Last updated: Jul 07, 2024
10 best herbal essential oils for bursitis
Herbal essential oils for bursitis are a natural remedy that can provide relief from inflammation, pain, and stiffness associated with bursitis.
These oils are derived from plants and herbs that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the affected area. Examples of herbal essential oils that help with bursitis include peppermint oil, wintergreen oil, and helichrysum oil.
By using these oils through massage or topical application, individuals can experience improved mobility and reduced pain, allowing them to return to their normal daily activities with greater ease and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for bursitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Arnica montana
Mountain arnica essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and pain in affected joints.
The oil's analgesic properties also provide quick relief from discomfort and stiffness, allowing individuals to resume their normal activities without interruption.
Additionally, the oil's ability to promote blood flow and circulation helps to clear out toxins and debris that may be contributing to bursitis, promoting a faster recovery and minimizing the risk of future flare-ups.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in mountain arnica essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and pain associated with Bursitis by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause inflammation.
- Antirheumatic: Helps to reduce joint stiffness and relieve pressure on affected joints, promoting flexibility and mobility in people suffering from Bursitis.
- Pain-relieving: Contains compounds like sesquiterpenes, which have analgesic properties, providing quick relief from pain and discomfort caused by Bursitis.
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, the roots of the mountain arnica plant contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help alleviate pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
- Rhizomes: The rhizomes of the mountain arnica plant are known to possess potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them an effective addition to essential oils for relieving bursitis symptoms.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh arnica montana flowers and leaves and air-dry them for at least two weeks.
- Combine one cup of dried arnica montana herbs with two cups of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
- Steep the herb mixture in a glass jar for six hours under indirect sunlight and shake periodically.
- Filter the liquid using cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the essential oil from the solids after 24 hours of steeping time.
- Bottle the resulting essential oil in dark-tinted glass containers and store it in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
2. Helichrysum italicum
Curry plant essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as linalool and terpenoids, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in affected joints. Additionally, curry plant essential oil has natural analgesic and antispasmodic properties that help alleviate stiffness and discomfort associated with bursitis.
When applied topically, the oil can be absorbed quickly into the skin, providing targeted relief and promoting healthy joint function.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in curry plant essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Antioxidant properties: Curry leaf oil's antioxidant properties can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with bursitis, promoting healing and reducing pain.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as curcuminoids, can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort caused by bursitis.
- Analgesic and pain-relieving properties: Curry leaf oil has been shown to possess analgesic and anesthetic properties, which may help ease the chronic pain and discomfort associated with bursitis.
The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: Curry root oil is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate joint pain associated with bursitis.
- Leaves: Leaf essential oil from the curry plant is known for its analgesic and antispasmodic properties, making it effective in relieving pain and stiffness caused by bursitis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh helichrysum italicum leaves at dawn when dew is still present for optimal potency.
- Clean and dry the harvested leaves by gently blowing air through the stems to remove excess moisture.
- Steam distill the dried helichrysum italicum leaves in a copper alembic using 10 grams of leaves with 1000 ml of distilled water.
- Collect the resulting essential oil and separate it from the water mixture using a centrifuge or decantation method.
- Store the final helichrysum italicum essential oil in dark glass bottles away from direct sunlight for up to six months.
3. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, work together to reduce swelling and ease pain in affected joints. When applied topically or used in aromatherapy, English lavender oil can help soothe the irritated bursae, allowing for increased range of motion and reduced stiffness.
Its calming properties also promote relaxation, which can aid in managing stress and anxiety that often exacerbates bursitis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Anti-inflammatory: English Lavender essential oil's anti-inflammatory property helps reduce swelling and pain associated with Bursitis, allowing for faster healing and relief.
- Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of English Lavender essential oil protect the affected area from further damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
- Pain-relieving: English Lavender essential oil's analgesic (pain-relieving) property helps to reduce pain and discomfort associated with Bursitis, making it an effective natural remedy for managing symptoms.
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: The roots of the lavender plant are used to make medicinal essential oils for bursitis because they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Barks: The barks of the lavender plant are used to make medicinal essential oils for bursitis because they have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help soothe and calm affected areas.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for bursitis.
- Harvest high-quality lavandula angustifolia flowers in full bloom.
- Steam distill the dried flowers using 10-15% of flower material by weight.
- Collect the distilled essential oil and separate it from the hydrosol.
- Filter the essential oil through activated charcoal to remove impurities.
- Store the filtered essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids.
4. Copaifera officinalis
Balsam fir essential oils helps with bursitis because it possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating pain and reducing swelling in affected joints.
The oil's sesquiterpenes work to decrease inflammation and relieve pressure on the affected area, providing quick relief from discomfort.
Additionally, its refreshing and invigorating aroma can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, further contributing to overall well-being.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in balsam fir essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Balsam fir essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain associated with bursitis, making it an effective natural remedy to alleviate discomfort.
- Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of balsam fir essential oil help protect the body from free radical damage caused by inflammation, which can further exacerbate bursitis symptoms, and promote overall healing and recovery.
