Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of adults worldwide, causing discomfort, pain and inflammation due to deteriorated cartilage. Arthritis is characterised by stiffness and pain in joints, it can hinder one’s quality of life and mobility. Fortunately there are treatments to help improve one’s quality of life and essential oils which can be used in conjunction with certified medical treatment to effectively alleviate the pain caused by arthritis
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated that a staggering 53 million to nearly 60 million adults in the U.S. alone are adversely affected by arthritis. Given how common arthritis is amongst adults, natural treatments offering pain relief are highly sought after. Managing arthritis often involves a combination of conventional treatments and natural remedies. Essential oils have demonstrated their potential therapeutic properties, not only improving mood, promoting overall health but effective in their ability to relieve arthritis’ symptoms.
Essential oils and aiding in the treatment with arthritis
Arthritis is a joint disease characterized by swelling and pain in and around the joints, caused by the degeneration of cartilage. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between joints wears down, leading to inflammation and pain in joints. Osteoarthritis typically affects joints such as the knees, hips, hands and spine.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune dysfunction where the white blood cells begin to attack and destroy the cartilage in the body. Although the exact cause is still unknown, research suggests potential links to bacterial infections, food allergies, excess acid in the body or stress. The symptoms of arthritis can vary in pattern, severity, and location, but typically involve pain and stiffness in and around one or more joints. These symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly, and some rheumatic conditions can affect the immune system and internal organs.
How Essential Oils Can Help
Research suggests that certain essential oils possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce arthritis symptoms. A 2020 review highlighted that essential oils contain bioactive compounds capable of moderating inflammatory responses, potentially offering relief in arthritic conditions. Essential oils are extracted from natural plant products that contain antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. These properties in essential oils have been found to have the potential to alleviate symptoms of arthritis.
Top Essential Oils for Arthritis
1. Orange
Citrus scents, particularly those from orange essential oil, are known for their invigorating properties, helping to enhance alertness and mood. Beyond their uplifting aroma, orange essential oil has been researched for its potential therapeutic benefits, especially in the realm of pain management and inflammation reduction. In a 2009 study published in the European Journal of Medical Research, it was concluded that orange oil was the most effective of those studied for arthritis treatment.
2. Peppermint
Peppermint oil’s active compound, menthol, emits a cooling sensation and can provide temporary pain relief to those suffering from arthritis. When placed in conjunction with other essential oils in aromatherapy, such as lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, and marjoram, research has found it effective in aiding with pain and depression levels. However, research on peppermint oils (Mentha piperita) effectiveness in isolation in relieving arthritis symptoms is inconclusive.
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3. Lavender
Research indicates that lavender essential oil may help alleviate arthritis symptoms through aromatherapy massage. A study published on PubMed examined the effects of this approach on 90 patients with knee osteoarthritis. Participants who received the massage reported significant pain reduction immediately and one-week post-treatment compared to the control group, although these benefits were not statistically significant after four weeks.
In a follow-up study, researchers found notable improvements in daily activities among those receiving aromatherapy massage, but, like the pain relief findings, these effects diminished by the four-week mark. Additionally, reviews have identified lavender essential oil as a common choice for managing symptoms in rheumatic diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Its calming properties can also help reduce anxiety associated with chronic pain. Lavender oil has been shown to effectively manage anxiety in clinical trials, making it a beneficial option for those experiencing distress from arthritis symptoms. Aromatherapy may promote relaxation and comfort, enhancing overall well-being alongside traditional treatments for arthritis.
4. Basil
Basil oil, widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, has emerged as a potential natural remedy for reducing joint inflammation associated with arthritis. Basil contains essential oils, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, the active compounds containing anti-inflammatory properties, which could potentially aid in helping inflammation and reduce swelling from conditions like arthritis
A 2024 study explored the effectiveness of topical basil oil compared to diclofenac gel for treating knee osteoarthritis. The study revealed that both treatments led to significant improvements in knee pain, mobility, and joint function, with no notable differences between the two treatments. Researchers concluded that basil oil could serve as an alternative treatment for knee osteoarthritis, providing similar benefits to diclofenac gel.
5. Vanilla
While mainly known for its aromatic scent, vanilla oil may offer relaxation benefits for arthritis patients. The Arthritis Foundation recommends vanilla oil, citing a Columbia University Medical Center study. In this study, participants who inhaled vanilla while undergoing stress tests exhibited more stable heart rates and blood pressure than those in an unscented environment, suggesting it can promote relaxation. Aromatherapy, which includes using essential oils like vanilla, can potentially help in reducing stress and promoting comfort.
6. Myrrh
Myrrh oil has anti-inflammatory properties and is often combined with other essential oils for arthritis. Animal studies suggest that frankincense and myrrh together effectively treat inflammatory diseases, reducing joint inflammation. A study in Scientific Reports showed that a combination of frankincense and myrrh extracts significantly reduced pain and improved physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis compared to a placebo. Myrrh oil contains compounds that may temporarily relieve pain and it may also block your body’s production of inflammatory chemicals that lead to swelling and pain.
Myrrh is a powerful antioxidant, a compound that combats oxidative damage. Some studies suggest that myrrh oil extracts can significantly reduce pain from headaches, sore muscles, and sore backs. While research on myrrh oil alone for arthritis is inconclusive, these findings indicate potential benefits when used in combination with other treatments.
