10 best herbal essential oils for back pain

Herbal essential oils for back pain are a natural remedy that combines the therapeutic benefits of herbs with the potency of essential oils to provide relief from back ache.

These oils help by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and improving circulation, thereby alleviating back pain. For instance, peppermint oil, lavender oil, and ginger oil have been known to provide instant relief from back pain.

By using these oils in a massage or through inhalation, individuals can experience significant improvement in their daily lives, allowing them to engage in activities without the burden of chronic back pain.

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

1. Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass essential oils helps with back pain because of its unique properties that promote relaxation, reduce inflammation, and ease muscle tension.

The citral content in lemongrass oil has a natural analgesic effect, which helps to numb the pain receptors in the back, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness. Additionally, the antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles and joints, reducing spasms and cramps that can exacerbate back pain.

As a result, lemongrass essential oil is an effective natural remedy for alleviating back pain and promoting overall well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass essential oils that aid with back pain.

• Antispasmodic property: Lemongrass essential oil helps relax muscle spasms and cramps, reducing tension and pain in the back muscles.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Lemongrass essential oil reduces inflammation, which is a common underlying cause of back pain, by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Pain-relieving property: The citral content in lemongrass essential oil has analgesic and anti-pyretic effects, making it effective in reducing pain and discomfort associated with back problems.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make essential oils for back pain.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which provide analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe back pain.
• Rhyzomes: Containing high levels of citral and geraniol, these oils have a sedative effect that can relieve muscle tension and spasms associated with back pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for back pain.

1. Harvest fresh leaves of cymbopogon citratus in the morning when they are still slightly dewy.
2. Wash the harvested leaves thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and impurities.
3. Steam distill the washed leaves using a steam distillation apparatus at atmospheric pressure.
4. Collect the resulting essential oil and filter it through a coffee filter paper or cheesecloth.
5. Store the filtered essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids for up to 6 months.

2. Helichrysum italicum

Curry plant essential oils helps with back pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can effectively reduce swelling and ease muscle tension in the back.

The oil's warming and calming effects can also help to relax tight muscles and improve circulation, reducing stiffness and discomfort.

Additionally, curry plant oil has analgesic properties that can help to numb the pain, providing quick relief from backaches.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in curry plant essential oils that aid with back pain.

• Antispasmodic property: The antispasmodic property of Curry Plant Essential Oil can help relieve muscle spasms and cramps in the back, which are common causes of back pain.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory properties of the oil can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles and joints of the back, which can contribute to chronic back pain.
• Analgesic property: The analgesic (pain-relieving) property of Curry Plant Essential Oil can help numb the sensation of pain in the back, providing temporary relief from discomfort and alleviating symptoms of back pain.

The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make essential oils for back pain.

• Roots: The roots of the curry plant contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help alleviate back pain by reducing swelling and discomfort.
• Barks: The barks of the curry plant have been traditionally used to treat muscle and joint pains, making them a good choice for essential oils targeting back pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for back pain.

1. Harvest 20g of fresh helichrysum italicum flowers from a pesticide-free environment at peak blooming time.
2. Wash the harvested flowers gently with distilled water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly within 30 minutes.
3. Dry the washed flowers in a warm place away from direct sunlight or use a food dehydrator on low setting for 6 hours.
4. Steam distill the dried helichrysum italicum flowers using a clevenger apparatus at 100°c with 200ml water for 2 hours.
5. Filter the obtained essential oil through a coffee filter paper into dark glass bottles and store in a cool place for up to 6 months.

3. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow essential oils helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The oil's natural compounds, such as azulene and chamazulene, work to reduce inflammation in the muscles and joints, thereby alleviating tension and discomfort. Additionally, yarrow oil's warming and relaxing effects help to soothe soreness and ease muscle spasms, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation that can aid in reducing back pain.

By incorporating yarrow essential oils into one's routine, individuals may experience significant relief from back pain and improved overall well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in yarrow essential oils that aid with back pain.

• Analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties: Yarrow essential oil's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain and swelling in the muscles and joints, providing relief from back pain.
• Antispasmodic properties: Yarrow essential oil's antispasmodic properties help to relax muscle spasms and cramps that can contribute to back pain, reducing stiffness and tension in the back and neck.
• Antioxidant properties: Yarrow essential oil's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to chronic back pain and degenerative conditions such as arthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make essential oils for back pain.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, roots have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
• Flowers: Abundant in flavonoids and phenolic acids, flowers possess analgesic and antispasmodic properties that soothe back muscles and joints.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for back pain.

1. Harvest fresh achillea millefolium leaves and flowers at dawn when the dew is still present for optimal quality.
2. Wash the harvested material gently with cold distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the cleaned achillea millefolium into small pieces to increase surface area exposure during steam distillation.
4. Place the chopped plant material in a stainless steel steam distillation apparatus along with 200ml of still water and steam for 2 hours.
5. Collect the extracted essential oil from the condenser coil within the distillation apparatus, resulting in approximately 3% yield of achillea millefolium essential oil.

4. Salvia sclarea

Sage essential oils helps with back pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and ease tension in the muscles.

