10 best herbal essential oils for joint pain

Herbal essential oils for joint pain are natural extracts derived from plants, flowers, and trees that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, providing relief from joint discomfort, stiffness, and inflammation.

These oils help to reduce pain by penetrating deep into the skin, soothing affected areas, and promoting relaxation. Examples of herbal essential oils that alleviate joint pain include arnica oil, peppermint oil, and ginger oil.

By using these oils in a massage or topical application, individuals can experience reduced swelling, increased mobility, and improved overall quality of life, allowing them to engage in daily activities with greater ease and comfort.

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

1. Salvia sclarea

Sage essential oils helps with joint pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

The oil's antioxidant compounds work to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation, promoting a healthy and stable joint environment.

Additionally, sage oil's analgesic properties help to ease pain and stiffness, making it an effective natural remedy for managing joint pain and improving overall joint health.

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

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Herbal sage essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as camphor and bornyl acetate, help reduce swelling and inflammation in joints, providing relief from pain and stiffness.
• Pain-relieving properties: The oil's analgesic and anesthetic properties, including thujone and linalool, can numb the pain sensation and reduce discomfort associated with joint pain, allowing for greater mobility and reduced sensitivity to pain.
• Antioxidant properties: Herbal sage essential oil's antioxidant compounds help protect joints from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic inflammation and degenerative joint disease.

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

• Roots: Sage roots have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing inflammation and alleviating joint pain.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of sage contain compounds like thujone and camphor, which provide analgesic and antispasmodic effects, helping to soothe joint discomfort.

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

1. Harvest fresh salvia sclarea leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
2. Rinse the harvested leaves gently with distilled water to remove any impurities and debris.
3. Steam distill the washed leaves using a clevenger apparatus at 100°c for approximately 4-6 hours.
4. Collect the resulting essential oil in a sterile glass container and store it in an airtight bottle at room temperature.
5. Filter the essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any impurities or sediment before use.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice essential oils helps with joint pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce swelling and ease stiffness in the joints.

The oil's flavonoids and glycosides help to block the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to inflammation. Additionally, licorice essential oil contains lignans, which have been shown to have a synergistic effect with other anti-inflammatory compounds, providing effective relief from joint pain and stiffness.

This natural remedy offers a safe and gentle approach to managing chronic joint discomfort.

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

• Anti-inflammatory: Herbal licorice essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and pain in joints, making it an effective natural remedy for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of herbal licorice essential oil help neutralize free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation, which can damage joint tissues and exacerbate pain.
• Analgesic: Herbal licorice essential oil contains compounds that have a numbing effect on the skin and mucous membranes, providing relief from chronic pain in joints and muscles.

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

• Roots: Licorice roots are rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain.
• Barks: The barks of the licorice plant contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective for treating joint pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for joint pain.

1. Harvest fresh glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the morning after dew has dried.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots thoroughly for at least 2 hours.
3. Steam distill 100 grams of cleaned roots using a clevenger apparatus at atmospheric pressure.
4. Collect the resulting essential oil and separate it from water using a separating funnel within 1 hour.
5. Filter the essential oil through a coffee filter paper to remove any impurities.

3. Curcuma longa

Turmeric essential oils helps with joint pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. When used topically or taken internally as an oil supplement, curcumin can penetrate deep into the joints, reducing stiffness and pain, and promoting improved mobility and flexibility.

Regular use of turmeric essential oils may also help reduce joint inflammation, leading to long-term relief from chronic joint pain.

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

• Curcuminoid content: Turmeric essential oil contains curcuminoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and pain in joints.
• Cyclooxygenase inhibition: The oil's curcuminoids inhibit the production of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme responsible for producing prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation, providing relief from joint discomfort.
• Antioxidant activity: Turmeric essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can damage joints, reduce oxidative stress, and promote overall joint health.

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

• Roots: Rich in curcuminoids, the roots of turmeric are a popular choice for making essential oils that alleviate joint pain due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Rhizomes: The rhizomes of turmeric contain high levels of volatile oils, which make them ideal for extracting essential oils that can help reduce joint inflammation and improve flexibility.

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

1. Harvest fresh curcuma longa roots weighing approximately 100g.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a warm, dry place for 7-10 days.
3. Steam distill the dried roots using a still for 4 hours and 30 minutes.
4. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil into dark glass containers.
5. Allow the essential oil to mature in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks.

4. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with joint pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the joints, alleviating symptoms of arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. Additionally, ginger's warming and soothing effects can help relax tense muscles and improve circulation, further reducing stiffness and discomfort associated with joint pain.

As a result, incorporating herbal ginger essential oils into one's daily routine can provide natural relief from joint pain and discomfort.

