Studies have shown that some essential oils (complex compounds extracted from plant parts) can help** symptoms of inflammation, including redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and loss of function.
9 essential oils with anti-inflammatory effects
Determining the best essential oils for inflammation is based on the results of promising scientific studies.
However, many of these studies were small and short-term, so their findings often warrant further investigation.
In addition, there is no evidence to support research that shows that any essential oil can ** specific diseases.
Consult 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.
Thyme
Thyme is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.
One study found that thyme could reduce the severity of menstrual pain, but it was not as effective as ibuprofen (ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)).
There is also evidence that thyme may be effective in reducing inflammation and infections in oral health.
Basil
Basil contains flavonoids, which are phytonutrients found in plants that can reduce chronic inflammation and help prevent related inflammatory diseases.
Systematic reviews have shown that basil can reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Notably, this review was conducted for Tulsi (also known as Holy Basil), which has been shown to have more effective medical benefits than the common culinary basil.
There is also evidence that basil extract has an anti-inflammatory effect on inflammation caused by fat cells (cells that specialize in storing fat).
Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries for chronic pain and inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger are attributed to gingerol, which is the most abundant compound in ginger.
Anti-inflammatory properties were confirmed in rat studies. The results showed how ginger injection reduced the incidence of chronic joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.
In other studies, there is evidence that ginger is as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in relieving menstrual pain.
Lilacs
Cloves are rich in eugenol, a plant compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies have shown that eugenol has anti-inflammatory properties that can inhibit the type of inflammatory enzyme that is often elevated in the body of people with certain conditions such as heart disease.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus contains properties that can be effective in reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation.
These effects have been reported in people who inhale eucalyptus preparations after total knee replacement surgery.
Participants who inhaled eucalyptus essential oil for 30 minutes for three consecutive days reported reduced pain and lower blood pressure compared to the control group.
Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol and menthol, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties.
In one study, menthol and mentholone reduced the number of white blood cells (white blood cells that cause inflammation in a wound or injury site).
The cooling effect of these substances reduces blood flow and the number of white blood cells, reducing the effects of inflammation.
Frankincense
Boswellia (from the genus Boswellia) may have anti-inflammatory properties that may be effective in reducing joint inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
Studies have shown that frankincense prevents the release of leukotrienes, compounds that promote inflammation by activating inflammatory cells (neutrophils) and the production of molecules that trigger inflammation (cytokines).
Lavender
Lavender is believed to have many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies have shown that lavender oil is a potent inhibitor of four pro-inflammatory cytokines (inflammatory molecules).
In one study, researchers reported that collecting lavender flowers from the early flowering period was associated with anti-inflammatory effects.
Turmeric
Turmeric oil contains curcuminoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammatory responses.
There is evidence that turmerone is effective in reducing inflammatory mediators (chemicals that promote the inflammatory response).
This may benefit inflammatory diseases such as:
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Arthritis. Psoriasis.
Atherosclerosis.
COVID. How to use essential oils** inflammation
The correct way to use essential oils** for inflammation varies depending on the substance used.
Follow the guidelines regarding dosage and duration for best results.
Essential oils are usually used in very small amounts, just a few drops in one of the following ways.
Inhalation
Inhaling essential oils can help you experience the effects of the aroma of essential oils.
You can achieve this in the following ways:
1) Use essential oils in a diffuser (a device that disperses tiny oil particles in the air for inhalation).
2) Place a drop on your hand and inhale.
3) Use as a personal perfume.
4) Place your head on a bowl of hot water with a few drops of essential oil. Cover your head with a towel to preserve the aroma.
5) Take a deep breath of the aroma in the bottle.
6) Place a few drops of essential oil onto a cotton ball and inhale the aroma.
2. Smear
Topical application of essential oils allows the essential oils to be absorbed directly into the desired area.
When using this method, the safest way is to dilute the oil with a base oil such as coconut oil to reduce the risk of irritation.