The oil's warming and relaxing effects also help to soothe and calm the nervous system, reducing muscle spasms and stiffness that often accompany back pain.

Additionally, sage oil's antimicrobial properties can help to promote healthy joint function and flexibility, further contributing to its analgesic benefits for back relief.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage essential oils that aid with back pain.

• Antispasmodic properties: Sage essential oil can help relax muscles and reduce spasms, providing relief from back pain caused by muscle strain or tension.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Sage oil contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected area, which can contribute to chronic back pain.
• Antioxidant properties: Sage essential oil's antioxidant properties can help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage, which can contribute to degenerative disc disease and other conditions that cause back pain.

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make essential oils for back pain.

• Roots: Sage roots are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing inflammation and pain associated with back pain.
• Rhyzomes: Sage rhyzomes contain sesquiterpenes, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate back pain and stiffness.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for back pain.

1. Harvest fresh salvia sclarea leaves selecting those with no signs of disease or pests.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a warm and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
3. Use a steam distillation apparatus combining 10g of dried salvia sclarea leaves with 100ml of water.
4. Distill the mixture at atmospheric pressure for 30 minutes collecting the resulting essential oil.
5. Filter the essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth and store it in dark glass bottles.

5. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with back pain because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The oil contains compounds such as eucalyptol and beta-caryophyllene, which work together to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the muscles and joints. When applied topically or inhaled, it can provide instant relief from tension headaches, sciatica, and lower back strain, allowing for improved flexibility and mobility.

Additionally, its decongestant properties help to reduce swelling and stiffness, promoting a sense of relaxation and calmness.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with back pain.

• Anti-inflammatory: The eucalyptol content in Tasmanian Blue Gum oil has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and ease pain associated with back pain.
• Muscle relaxant: The oil's cineole content has a calming effect on the muscles, making it an effective natural remedy for relieving muscle spasms and stiffness that contribute to back pain.
• Analgesic: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil contains analgesic properties that can help numb the pain associated with back pain, providing temporary relief from discomfort and soreness.

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for back pain.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
• Barks: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have analgesic and antispasmodic properties, helping to relieve muscle cramps and spasms commonly associated with back pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for back pain.

1. Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated weighing approximately 2 kilograms.
2. Dry the harvested leaves by spreading them thinly on paper towels or clean cloths for 7 to 10 days.
3. Steam distill the dried leaves using a steam distillation apparatus with a water to plant ratio of 1:5 and a distillation time of 4 hours.
4. Collect and separate the essential oil from the hydrosol by decanting off the clear liquid into a dark glass bottle within 30 minutes.
5. Store the freshly obtained eucalyptus globulus essential oil in a tightly sealed amber glass bottle at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to 12 months.

6. Piper nigrum

Black pepper essential oils helps with back pain because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

The oil's warming effect also increases blood circulation, which helps to relax tense muscles and ease stiffness in the back.

Additionally, black pepper essential oils' ability to enhance the absorption of other nutrients makes it an effective complement to traditional pain relief methods, allowing for faster recovery from back pain-related injuries or strain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in black pepper essential oils that aid with back pain.

• Circulatory stimulant: Herbal black pepper essential oil's circulatory stimulating property helps improve blood circulation to the affected area, which can reduce inflammation and relieve tension in the muscles and joints associated with back pain.
• Analgesic: Black pepper essential oil has analgesic properties that help numb the sensation of pain in the back, providing temporary relief from chronic or acute back pain.
• Anti-inflammatory: Herbal black pepper essential oil's anti-inflammatory property helps reduce swelling and inflammation in the muscles and joints, which can contribute to back pain by reducing tension and pressure on the spine.

The list below shows the primary parts of black pepper used to make essential oils for back pain.

• Roots: The roots of the black pepper plant are used to make essential oils that relieve muscle tension and inflammation, making them effective in alleviating back pain.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes (thick underground stems) of the black pepper plant contain compounds that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce back pain and discomfort.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic black pepper for back pain.

1. Harvest fresh black peppercorns from organic farms ensuring proper quality control.
2. Dry the harvested peppercorns in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 6 hours.
3. Steam distill the dried peppercorns using a copper still and water ratio of 1:3 for 4 hours.
4. Collect and filter the essential oil through a coffee filter paper into dark glass bottles.
5. Store the extracted piper nigrum essential oil in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with back pain because of its unique properties that provide relief from inflammation, muscle tension, and stress.

The oil's analgesic and anti-inflammatory compounds work to reduce discomfort and stiffness in the muscles, while its calming effects help to relax the body and mind.

Additionally, the scent of English lavender has a sedative quality, promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can exacerbate back pain.

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

• Anti-inflammatory: English Lavender essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with back pain.
• Muscle relaxant: The oil's muscle-relaxing properties can help calm tense muscles and relieve strain on the lower back, which is a common area affected by back pain.
• Anxiolytic (calming): English Lavender essential oil has a calming effect on the mind and body, which can help reduce anxiety and stress that may exacerbate or contribute to back pain.

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

• Roots: The roots of the English lavender plant have a calming effect and can help alleviate stress-related back pain by promoting relaxation.
• Flowers: Lavender flowers contain analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints associated with back pain.