- Analgesic: Balsam fir essential oil has analgesic (pain-relieving) properties that can help numb pain and reduce discomfort associated with bursitis, providing relief for those who suffer from chronic pain and inflammation.
The list below shows the primary parts of balsam fir used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes and other bioactive compounds, roots are commonly used to create anti-inflammatory essential oils that help alleviate pain and reduce swelling associated with bursitis.
- Barks: The barks of the balsam fir tree contain resinous compounds like cinnamic acid, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in relieving discomfort caused by bursitis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic balsam fir for bursitis.
- Harvest 20 fresh copaifera officinalis leaves and flowers, washed gently in cold water and drained thoroughly.
- Dry the harvested plant material using air circulation at room temperature for 3-4 days or with a dehydrator on low heat.
- Steam distill 500g of dried copaifera officinalis leaves and flowers with 1 liter of distilled water at atmospheric pressure for 2 hours.
- Filter the resulting essential oil using a glass wool filter pad and collect the clear liquid in a clean, dark glass bottle.
- Store the herbal copaifera officinalis essential oil in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months, shaking the bottle daily to prevent sedimentation.
5. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The oil, extracted from Calendula officinalis flowers, has been traditionally used to soothe joint pain and reduce swelling. When applied topically, it can help reduce inflammation in the affected area, easing discomfort and stiffness associated with bursitis.
Additionally, pot marigold essential oils may also promote healing by improving blood circulation and reducing oxidative stress, making it a natural remedy for managing bursitis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Antinflammatory: Calendula essential oil has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with bursitis.
- Analgesic: The essential oil contains analgesic compounds that can help numb the affected area, providing relief from chronic aching and stiffness caused by bursitis.
- Antioxidant: Calendula's antioxidant properties can help protect against oxidative stress and damage to tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation in the affected joint or surrounding areas.
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: Rich in flavonoids and saponins, which provide anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
- Flowers: High in lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoid pigments that have potent anti-inflammatory effects, making them effective for treating joint inflammation caused by bursitis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh or dried calendula officinalis flowers at dawn for optimal potency retention.
- Combine 10 grams of calendula petals with 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond or jojoba oil.
- Steep the mixture in a warm place for 12 hours to allow for efficient oil extraction and infusion.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container discarding solids after 30 minutes.
- Store the essential oil in dark glass bottles away from heat and light sources for up to six months.
6. Gaultheria procumbens
Wintergreen essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which directly target the affected area.
The oil's main compound, methyl salicylate, is a natural analgesic and anti-pain agent that reduces swelling and eases discomfort associated with bursitis. Additionally, wintergreen essential oils can help to relax tense muscles and joints, promoting flexibility and mobility.
By applying it topically, individuals can experience relief from bursitis symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and inflammation, allowing for a quicker recovery.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in wintergreen essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties: Wintergreen essential oil contains methyl salicylate, a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent that helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bursitis.
- Antioxidant properties: Wintergreen essential oil's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to chronic inflammation and damage to joints and tissues, making it beneficial in reducing the progression of bursitis.
- Analgesic and antiarthritic properties: The analgesic properties of wintergreen essential oil help to numb pain and reduce discomfort, while its antiarthritic properties may help to alleviate symptoms of arthritis, which can contribute to bursitis.
The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of methyl salicylate, a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate bursitis symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are employed because they contain a rich source of wintergreen oil's active compounds, providing relief from bursitis pain and inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for bursitis.
- Harvest gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems at dawn when moisture levels are highest for optimal oil quality.
- Dry the harvested material in a single layer using shade or low-temperature drying methods within 24 hours.
- Steam distill dried gaultheria procumbens material with distilled water at 100°c for 4-6 hours to extract essential oils.
- Filter the distilled oil mixture through activated carbon and decant off any impurities after 30 minutes of settling time.
- Bottle the high-quality gaultheria procumbens essential oil in dark glass containers with tight-fitting lids to preserve potency within 72 hours.
7. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and alleviate pain in affected joints.
The oil's natural analgesic properties also help to numb the area, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness.
Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum essential oil has been shown to promote healing by stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammation, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating bursitis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Tasmanian Blue Gum Essential Oil's anti-inflammatory property can help reduce swelling and pain associated with Bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory compounds.
- Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of Tasmanian Blue Gum Essential Oil can help protect against oxidative stress, which contributes to inflammation and tissue damage in Bursitis.
- Analgesic: Tasmanian Blue Gum Essential Oil's analgesic property can help relieve pain associated with Bursitis by blocking the production of pain signals in the brain.
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, roots are effective in reducing inflammation and relieving pain associated with bursitis.
- Barks: Containing phenolic acids and flavonoids, barks have been traditionally used to treat musculoskeletal conditions like bursitis, providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves from a reputable source in the morning.
- Wash the collected leaves gently with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Steam distill 100 grams of the washed eucalyptus globulus leaves for 60 minutes using a steam distillation apparatus.
- Collect the resulting essential oil and separate it from the hydrosol through filtration and decantation.
- Store the produced eucalyptus globulus essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature.
8. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The oils' main active compound, terpinen-4-ol, has been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain in affected joints. Additionally, tea tree oil's antiseptic properties help combat infection, which can exacerbate bursitis symptoms.
