Bursitis is a painful condition that causes joint, bone, and muscle pain. It happens when bursae, the small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, muscles, and tendons, stop functioning properly. [1]
The most common areas where you may have bursitis are your shoulder, hip, and elbow. However, it can also occur by your knee, heel, and the base of your big toe.
You are highly likely to have bursitis if you have a history of joint problems, trauma, doing exercise that requires repetitive movement, or you’re older. With proper care, this pain may go away within a few days.
You can also use some effective essential oils for bursitis to reduce the pain and inflammation in your joints. These essential oils are rich in anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation due to this condition.
This article reviews some pain-relieving essential oils that may help reduce the symptoms of bursitis.
Essential Oils for Bursitis
1. Ginger Oil
Ginger oil is quite famous for relieving different ailments ranging from nausea, and vomiting, to arthritis, bursitis, etc.
This essential oil contains analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the symptoms of bursitis.
According to an animal study published in Pharmacology, ginger oil could reduce inflammation in arthritic rats. [2]
The best part of this therapeutic oil is, unlike prescription drugs, it can reduce pain and inflammation without any side effects. [3]
2. Lavender Oil
Lavender essential oil is a potent anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and analgesic agent. It has been a popular choice among arthritis patients as it can stimulate blood circulation.
Due to these components, lavender oil can provide faster relief from pain. [4]
In a clinical trial conducted in 2002, this essential oil could reduce edema in animal subjects. [5]
It concludes that linalool linalyl acetate is the two properties that are responsible for the lavender’s anti-inflammatory effects. [5]
3. Helichrysum Oil
Obtained from the Helichrysum italicum plant, this essential oil has been traditionally used to treat various diseases that cause skin inflammation.
Research published in 2016 proves that this essential oil is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. [6]
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, helichrysum oil may also reduce pain and inflammation in joints and muscles.
4. Chamomile Oil
Chamomile is one of the world’s oldest remedies to treat various types of diseases. The essential oil extracted from it is also rich in medicinal properties. [7]
The analgesic and anti-inflammatory compounds of this essential oil can help reduce pain in the joints and muscles.
Besides, chamomile oil contains some active compounds such as luteolin, apigenin, and quercetin that you get relief from the pain. [8]
5. Turmeric Oil
Turmeric oil is quite popular worldwide because of its numerous medicinal benefits.
Curcumin, an active component found in turmeric, can act as an anti-inflammatory agent. [9]
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry shows how turmeric could reduce joint swelling in animal subjects. [10]
Besides the medicinal properties found in this oil can help tone down joint inflammation. [11]
How to Use Essential Oils for Bursitis
- Take a few drops of any of these essential oils.
- Dilute it with a suitable carrier oil.
- Gently massage your affected area with this oil mix.
- Repeat this remedy until you heal properly.
Things to Remember While Using Essential Oils
- Some essential oils are quite powerful and may irritate your skin if applied directly. Do not forget to dilute them before topical application.
- If any of these essential oils causes allergic reactions, immediately stop using them.
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding moms are highly recommended not to use any essential oils without asking the doctor.
- Test the oil’s reaction to your skin before using it regularly.
Medical Treatment for Bursitis
Bursitis symptoms usually go away within a few days with proper rest and care. However, if you see no improvement after using home remedies, you must seek medical attention.
The following symptoms require a doctor’s involvement:
- Joint pain with fever.
- Pain lasts for more than two weeks.
- Sharp, shooting pain in the affected area.
- The affected region becomes red with excessive bruising and swelling.
Conclusion
No pain and inflammation in the joints, muscle, and tendon area should be taken lightly. While bursitis may heal within a few days with proper care, a bit of ignorance can lead to a severe medical condition.
The best way to soothe bursitis symptoms is to rest your affected area and try some safe and natural home remedies. Essential oils can be a good pick as they are rich in therapeutic properties.
However, if the pain gets worse even after proper care, you must see a doctor and start treatment.
