Many cultures have long used herbal medicines to treat a variety of problems, including pain. Some traditional healers use essential oils for back pain. There is a small amount of evidence to suggest that essential oils may be effective, but the science is inconclusive.
A 2022 research paper discussing essential oils and neuropathic pain found that most of the studies on the topic are poorly designed or use animal models, so even promising studies on essential oils are not conclusive evidence of their effectiveness.
At present, there is no evidence that essential oils are an effective alternative to standard treatments. The lack of evidence does not mean that the oils are ineffective, but it does mean that more research is needed.
Like any supplement or medication, essential oils can cause side effects, and studies have not proven them to be safer than prescription medications.
In this article, we’ll explain whether essential oils can help with back pain, how to use them, and any possible risks.
While research suggests that essential oils may have health benefits, it’s important to remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not monitor or regulate the purity or quality of these oils. You should consult with a medical professional before using essential oils and research the quality of specific brands of products. It’s also important to always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
There is insufficient scientific evidence that essential oils are effective for lower back pain.
A 2016 Cochrane review found evidence that lavender essential oil may be effective for lower back pain. Although there were no serious adverse events, the quality of the evidence was moderate. More recently, a 2022 study investigated neuropathic pain, but highlighted that most studies relied on animal models and were of low quality.
Learn more about essential oils.
There’s not enough evidence to prove that essential nutrients can relieve pain, and researchers haven’t developed clear models to explain how, if at all, they might work.
Essential oils contain a variety of phytochemicals that can have different effects on the body. A 2022 paper highlights the possibility that these chemicals may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help relieve pain.
No recent well-controlled studies in animals or humans have examined the effectiveness of peppermint oil in treating lower back pain. Some studies have found that essential oils such as peppermint oil may aid in relaxation and pain control, but more research is needed.
Learn more about the benefits of peppermint oil.
A small group of studies has found some evidence that lavender essential oil may help relieve pain.
In a 2017 study, researchers tested the effects of lavender on the brains of euthanized rats. They found that lavender acts on glutamate NMDA receptors, suggesting that it may relieve anxiety and depression, which can cause or worsen pain sensations.
A 2022 paper claims that lavender has anti-inflammatory properties and is used by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners to treat headaches.
Learn more about the benefits of lavender.
Traditional herbalists may use rosemary to relieve pain and anxiety.
Anecdotally, some people use rosemary ointment as part of massage treatments or in aromatherapy preparations, but there are no well-designed, recent studies supporting the use of rosemary specifically for lower back pain.
Learn more about the benefits of rosemary.
Ginger can produce a mild burning sensation that mimics the effects of topical pain relieving ointments that contain capsaicin. A 2019 paper explains that preclinical studies suggest that ginger may have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-pain effects. However, many of these studies are older, small, and only involved non-human animals.
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Learn more about the benefits of ginger.
Because essential oils are considered supplements, there is no scientific consensus on how best to use them. Essential oils may also be used as massage oils. They are safest when diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation.
The following strategies can help you use essential oils safely.
- Start with a very small amount and gradually increase depending on how your body responds.
- If you are taking other medications, consult your doctor first.
- Use small amounts of each essential oil until you are sure they are not causing any allergies or other symptoms.
The benefits of using essential oils for lower back pain have not been established.
If essential oils are effective, they may offer the following benefits:
- Alternative treatments for people who cannot take medication or for whom medications do not provide relief
- Complementing standard treatment
- A more natural treatment for those who are nervous about taking medication
Researchers have not thoroughly tested the safety of essential oils. Some potential risks
- Avoiding standard treatments and not improving symptoms
- Drug interactions that may be dangerous or reduce the effectiveness of medically necessary medications
- Allergic reactions and skin irritation
- Side effects that may worsen underlying conditions, such as increased bleeding or changes in blood pressure
Essential oils hold promise for treating pain, especially as an adjunct to standard treatments. However, scientific evidence does not conclusively support that essential oils are safe or effective, so they should not replace standard treatments.
All medications and supplements can interact, so using essential oils while taking other medications may also not be safe.
People with chronic illnesses or who take prescription medications should consult with their doctor before trying essential oils, but studies have shown that they generally aren’t at high risk for serious side effects.
