analgesic, antispasmodic, nerve calming and sedative qualities. Always dilute essential oils in a base, such as a vegetable oil before applying to the skin.