When applied topically or added to a warm bath, tea tree essential oils may provide relief from the discomfort, stiffness, and limited mobility associated with bursitis, promoting faster recovery and improved quality of life.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in tea tree essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Antimicrobial property: Tea tree oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which can help prevent infection and reduce inflammation in affected joints.
- Anti-inflammatory property: The oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as cineole and terpinen-4-ol, may help reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness associated with bursitis.
- Pain-relieving property: Tea tree oil contains compounds that have been shown to have analgesic (pain-relieving) effects, which can help alleviate the discomfort and pain caused by bursitis.
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: The roots of the tea tree plant are valued for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them effective in reducing pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
- Leaves: Tea tree leaves contain high amounts of cineole, a natural compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility, making them an excellent choice for bursitis relief.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for bursitis.
- Harvest 20 freshly picked leaves of melaleuca alternifolia in the early morning dew.
- Dry the leaves for 7-10 days in a warm, dark place at room temperature using paper bags.
- Steam distill the dried leaves using a clevenger apparatus with 200ml of water for 4 hours.
- Filter and decant the essential oil into a sterile glass bottle using a coffee filter paper within 30 minutes.
- Store the finished melaleuca alternifolia essential oil in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
9. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint essential oils helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol in peppermint oil has a cooling effect on affected areas, reducing swelling and pain associated with bursitis. Additionally, peppermint oil's analgesic and antispasmodic properties help to relax tense muscles and ease stiffness, providing relief from discomfort and promoting healthy joint function.
By incorporating peppermint essential oils into aromatherapy massages or topical applications, individuals can experience natural relief from the discomfort of bursitis.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Peppermint oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and pain associated with bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Analgesic: The analgesic properties of peppermint oil can help alleviate chronic pain, stiffness, and discomfort caused by bursitis by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
- Antioxidant: Peppermint oil's antioxidant properties can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area by neutralizing free radicals and protecting tissues from damage.
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: Peppermint roots contain high levels of menthol, which helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with bursitis.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzome of the peppermint plant contains a significant amount of piperitenone, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective for treating bursitis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from a sunny location with high humidity during morning hours weighing about 50 grams.
- Wash the harvested peppermint leaves gently with cold running water and then dry thoroughly using paper towels for about 30 minutes.
- Steam distill the dried peppermint leaves in a stainless steel still at atmospheric pressure for approximately 2 hours resulting in an output volume of 10 milliliters.
- Collect the separated essential oil from the steam distillation process by decantation into dark glass vials and store them in a refrigerator at 5 degrees celsius for up to 6 months.
- Filter the collected essential oil through a sterile filter paper to remove any impurities before using it for aromatherapy or other cosmetic applications.
10. Satureja montana
Summer savory essential oils helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce swelling and ease pain.
The oil's analgesic properties also help to numb the affected area, providing instant relief from discomfort. Additionally, summer savory essential oil has natural antimicrobial properties that promote healthy tissue repair and prevent infection.
By applying topically or using aromatherapy, this essential oil can provide fast and effective relief for individuals suffering from bursitis.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in summer savory essential oils that aid with bursitis.
- Antioxidant: Summer Savory essential oil's antioxidant properties can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by bursitis, promoting healing and relieving pain.
- Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds in Summer Savory essential oil, such as thymol and carvacrol, can help reduce swelling and alleviate joint pain associated with bursitis.
- Pain-relieving: The analgesic properties of Summer Savory essential oil can help numb the pain and discomfort caused by bursitis, providing temporary relief from symptoms.
The list below shows the primary parts of summer savory used to make essential oils for bursitis.
- Roots: Summer savory roots contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and ease joint pain, making them an effective component in essential oils for bursitis relief.
- Barks: The bark of summer savory contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the discomfort associated with bursitis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic summer savory for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh satureja montana leaves and stems in the early morning after dew has dried.
- Dry the harvested material using a dehumidifier or shade drying method for 7-10 days.
- Steam distill the dried satureja montana material at atmospheric pressure with water to yield essential oil.
- Collect and filter the essential oil through activated charcoal and paper filters within 24 hours of distillation.
- Store the finished essential oil in dark glass bottles, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
How to best treat bursitis with herbal essential oils?
The best way to treat bursitis with herbal essential oils is to combine Lavender oil for its anti-inflammatory properties, Wintergreen oil for its analgesic effects, and Peppermint oil to reduce pain and stiffness.
Massage 2-3 drops of the blend onto the affected area three times a day, or as needed.
This combination can provide effective relief from bursitis symptoms without harsh chemicals or medications.
What ailments similar to bursitis are treated with herbal essential oils?
Ailments similar to bursitis that are treated with herbal essential oils are tendonitis, tenosynovitis, and fasciitis.
These conditions involve inflammation/essential-oils.html">inflammation and irritation of tendons, ligaments, or connective tissue, often causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Essential oils like peppermint, wintergreen, and camphor can be used to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
Massage therapy with these oils may help relieve tension in affected areas, promoting relaxation and improving range of motion.