7. Jasmine
Jasmine oil, traditionally valued for its soothing properties, may aid relaxation and pain management in arthritis, though direct human studies are inconclusive. Preclinical research suggests its potential anti-inflammatory effects. A study on rats with induced arthritis showed that Jasminum grandiflorum extract had significant anti-inflammatory activity, indicating possible benefits for chronic inflammatory disorders such as arthritis.
A human study on Jasminum sambac gel using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale and Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Index, showed that it found it effective in relieving musculoskeletal injury pain and inflammation. While initial trials showed promise, more clinical trials are needed to determine jasmine oil’s efficacy, safety and effectiveness in relieving arthritis symptoms.
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8. Ginger
Ginger essential oil is recognized for its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective oil for managing arthritis symptoms. It’s known to alleviate joint swelling and pain by acting on vanilloid receptors in sensory nerve endings, acting not only as a natural painkiller but rapid relief from inflammation. A study conducted by the University of Miami found that ginger extract could serve as a substitute for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In this trial involving 247 patients with knee osteoarthritis, those treated with concentrated ginger extract experienced a 40% reduction in pain and stiffness compared to the placebo group.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric, particularly its active compound curcumin, contains anti-inflammatory benefits, potentially aiding in the alleviation and help with sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A Japanese study revealed that curcumin significantly reduced inflammation by affecting interleukin (IL)-6, an inflammatory cytokine involved in RA. Research suggests regular turmeric consumption may combat RA development.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found curcumin and Curcuma longa extract safe and effective in reducing symptoms and inflammation across various arthritis types, including RA and osteoarthritis with efficacy comparable to NSAIDs. While curcumin supplements show promise, current evidence supporting turmeric essential oil for arthritis is inconclusive and mainly based on animal studies. More research is needed to assess the safety and effectiveness of turmeric essential oil in humans.
10. Frankincense
Frankincense oil may help alleviate arthritis symptoms by inhibiting inflammatory molecules and preventing cartilage breakdown. While direct human studies on frankincense oil are limited, research on Boswellia serrata resin indicates its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in conditions like rheumatism.
A review noted that Boswellia serrata extracts inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, reducing inflammation. Additionally, some studies have shown that frankincense extract can decrease joint swelling and pain. However, clinical research is currently inconclusive and more research is needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of frankincense oil for arthritis treatment.
11. Green Apple
While research is inconclusive, green apple essential oil’s pleasant aroma may assist with overall well-being for those with arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation suggests that, due to its potential to relieve headache pain, green apple oil might offer similar relief for joint pain. However, it is advisable to consult a health professional for professional medical advice and treatment when pursuing alternative medicines.
12. Eucalyptus
Studies show eucalyptus oil can reduce pain and improve mood in individuals with arthritis. A clinical trial found that inhaling eucalyptus oil significantly reduced pain and blood pressure in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. The study had participants inhale 1 mL of eucalyptus oil for 5 minutes, 3 times a day, for one month. After the second week, pain severity was significantly lower in the eucalyptus group compared to the control group.
Eucalyptus oil possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and may improve circulation. Combining essential oils like eucalyptus, marjoram, lavender, rosemary, and peppermint may further relieve arthritis pain. Inhaling eucalyptus oil, or topically applying it diluted, may reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
13. Bergamot
Bergamot oil is known for its calming effects and potential to manage pain perception. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate arthritis pain, making it an effective essential oil for relief. Research indicates that bergamot contains compounds like linalool and carvacrol, which may provide analgesic effects. Rosemary oil may help reduce arthritis pain by numbing nerves. A review of essential oil therapy for rheumatic diseases found rosemary oil effective in reducing symptoms.
14. Rosemary
Research has found that rosemary oil can help numb nerves and may reduce arthritis pain. For example, a systematic review examined the role of essential oil therapy in patients with rheumatic diseases, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A study on aromatherapy with lavender, marjoram, eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint showed significant decreases in both pain and depression levels in arthritis patients. Rosemary oil may reduce tissue inflammation and ease pain.
Dilution Essential Oils for Arthritis
For safe topical application of essential oils for arthritis, dilute them with carrier oils. Options include moisturizing coconut oil, anti-inflammatory olive oil, easily absorbed jojoba oil, antioxidant-rich grapeseed oil, soothing almond oil, vitamin E-packed argan oil, and evening primrose oil, which may reduce inflammation.
Application
There are two main ways you can use essential oils: Either inhaled, in aromatherapy, or applied topically after dilution with a carrier oil. Oils such as eucalyptus, ginger, turmeric, frankincense, and orange can be inhaled or applied topically after dilution with a carrier oil. Aromatherapy, using oils like lavender, may also promote relaxation and ease pain. Always consult your doctor before use and test for skin sensitivity.
Precautions to take
Essential oils may help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms like pain and inflammation, but are not a replacement for traditional treatments. Dilute with a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, or olive oil and perform a patch test before applying topically. As always, you should consult your doctor before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have prior health conditions.
In Conclusion
Arthritis affects 53 to 60 million adults in the U.S., encompassing over 100 rheumatic diseases. Osteoarthritis results from cartilage wear, while rheumatoid arthritis stems from autoimmune dysfunction. Essential oils like ginger, turmeric, frankincense, and lavender may provide complementary relief for arthritis symptoms. Always consult healthcare professionals before use.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
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