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

• Anti-inflammatory property: Herbal ginger essential oil's anti-inflammatory property helps reduce joint inflammation, which is a major contributor to joint pain, by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.
• Pain-relieving property: The analgesic and anti-nociceptive properties of herbal ginger essential oil help alleviate joint pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness.
• Antioxidant property: Herbal ginger essential oil's antioxidant property helps protect joints from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to joint degeneration and pain.

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

• Rhyzomes: Rich in sesquiterpenes and other bioactive compounds, rhyzomes have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate joint pain and swelling.
• Barks: Containing phenolic acids and flavonoids, ginger barks exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, making them effective in reducing joint pain and inflammation.

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

1. Harvest fresh ginger roots weigh approximately one pound chop into small pieces.
2. Steam distill the ginger roots using a copper still at atmospheric pressure for three hours.
3. Monitor and record the distillation process collecting a total of 100 milliliters oil extract.
4. Filter the extracted oil through a paper filter or coffee filter to remove impurities and sediment.
5. Store the resulting zingiber officinale essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight fitting lids.

5. Capsicum annuum

Bell pepper essential oils helps with joint pain because of its unique composition, which includes a high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

These properties work synergistically to reduce inflammation in the joints, thereby alleviating pain and stiffness. The essential oil's analgesic properties also help to block pain signals to the brain, providing relief from discomfort and improving overall mobility.

As a result, incorporating bell pepper essential oils into one's wellness routine can be a natural and effective way to manage joint pain and promote overall well-being.

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

• Clove oil: Clove oil contains eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce joint pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Turmeric essential oil: Turmeric essential oil contains curcuminoids, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate joint pain and inflammation.
• Ginger essential oil: Ginger essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which help reduce joint pain by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

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

• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them effective in reducing joint inflammation and alleviating pain.
• Barks: Containing tannins and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and improve joint mobility.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for joint pain.

1. Harvest fresh capsicum annuum leaves and flowers in the morning, ensuring they are free of pests and diseases.
2. Dry the harvested material using a clean, dry towel or paper towels for at least two hours.
3. Transfer the dried herbs to a clean glass jar with a lid, adding 20% volume of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 14-21 days, shaking the jar daily to facilitate infusion and extraction.
5. Filter the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids and retaining the essential oil.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe essential oils helps with joint pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in the affected areas.

The oil's potent antioxidants also work to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to chronic inflammation, allowing for a decrease in stiffness and improved mobility.

Additionally, aloe's analgesic properties provide natural relief from pain, making it an effective natural remedy for joint pain sufferers.

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

• Anti-inflammatory compounds: Herbal aloe essential oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in joints by blocking the production of prostaglandins, a hormone that causes inflammation.
• Analgesic properties: Aloe vera's analgesic properties help to numb the pain receptors in joints, providing fast and effective relief from joint discomfort and pain without causing addiction or dependency.
• Wound-healing and tissue repair: Herbal aloe essential oil's wound-healing and tissue-repair properties can help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen synthesis, which can aid in the recovery of damaged joints.

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

• Leaves: The leaves of the aloe plant contain a high concentration of gel, which is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, making it effective in reducing joint pain.
• Roots: Aloe roots are used to create an essential oil that targets inflammation and reduces joint swelling, making them beneficial for relieving arthritis symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for joint pain.

1. Gather fresh aloe vera leaves and grind them into a fine pulp using a food processor or blender.
2. Combine the aloe vera pulp with carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a ratio of 10% aloe vera to 90% carrier oil.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 2-4 weeks, shaking the container daily to ensure even infusion.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass jar, discarding the solids and retaining the liquid.
5. Store the resulting herbal aloe vera essential oil in an amber glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid and keep it in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.

7. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with joint pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil contains a compound called cineole, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and ease pain in joints. Additionally, the oil's analgesic properties help to numb the affected area, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness.

By applying topically or incorporating it into massages, Tasmanian blue gum essential oils can provide natural and effective relief for joint pain sufferers.

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

• Anti-inflammatory: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and swelling in joints, which can alleviate pain and discomfort caused by conditions such as arthritis.
• Analgesic: The analgesic properties of Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil help to numb the sensation of pain in joints, providing relief from chronic aches and pains associated with osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and other joint-related conditions.
• Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil help to protect joints from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of chronic joint pain and inflammation.

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

• Roots: The roots contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in relieving joint pain and reducing inflammation.
• Barks: The barks have been traditionally used to treat arthritis and other joint-related disorders due to their ability to reduce pain and inflammation.

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

1. Harvest high-quality eucalyptus globulus leaves from a trusted supplier or local farm in late summer or early fall.
2. Clean and dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator at 105°f for 4 hours to remove excess moisture.
3. Steam distill 500g of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 1l of distilled water for 30 minutes to extract essential oil.
4. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil using cheesecloth or a coffee filter paper to remove any impurities.
5. Store the final product in dark glass bottles at room temperature, protected from direct sunlight, for up to 12 months after preparation.

8. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with joint pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol present in peppermint oil can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in joints affected by arthritis, gout, and other conditions. When applied topically or inhaled, the cooling sensation of peppermint oil can also relax tense muscles and improve blood flow to the affected areas, providing relief from stiffness and pain.

Additionally, peppermint's analgesic properties can help block pain signals to the brain, offering a natural solution for managing chronic joint discomfort.

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

• Anti-inflammatory: Peppermint essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in joints by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation.
• Antioxidant: Antioxidants present in peppermint essential oil neutralize free radicals that can damage joint tissues and contribute to chronic pain, helping to protect the joints from oxidative stress.
• Pain-relieving: The menthol content in peppermint essential oil helps to numb the skin, reducing discomfort and pain associated with joint inflammation by desensitizing nerve endings.

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

• Roots: Rich in menthol, which helps reduce inflammation and ease joint stiffness, making it an effective component for topical application.
• Rhyzomes: Contains a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, perfect for alleviating joint pain and discomfort.

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

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from your garden or obtain them from a trusted supplier weighing around 100 grams.
2. Dry the fresh peppermint leaves in a warm dry place for at least 48 hours ensuring they are completely wilted and crumbly.
3. Place the dried peppermint leaves into a glass jar filled with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil using a 1:5 ratio.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 24 to 48 hours giving it time to infuse and extract the menthol and menthone compounds.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another container discarding the solids and store the resulting essential oil in an amber glass bottle.

9. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with joint pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

The oil's analgesic properties also help to numb the affected area, providing relief from sharp pains and aching sensations. Additionally, lavender's antioxidant properties help to protect joints from further damage and promote healing.

By using English lavender essential oils topically or through aromatherapy, individuals can experience significant reduction in joint pain and stiffness, promoting a more comfortable and active lifestyle.

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

• Anti-inflammatory: English Lavender essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease pain associated with joint inflammation.
• Antispasmodic: The oil's antispasmodic properties can help relax muscles and relieve spasms in joints, reducing stiffness and discomfort.
• Analgesic: English Lavender essential oil has analgesic properties, which can help numb the sensation of pain in joints, providing relief from aches and soreness.

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

• Roots: The roots of English lavender contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
• Seeds: Lavender seeds are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit potent antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress and alleviating joint pain.

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

1. Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Dry the harvested flowers by spreading them thinly on paper towels for 7-10 days.
3. Steam distill the dried flowers using a clevenger apparatus at a pressure of 1 atm and temperature of 100°c for 4 hours.
4. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or cotton cloth into dark glass bottles at room temperature within 30 minutes.
5. Store the finished lavandula angustifolia essential oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

10. Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass essential oils helps with joint pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce swelling and discomfort in the joints.

The oil's citral content also acts as a natural pain reliever, targeting areas of tension and stiffness to bring relief to sore muscles and joints. Additionally, lemongrass oil's warming properties help to increase circulation, further reducing inflammation and promoting healing in affected areas.

As a result, regular use of lemongrass essential oils can lead to noticeable improvement in joint mobility and reduced pain levels.

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

• Anti-inflammatory: Lemongrass essential oil has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with joint inflammation.
• Analgesic: The oil's analgesic properties help to numb the affected area, reducing discomfort and pain caused by joint issues such as arthritis.
• Antioxidant: Lemongrass essential oil's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate oxidative stress and inflammation in joints, promoting overall joint health.

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

• Roots: The roots of lemongrass contain a high concentration of citral, a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound that helps to alleviate joint pain.
• Rhyzomes: Lemongrass rhyzomes have a unique chemical composition that makes them an effective natural remedy for reducing inflammation and alleviating joint stiffness.

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves of cymbopogon citratus at dawn when dew is still present for maximum oil content.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a clean mesh bag or paper bags for at least 7-10 days.
3. Steam distill the dried leaves using a commercial steam distillation apparatus with 20g of plant material per liter of water for 2 hours.
4. Collect and filter the essential oil obtained from the distillation process through a coffee filter or cotton cloth into dark glass bottles.
5. Store the herbal cymbopogon citratus essential oil in a cool dark place at room temperature for up to 12 months.

How to best treat joint pain with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat joint pain with herbal essential oils is by blending Frankincense and Helichrysum with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba.

Apply topically to the affected area, massaging gently into the skin. Alternatively, add a few drops of each oil to your bath water for a relaxing soak.

This synergy helps reduce inflammation, ease discomfort, and promote natural healing.

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

Ailments similar to joint pain that are treated with herbal essential oils are inflammation, arthritis, muscle cramps, and sciatica.

Essential oils such as frankincense, wintergreen, and peppermint have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate these symptoms.

Ginger oil, in particular, is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective natural remedy for pain relief.