10 best herbal essential oils for inflammation

Herbal essential oils for inflammation are a natural and effective way to reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort associated with inflammatory conditions.

These potent oils are extracted from plants, herbs, and flowers that have been used for centuries to promote healing and relaxation. Examples of herbal essential oils that help with inflammation include turmeric oil, ginger oil, and lavender oil.

When used topically or in aromatherapy, these oils can help reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and alleviate symptoms such as pain and stiffness, improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and gout.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for inflammation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Crocus sativus

Saffron essential oils helps with inflammation because of its unique chemical composition, which contains a high concentration of crocin and saffranal.

These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and ease pain in the body.

When applied topically or inhaled, saffron oil can work to calm irritated tissues and reduce oxidative stress, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and skin irritations.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in saffron essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Anti-inflammatory compounds: Saffron essential oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds like crocin, crocetin, and safranal, which help reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and blocking the production of prostaglandins.
• Antioxidant activity: Saffron essential oil exhibits potent antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.
• Pain relief properties: The essential oil's active compounds have been shown to have analgesic and anti-nociceptive effects, providing relief from pain associated with inflammation.

The list below shows the primary parts of saffron used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Roots: Saffron roots have been traditionally used to create a warm, soothing oil that helps reduce inflammation and discomfort in joints and muscles.
• Barks: The barks of the saffron plant contain flavonoids and terpenes that help reduce inflammation and pain, making them an effective ingredient in essential oils for arthritis relief.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saffron for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh crocus sativus flowers carefully avoiding any contamination from pesticides or other chemicals.
2. Dry the harvested flowers using air circulation and low heat for 7-10 days to preserve their potency.
3. Steam distill the dried flowers using a steam distillation apparatus for 2-3 hours to extract essential oils.
4. Filter the resulting distillate through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove any impurities and sediment.
5. Store the extracted essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature for up to 6 months.

2. Curcuma longa

Turmeric essential oils helps with inflammation because of its potent compound, curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

When absorbed into the skin or inhaled, it targets the body's inflammatory pathways, reducing swelling and pain. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that contribute to inflammation.

As a result, turmeric essential oils have been shown to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other forms of inflammation-related discomfort, promoting overall wellness and relaxation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Cyclooxygenase (cox) inhibition: Turmeric essential oil contains curcuminoids, which have been shown to inhibit COX enzymes, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins and thromboxanes, leading to decreased inflammation.
• Antioxidant properties: Turmeric essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation by reducing lipid peroxidation and cell damage.
• Anti-inflammatory cytokine modulation: Turmeric essential oil has been shown to modulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10), which helps reduce inflammation and promote a balanced immune response.

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are the underground stems that store nutrients and are rich in curcuminoids, which are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Roots: Turmeric roots contain a higher concentration of volatile oils, including sesquiterpenes, which have been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory activity.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh curcuma longa rhizomes at dawn when their fragrance is most potent weighing approximately 100 grams.
2. Wash the harvested rhizomes gently with filtered water and mild dish soap removing any dirt or debris.
3. Slice the washed rhizomes thinly into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar covered with a paper towel overnight allowing for steam distillation.
4. Heat the mixture of sliced rhizomes and paper towel slowly over low heat on the stovetop at 100 degrees celsius for 2 hours collecting the essential oil produced.
5. Allow the collected essential oil to cool and separate from any impurities before transferring it to dark glass bottles for storage and use within a year.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory compounds, including gingerols and shogaols.

These natural chemicals have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory hormones and reduce pain and swelling. The oils' bioactive compounds also exhibit antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation.

By targeting multiple pathways, herbal ginger essential oils provide a holistic approach to managing inflammation, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis, muscle soreness, and joint pain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Analgesic and anti-inflammatory compounds: Ginger essential oil contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce pain and swelling caused by inflammation.
• Antioxidant activity: Ginger essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that contribute to inflammation, reducing oxidative stress and promoting overall health.
• Cyclooxygenase (cox) inhibition: Ginger essential oil inhibits the production of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins that cause pain, swelling, and inflammation.

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Rhyzomes: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which provide potent relief from pain and swelling associated with inflammatory conditions.
• Roots: Used to extract essential oils containing gingerols, which have been shown to inhibit prostaglandins and reduce inflammation and pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh ginger roots weighing approximately 500 grams.
2. Wash the ginger roots thoroughly under cold running water then dry them completely.
3. Slice the ginger roots into thin pieces of about one centimeter thickness and weigh.
4. Combine sliced ginger roots with 200 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil and allow it to steep for at least four hours.
5. Filter the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to separate the essential oils from the solids and store.

4. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense essential oils helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory compounds, including boswellic acids and terpenes.

