Essential oils are magic in a bottle! The original pain relief! Most man-made, synthetic medications are based on natural compounds found in essential oils. Man makes what nature naturally provides - only nature has NO side effects!
Essential oils have been a massive part of my fibro-fighting journey. I often get asked which oils I recommend using for fibromyalgia. So here are the - in my opinion - best oils for fibro and the why's!
Frankincense is shown to decrease muscle pain and supports the healing of nerve tissue. The pure therapeutic-grade essential oil can be applied topically to the area of pain. Mix 3 drops of frankincense with a carrier oil, then massage into the muscles for fast-acting pain relief and anti-inflammatory.
Pure Frankincense can be taken internally - best to use veggie caps for this.
Studies show that frankincense has immune-enhancing properties, activating T-cells.
You can also use Frankincense in your bath to
promote relaxation and pain relief. Just add a
few drops to some Epsom salts.
You can read more benefits of Frankincense here.
Turmeric is a spice you may be familiar with. The oil is far more potent than the powder you cook with! Turmeric contains compounds that reduce inflammation and support healthy muscles and nerves.
Like Frankincense, Pure therapeutic-grade turmeric can be applied topically with a carrier oil and massaged into the joint or inflamed area.
It can also be taken internally either by adding it to food,
taken in a veggie capsule or added to hot water to
help settle IBS.
Turmeric has also been shown to relieve
depression and anxiety. You can add turmeric to
pressure points with a carrier oil or diffuse in your
home.
Peppermint is a magical oil that all fibro fighters should own! There are many benefits! Peppermint is an oil that is used daily in my home, mainly as toothpaste, but other benefits include...
A natural remedy for IBS, peppermint essential oil helps to relax muscles in the intestines, reduce gas and bloating. You can apply it topically - mixed with a carrier oil and massaged into the abdomen. Diffuse and inhale or take it internally - ensure you use an oil that is suitable for ingestion!
Peppermint is a natural energy booster, invigorating and stimulating.It can help fight chronic fatigue and improve concentration. For these benefits you can apply topically to your wrists and back of your neck or diffuse and inhale!
The best use of peppermint oil for fibromyalgia has to be its ability to relax, and reduce pain in the muscles! Simply mix with a carrier oil then massage it into the muscles for almost instant relief! You can also mix with Epsom salts and add them to a bath for complete body relaxation and relief!
You can read more about peppermint oil here.
Lavender contains properties that help relieve tension and pain which is great news for fibro fighters!
A 2013 study showed taking lavender oil internally alleviated insomnia, anxiety and depression. Another study showed lavender oil reduced depression by 33% in people with PTSD!
I make my own bedtime capsules that contain lavender. They are magical and they most definitely make a difference to me getting to sleep, and quality of sleep!
You can read more on lavender oil here.
Fibromyalgia is likely to be an autoimmune disease according to research, (you can read more here).
Essential oils recommended for autoimmune disorders also have benefits for those with fibromyalgia.
Holy basil has many health properties that will benefit fibro fighters. It lessens anxiety and stress and heightens mood.
Also been shown to improve memory and cognition, insomnia and migraines!
Reduces inflammation and boosts your immune system. Just some reasons to add Holy Basil to your day!
Holy Basil is an anticoagulant and should be avoided by those with clotting disorders. It is high in Eugenol and be used with caution for those with impaired liver function.
Roman chamomile is an oil useful to those with fibromyalgia as it helps relieve some symptoms including reducing stress anxiety and depression and Improves digestion and leaky gut. Promotes relaxation and restful sleep and also relieves nausea.
Roman chamomile is not recommended during pregnancy as it is an emmenagogue which stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area. It should not be used for longer than two weeks at a time.