Methods for applying essential oils to ** include:
1) Massage the oil onto **.
2) Apply the oil to the target area and wipe it off.
3) Add the oil to the lotion or moisturizer that you apply to the **.
4) Use a roll-on bottle to apply the essential oil.
Ingestion
Intake is only suitable for certain essential oils, and if you are using essential oils that are safe for human consumption, you can use one of the following methods to take them:
1) Add essential oils to a glass of water, smoothie, or other beverage.
2) Pack it into a vegetarian capsule.
3) Place a drop of essential oil under your tongue.
Risks of using essential oils
Although they are natural**, it is important to understand the health and safety risks of using essential oils.
These highly concentrated plant substances should be used sparingly to protect yourself and your loved ones from ill effects.
Before using essential oils, the American College of Health Sciences (ACHS) recommends taking the following precautions to ensure the safe use of essential oils.
Do not use photosensitive oil in the sun
Certain photosensitizing or phototoxic essential oils contain a substance called furanocoumarins.
When these essential oils are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light or sunlight, they can cause severe burns and increase the risk of **cancer at the site of use.
When in the sun, avoid body lotions and creams that contain these ingredients.
When using homemade (DIY) products, make sure your essential oils meet the maximum dilution percentage levels required by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA).
If you are unsure about the photosensitivity of essential oils in topical products, avoid exposure to ultraviolet light or direct sunlight after use.
Take precautions depending on how you apply
Depending on how you prefer to use essential oils, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. These are outlined in the application methods below.
Use topically
*Sensitivity to essential oils varies from person to person.
For direct** application, use a patch test to identify potential irritation.
If you have a reaction, apply a carrier oil or whole milk to remove the product and allow your ** to recover.
When using essential oils, ACHS recommends checking the following recommended guidelines:
1) Daily dosage.
2) Dilution ratio.
3) Time. Avoid applying essential oils to sensitive areas such as eyes, nose, ears or breaks**.
Inhalation
While inhalation is the safest way to use essential oils, it is also a quick and effective way to get essential oils into the bloodstream.
Follow these safety precautions when inhaling essential oils:
1) Diffuse in a well-ventilated area.
2) Diffuse the fragrance every 30 minutes and take regular breaks.
If pets don't like smells, make sure they have a way to get out of the room and into an unaffected area.
Follow the guidelines for diluting inhaled essential oils.
Oral and oral administration
Only a few essential oils are suitable for oral consumption.
If you take essential oils orally, make sure to pay attention to the correct dosage, concentration, and duration guidelines when taking them.
The toxicity or poisoning of essential oils is often associated with being much higher than the ** or recommended daily dose of the essential oils used.
To avoid this problem, oral administration of essential oils should only be performed by people who are clinically trained and experienced.
Cooking
Some essential oils can be used in small amounts in cooking.
Before doing so, check the precautions and contraindications for each essential oil used, and then dilute the oil with a base oil such as coconut or olive oil.
Check the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list for a list of essential oils that can be used in food.
Follow contraindications and general safety recommendations
Be aware of potential interactions between essential oils and prescription medications and supplements.
This effect may cause adverse reactions or alter the effectiveness of certain medications.
Certain populations, such as children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems or allergies, may be more sensitive to essential oils.
Some essential oils can be dangerous for pets. Take precautions to protect your family from inhaling essential oils that can cause harmful reactions.
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Summary
Essential oils are naturally made from plant parts**.
Each has its own profile, so the situation varies from plant to plant.
There may also be differences between two parts of the same plant.
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for inflammatory symptoms.
This is your body's normal immune response.
It protects your body from threats such as wounds and bacteria.
While essential oils may bring some effects, they can also pose a risk of adverse effects.
Some may react to medications or other**.
Due to their lack of federal regulation, factors such as purity and strength may vary.
You can reduce your risk by using essential oils in the recommended dosage, intensity, and time.
While you may enjoy the effects of essential oils, they should not replace medical advice or prescription**.