These natural chemicals have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, reducing swelling and pain in the body. Additionally, frankincense oil has been found to stimulate the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which help to alleviate inflammation and promote healing.

Its topical application can be particularly effective in relieving joint pain and reducing inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in frankincense essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Anti-inflammatory compound boswellic acid: Boswellic acid has been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing swelling and pain.
• Oleoresin extraction: The oleoresin extract from frankincense resin contains anti-inflammatory compounds that have been found to suppress inflammation by blocking the action of pro-inflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids.
• Antioxidant properties: Frankincense essential oil has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic inflammation, thereby protecting tissues from damage caused by free radicals.

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Barks: Frankincense barks contain high amounts of boswellic acids, which are known to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of the frankincense plant have been traditionally used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory conditions due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for inflammation.

1. Harvest boswellia serrata roots and chop them into small pieces for extraction.
2. Mix chopped root pieces with carrier oil and heat for infusion preparation.
3. Filter and decant infused oil to separate plant material from essential oils.
4. Distill extracted oils using steam distillation method for purification.
5. Bottle and store final essential oil product for future use.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil's primary active compound, linalool, has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body, reducing swelling and pain associated with inflammation.

Additionally, English lavender essential oil contains flavonoids, which have been found to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, further enhancing its ability to alleviate inflammation and promote relaxation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Antioxidant activity: Lavender oil's antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation by neutralizing free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory compounds: The oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and reduce swelling in affected areas.
• Vasodilatory properties: Lavender oil's vasodilatory effects can help improve blood flow to injured areas, reducing inflammation by increasing oxygenation and nutrient delivery to damaged tissues.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Roots: The roots of the English lavender plant are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties and are often used to treat joint pain and swelling.
• Buds: The buds of the English lavender plant contain high concentrations of linalool, a natural analgesic that helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom for optimal oil production.
2. Wash the harvested material with distilled water to remove impurities and debris.
3. Dry the cleaned material using a controlled temperature and humidity environment for several days.
4. Steam distill the dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in a stainless steel still with a 1:10 flower-to-water ratio for 2 hours.
5. Collect the essential oil that separates from the water mixture as it cools, filter it through a paper filter or coffee filter to remove any impurities.

6. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which are derived from its active compounds like menthol and methyl salicylate.

When applied topically or inhaled, these compounds work to reduce swelling and ease pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause inflammation. Additionally, peppermint oil's cooling sensation can help numb affected areas, providing fast and effective relief from inflammatory discomfort.

Its natural anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular remedy for treating conditions like arthritis, muscle soreness, and joint pain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Cooling and anti-inflammatory compounds: Peppermint essential oil contains compounds like menthol, menthone, and limonene that have a cooling effect on the skin, reducing heat and pain associated with inflammation.
• Antioxidant activity: The antioxidants present in peppermint essential oil, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, help neutralize free radicals that can contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.
• Analgesic and anti-pyretic properties: Peppermint essential oil's analgesic properties help alleviate pain associated with inflammation, while its anti-pyretic properties reduce fever and alleviate discomfort caused by inflammatory conditions.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Roots: The roots of the peppermint plant are used because they contain a high concentration of menthol, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: The barks of the peppermint plant are used due to their rich content of volatile oils, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from your garden or purchase from a reputable supplier weighing approximately 100 grams.
2. Wash the harvested peppermint leaves thoroughly in cold running water to remove dirt and debris taking about 10 minutes.
3. Dry the washed peppermint leaves using a food dehydrator set at 55°c for 12 hours or air dry them slowly indoors for several days.
4. Steam distill the dried peppermint leaves using a clevenger apparatus with a ratio of 1:5 to water and collect the essential oil in glass containers.
5. Filter the collected essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any impurities and store it in dark glass bottles away from direct sunlight.

7. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol.

These active ingredients work by reducing prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and swelling. Additionally, thyme oil's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to chronic inflammation.

When inhaled or applied topically, thyme essential oil can provide fast and effective relief from inflammation-related conditions such as arthritis, muscle soreness, and skin irritations.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Antioxidant activity: Herbal thyme essential oil contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.
• Cytotoxic effect: Thyme oil has been shown to have a cytotoxic effect on inflamed cells, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as pain and swelling.
• Anti-inflammatory compound: Thyme essential oil contains compounds like thymol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and relieve conditions such as arthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: Contain phenolic compounds and volatile oils that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for inflammation.

1. Harvest high-quality thymus vulgaris leaves at dawn or late afternoon when aromatic compounds peak.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator at 35°c for 24 hours or air-drying method for 7 days.
3. Combine 20 grams of dried thymus vulagris leaves with 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil in a glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily, allowing the plant compounds to infuse into the oil.
5. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids, yielding approximately 100 milliliters of thymus vulagris essential oil.

8. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary essential oils helps with inflammation because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as camphor and bornyl acetate, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing swelling and pain in affected areas.

Additionally, rosemary essential oil has been found to possess chemo-preventive and immunomodulatory activities, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating inflammation and promoting overall health and well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Antioxidant properties: Rosemary essential oil contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by chronic conditions such as arthritis.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Rosemary essential oil's active compounds, including camphor and borneol, inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing swelling and pain associated with inflammation.
• Analgesic and pain-relieving properties: Rosemary essential oil has been shown to have analgesic effects by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain, providing relief from headaches, muscle soreness, and other inflammatory-related pains.

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Roots: Rosemary roots are often used in traditional medicine due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as camphor and bornyl acetate, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems of rosemary contain a significant amount of rosmarinic acid, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning after the dew has dried.
2. Wash the harvested herbs gently with clean water and then pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Steam-distill 200g of the prepared herb mixture for 30 minutes using a traditional distillation apparatus.
4. Collect the essential oil that separates from the water condensate and transfer it to a glass bottle.
5. Store the extracted essential oil in an airtight container away from direct sunlight for up to 6 months.

9. Origanum vulgare

Wild marjoram essential oils helps with inflammation because of its rich antioxidant properties, which combat free radicals that contribute to chronic inflammation.

Its anti-inflammatory compounds, such as beta-caryophyllene and bornyl acetate, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain by inhibiting prostaglandins and leukotrienes production.

Additionally, wild marjoram's natural analgesic properties can help ease discomfort and promote relaxation, making it a valuable natural remedy for soothing joint pain, headaches, and other inflammatory conditions.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild marjoram essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Analgesic and anti-inflammatory compounds: Wild marjoram essential oil contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Antioxidant activity: The oil's high antioxidant activity helps to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation, thus reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health.
• Cholinergic properties: Wild marjoram essential oil has been found to increase acetylcholine levels in the body, which can help to reduce muscle spasms, relax the nervous system, and alleviate pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Roots: The roots of the wild marjoram plant contain triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can be extracted to create an oil that helps to reduce swelling and pain.
• Barks: The barks of the wild marjoram plant are rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making them effective for treating inflammation and promoting healing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh origanum vulgare leaves at dawn when the plant's aroma is most potent, selecting only healthy and pest-free foliage.
2. Dry the harvested leaves by spreading them thinly on paper towels or clean cloth for 24 hours in a warm dry room.
3. Crush dried origanum vulgare leaves into a fine powder using mortar and pestle, taking care not to generate excessive heat.
4. Steep 10 grams of crushed origanum vulgare leaves in 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond or coconut oil for 2 weeks at room temperature.
5. Filter the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discarding solids and storing the final product in a dark glass container.

10. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon essential oils helps with inflammation because of its unique composition, which contains high levels of cinnamaldehyde.

This active compound has potent anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce swelling and pain by blocking pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.

Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's natural antioxidants and sesquiterpenes further enhance its ability to combat inflammation, making it a valuable addition to topical blends and aromatherapy practices for alleviating joint pain, muscle soreness, and other inflammatory conditions.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ceylon cinnamon essential oils that aid with inflammation.

• Anti-inflammatory compounds: Herbal Ceylon cinnamon essential oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and molecules.
• Cyclooxygenase (cox) inhibition: The essential oil's active compounds inhibit COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation.
• Antioxidant activity: Herbal Ceylon cinnamon essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress, both of which can contribute to chronic inflammation.

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make essential oils for inflammation.

• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, cinnamon roots are extracted to create a natural pain reliever.
• Barks: The outer layers of cinnamon barks contain volatile oils with analgesic and antipyretic properties, making them effective against inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for inflammation.

1. Harvest fresh cinnamomum verum bark in early morning to ensure optimal potency and aroma.
2. Clean and dry the harvested bark thoroughly to remove dirt and excess moisture.
3. Steam distill the dried cinnamomum verum bark using a clevenger apparatus at 100°c for 4 hours.
4. Combine the obtained essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a ratio of 1:2 and stir well.
5. Store the final mixture in dark glass bottles at room temperature for up to 6 months, shaking occasionally.

How to best treat inflammation with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat inflammation with herbal essential oils is by combining them with a carrier oil and applying topically to affected areas.

Geranium oil reduces pain and swelling, while frankincense oil targets chronic inflammation. Lavender oil soothes and calms the skin, while peppermint oil cools and numbs.

Blend these oils in a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and massage into the affected area for effective relief from inflammation.

What ailments similar to inflammation are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to inflammation that are treated with herbal essential oils are pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

Oils like Wintergreen, Peppermint, and Ginger help to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, Frankincense and Helichrysum oils can aid in reducing scar tissue and promoting healing.

These natural remedies can be used topically or blended with carrier oils for a soothing and calming effect on the skin.