Studies have shown that some essential oils (complex compounds extracted from plant parts) can help treat symptoms of inflammation, such as redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function.
In this article, we will discuss essential oils known to be effective in reducing inflammation, as well as how to use these products and reduce side effects.
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Important Notice Regarding the Use of Essential Oils
While essential oils can have certain health benefits, they should not be used in place of recommended treatments from a healthcare professional. Using essential oils without proper caution and knowledge can lead to additional problems.
9 Essential Oils with Anti-Inflammatory Effects
The determination of which essential oils are most effective for inflammation is based on the results of promising scientific studies. However, many of these studies are small and short-term, so the findings require further investigation. Additionally, there are no evidence-based studies that show that essential oils can cure any specific illness.
Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the cause of the inflammation and whether essential oils are safe to use.
Scientific evidence supports the use of the following essential oils for inflammation:
time
Thyme is thought to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain relieving) properties. One study found that thyme reduced the severity of menstrual cramps, although not as effectively as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin).
There is also evidence that thyme is an effective oral health agent in reducing inflammation and infection.
basil
Basil contains flavonoids, phytonutrients found in plants that may reduce chronic inflammation and help prevent related inflammatory diseases. A systematic review has shown that basil may reduce inflammation in the airways. It’s important to note that this review was done on tulsi, also known as holy basil, which has been shown to have stronger medical benefits than common culinary basil.
There is also evidence that basil extract has an anti-inflammatory effect against inflammation caused by adipocytes (cells specialized for storing fat).
Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries to treat chronic pain and inflammation, and its anti-inflammatory properties are thought to be due to gingerol, the most abundant compound in ginger.
Experiments on rats confirmed its anti-inflammatory effects. The results showed how ginger injections could reduce the incidence of chronic arthritis in rheumatoid arthritis. Other studies have found evidence that ginger may be as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in relieving menstrual pain.
cloves
Cloves are high in eugenol, a plant compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
Research has shown that eugenol has anti-inflammatory properties and may inhibit a type of inflammatory enzyme that is common in people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease.
eucalyptus
Eucalyptus has properties that effectively reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. These effects have been reported in people who inhaled eucalyptus preparations after total knee replacement surgery. Participants who inhaled eucalyptus essential oil for 30 minutes for three days reported reduced pain and lower blood pressure compared to the control group.
peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol and menthone, which have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. In one study, menthol and menthone reduced the number of leukocytes (white blood cells that contribute to inflammation at the site of a wound or injury). The cooling effect of these substances reduced blood flow and the amount of white blood cells, reducing the effects of inflammation.
frankincense
Frankincense (Frankincense genus) Boswellia) may have anti-inflammatory properties that are effective in reducing joint inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
Research has shown that frankincense prevents the release of leukotrienes, compounds that promote inflammation by activating inflammatory cells (neutrophils) and the production of molecules that cause inflammation (cytokines).
lavender
Lavender is thought to have many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that lavender oil is a powerful inhibitor of four pro-inflammatory cytokines (inflammatory molecules). In one study, researchers reported that collecting lavender flowers early in the flowering season was associated with anti-inflammatory effects.
turmeric
Turmeric oil contains turmerones, which are believed to have the effect of reducing inflammatory responses.
There is evidence that turmerone effectively reduces inflammatory mediators (chemicals that contribute to the inflammatory response), which may benefit inflammatory diseases such as:
When to seek emergency treatment
Inflammation accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms may indicate a dangerous condition such as cellulitis (skin infection) or pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs).
Seek emergency medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Sudden, unexplained swelling in one limb
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting blood
- Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction)
- Swelling accompanied by fever
- The skin over the swollen area suddenly becomes red and warm to the touch
- Enlarged liver or heart due to existing problems
- Localized swelling that does not improve after several days
How to Use Essential Oils for Inflammation
The correct way to use essential oils for inflammation depends on the substance you use. Follow the guidelines on dosage and duration for best results.
Essential oils are typically used in very small amounts, just a few drops, in one of the ways outlined below.
Inhalation
Inhaling essential oils allows you to experience the benefits of the oil’s aroma. This effect can be achieved in the following ways:
- Use essential oils in a diffuser, a device that spreads microscopic oil particles into the air for inhalation.
- Put a drop in your hand and inhale.
- Use as a personal fragrance.
- Place your head over a bowl of warm water with a few drops of essential oil in it, then cover your head with a towel to retain the scent.