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried lavender flowers ensuring quality and consistency for optimal yields.
2. Dry harvested flowers in a warm dark place for at least seven days to reduce moisture content.
3. Crush the dried lavender flowers using mortar and pestle to release oils from cells.
4. Steam distill crushed lavender mixture with 30 parts water at 100 degrees fahrenheit for three hours.
5. Filter and bottle distilled essential oil after settling for 24 hours allowing particles to separate naturally.

8. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm essential oils helps with back pain because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

When applied topically, lemon balm oil can help reduce muscle spasms and relieve tension in the back muscles, providing quick relief from discomfort and stiffness.

Additionally, its calming effects can help alleviate stress and anxiety that may be contributing to back pain, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with back pain.

• Analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties: Lemon balm essential oil helps to reduce back pain by relieving pain and inflammation, making it a natural alternative to over-the-counter medications.
• Muscle relaxant properties: The essential oil of lemon balm contains compounds that can help relax muscles, reducing muscle spasms and tension that often contribute to back pain.
• Antispasmodic properties: Lemon balm essential oil's ability to calm spasms in the muscles and nerves helps to reduce the frequency and severity of back pain episodes.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for back pain.

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of volatile oils, which can help alleviate muscle and joint pain associated with back pain.
• Buds: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, these buds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and relieve back pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for back pain.

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves at dawn when they are most aromatic and rich in essential oils.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer for 7-10 days or until brittle and crumbly.
3. Steam distill dried melissa officinalis leaves using distilled water and a stainless steel apparatus.
4. Collect and separate the obtained essential oil from the distillation residue after 30-40 minutes of distillation.
5. Filter and bottle the resulting melissa officinalis essential oil in dark glass containers within 24 hours.

9. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with back pain because of its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

When inhaled or applied topically, thyme oil can help reduce muscle tension and relax the muscles, alleviating back pain caused by strain or sprain. Additionally, thyme's antioxidant compounds can help reduce inflammation in the affected area, promoting healing and relief from chronic back pain.

Its natural decongestant properties also make it effective in reducing stiffness and discomfort associated with back pain.

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

• Analgesic property: Thyme essential oil has analgesic properties, which means it helps to reduce pain by numbing the affected area, providing relief from back pain and inflammation.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Thyme essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the muscles and joints, which can contribute to back pain and stiffness.
• Antispasmodic property: Thyme essential oil's antispasmodic properties help to relax muscle spasms and cramps, which can cause back pain and discomfort, by reducing muscle contractions and promoting relaxation.

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

• Roots: The roots of the thyme plant are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve back pain.
• Barks: Thyme barks contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that can help reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from back pain.

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried thymus vulagris leaves in a clean environment ensuring adequate sunlight exposure.
2. Steam distill the harvested leaves using a glass still and water at a temperature of 100°c for 4 hours.
3. Collect the resulting oil and separate it from the water by decantation taking care to avoid contamination.
4. Store the extracted essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature within 6 months.
5. Use a high-quality carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba and dilute the thymus vulagris essential oil at a ratio of 2% for topical application.

10. Curcuma longa

Turmeric essential oils helps with back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The curcumin present in turmeric oil works to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the muscles and joints, providing relief from chronic back pain. Additionally, it has natural warming properties that help to relax tense muscles and increase blood flow to the affected areas, promoting healing and reducing stiffness.

This makes turmeric essential oils a popular natural remedy for back pain sufferers seeking a safe and effective solution.

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

• Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric essential oil's anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce swelling and pain in the muscles and joints associated with back pain.
• Pain-relieving: Curcuminoids present in turmeric essential oil have potent analgesic properties that help alleviate acute and chronic back pain by reducing pain transmission.
• Antioxidant: Turmeric essential oil's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to back pain and degenerative conditions like arthritis.

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

• Rhyzomes: The rhizome is the underground stem of the turmeric plant, which contains high levels of curcuminoids that are responsible for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it effective in relieving back pain.
• Roots: Turmeric roots contain a unique combination of bioactive compounds like curcumin, turmerone, and sesquiterpenes that have been shown to reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and alleviate back pain.

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

1. Harvest fresh turmeric roots and dry them in the shade for 2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
2. Grind dried turmeric into fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine 100 grams of turmeric powder with 500 milliliters of high-quality carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60 degrees celsius for 30 minutes to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard solids after letting it cool down to room temperature.

How to best treat back pain with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat back pain with herbal essential oils is to combine topically applied blends of warming spices like ginger and cinnamon with cooling botanicals such as peppermint and eucalyptus.

Apply a massage oil mixture containing 5-7% lavender oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, directly to the affected area.

Alternatively, inhale the soothing scent of clary sage or ylang-ylang essential oils through steam inhalation or diffuser therapy.

What ailments similar to back pain are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to back pain that are treated with herbal essential oils are muscle and joint disorders, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sciatica.

Essential oils like Wintergreen, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus can help alleviate inflammation/essential-oils.html">inflammation, reduce stiffness, and ease tension in the muscles and joints.

Additionally, essential oils like Ginger and Turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm the body, providing relief from discomfort and pain.