- Take a deep breath and enjoy the aroma wafting from the bottle.
- Place a few drops of essential oil on a cotton ball and inhale the scent.
topic
When essential oils are applied topically, the oil is absorbed directly into the desired area of skin. If you use this method, it is safest to dilute the oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, to reduce the risk of irritation. Methods for applying essential oils to the skin include:
- Massage the essential oils into your skin.
- Apply oil to affected areas and rub in.
- Add the oil to lotions and moisturizers that you apply to your skin.
- Use a rollerball bottle to apply essential oils.
intake
Only some essential oils are suitable for ingestion. If you are using an essential oil that is safe for human consumption, you can ingest it in one of two ways:
- Add essential oils to a glass of water, a smoothie, or any other beverage.
- Take in veggie capsule form.
- Place a drop of essential oil under your tongue.
Risks associated with using essential oils
Even though they are naturally derived, it is important to understand that there are health and safety risks associated with using essential oils, and these highly concentrated plant substances should be used with caution to protect yourself and your loved ones from adverse effects.
Before using essential oils, the American College of Health Sciences (ACHS) recommends taking the following precautions to use essential oils safely:
Do not use photosensitive oils in sunlight
Certain photosensitive or phototoxic essential oils contain substances called furocoumarins. When these essential oils are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light or sunlight, they can cause severe burns where applied and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Avoid using body lotions or creams that contain these ingredients when in the sun, and if you use DIY products, make sure the essential oils are within the maximum dilution levels set by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA).
If you are unsure about the photosensitivity of the essential oils in your topical product, avoid exposure to UV light or direct sunlight after application.
Precautions depending on application method
Depending on your preferred method of applying essential oils, there are a few precautions to keep in mind, which are outlined for each application method below.
Topical use
Everyone’s skin sensitivity to essential oils varies. If applying directly to the skin, perform a patch test to determine potential irritation. If you have a reaction, apply a base oil or full fat milk to remove the product and allow the skin to heal.
When using essential oils, ACHS recommends reviewing the following recommended guidelines:
- Daily Intake
- Dilution rate
- interval
Do not apply essential oils to sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, ears or broken skin.
Inhalation
Inhalation is the safest way to administer essential oils, but it is also a fast and effective way to get essential oils into your bloodstream. When inhaling essential oils, follow these safety precautions:
- Diffuse in a well-ventilated area.
- Spread it out in 30 minute intervals and take regular breaks.
- If your pet dislikes the scent, make sure they have a way to get outside the room and to an area where they won’t be affected by the scent.
- Follow guidelines for diluting essential oils for inhalation.
Oral/internal administration
Only a few essential oils are suitable for oral administration, and if you choose to take essential oils orally, be sure to follow the guidelines for appropriate dosage, concentration, and duration.
Toxicity and intoxication from essential oils are often associated with doses of the essential oils used that are much higher than the therapeutic dose or recommended daily intake. To avoid this problem, oral ingestion of essential oils should only be performed by individuals with training and experience in clinical aromatherapy.
Addiction Management Help
Essential oils can cause dangerous reactions if misused or swallowed. To quickly determine if poisoning is possible, visit the webPOISONCONTROL website or contact a poison control center. Call us at 800-222-1222.
cooking
Some essential oils can be used in cooking in small amounts. Before doing this, be sure to check the cautions and contraindications for each essential oil you use and dilute the oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil. For a list of essential oils that can be used in food, check the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list.
Observe contraindications and general safety recommendations
Be aware of potential interactions between essential oils and prescription medications and supplements, which may cause side effects or change how some medications work.
Certain groups of people, such as children, the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and those with allergies, may be more sensitive to the side effects of essential oils. Some essential oils may be dangerous for pets. Take care and protect your family from inhaling essential oils that may cause adverse reactions.
summary
Essential oils are natural remedies made from parts of plants. Each essential oil has its own unique properties, meaning that different plants have different effects. Two parts of the same plant may have different effects.
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years to treat symptoms of inflammation, which is the body’s normal immune response and protects the body from threats such as wounds and bacteria.
While essential oils may provide some benefits, they also carry the risk of side effects. Some essential oils may react with medications or other treatments. Essential oils are not federally regulated, so purity, strength, and other factors may vary.
Using essential oils at the recommended doses, concentrations, and duration can help reduce your risk. While you may find essential oils helpful, they are not a substitute for medical advice or prescribed treatment.
