The annual outbreak rate of neck pain exceeds 30%, making it the fourth leading cause of disability. [1]
The human neck consists of vertebrae that expand from the skull to the upper torso. Any injury, abnormality, and inflammation may cause neck pain.
Neck pain is a common disorder and usually nothing to worry about. But the pain can gradually increase and make your life miserable. So, it’s important to treat your neck pain before it gets worse.
Some essential oils for neck pain may help soothe the pain and stiffness of your neck. These oils have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. They can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in your neck.
This article looks into some of the effective essential oils that can be helpful for your neck pain.
Causes of Neck Pain
There are so many reasons to have neck pain. [2]
Some of these include:
- Poor posture
- Using the wrong pillow.
- Wrong sleeping patterns.
- Performing a desk job for a long time without changing the position.
- Jerking head while exercising.
- Overuse of neck muscle.
- Whiplash
- Spinal disk changes.
Sometimes, neck pain accompanies a severe headache, inflammatory conditions of the spine, and jaw joint disorders.
Essential Oils for Neck Pain
1. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil comes from the peppermint tree. This essential oil is widely used in food, cosmetics, and medicines. [3]
Peppermint essential oil is rich in anti-inflammatory, analgesic, carminative, and stimulant properties.
Menthol, an active component in peppermint is a natural analgesic. Thus, it can reduce any pain and inflammation in your neck. [4]
There was an animal study conducted in 2012. It showed the analgesic effect of peppermint on mice. [5]
So, if you’re having severe neck pain, you can consider peppermint oil to ease the pain.
Related: 12 Health Benefits of Peppermint Oil + (How to Use It)
2. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil originates from the lavender plant which is native to the Mediterranean regions.
For years, people have been using this essential oil to treat pain, infection, and inflammation. Due to its sedative effect, the oil can also provide relaxation. [6]
In a study, researchers tested the anti-inflammatory and analgesic components of lavender oil. They confirmed it could be an excellent remedy for inflammatory diseases such as neck pain. [7]
Lavender oil is an antinociceptive agent. Therefore, it can prevent pain signals from forming in your brain. [8]
Related: 11 Health Benefits of Lavender Oil That You Should Know
3. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is known as a great pain reliever.
An animal study conducted in Mexico evaluated the pain-relieving efficiency of rosemary oil. They found it can reduce swelling and block pain in the mice’s brains. [9]
Another animal study performed in 2015 confirmed the analgesic properties of rosemary oil. [10]
The studies show that rosemary oil can effectively ease any inflammatory conditions such as neck pain.
Related: Rosemary Oil: 13 Benefits and Uses for Skin, Hair, and Health
4. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil originates from the leaves of eucalyptus trees that belong to the Myrtaceae. The oil can treat diabetes, cancers, and some inflammatory diseases.
A study was published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. It shows that eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. [11]
In another study, some patients with total knee replacement surgeries attended. Those who inhaled eucalyptus oil had reduced pain and lowered blood pressure. [12]
The cooling sensation of this oil can numb the neck pain when applied to the skin.
5. Ginger Oil
Ginger oil is one of the most potent essential oil that can relieve many illnesses.
The oil is rich in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antinociceptive properties.
It can reduce pain, and swelling. It can also neutralize cellular damage due to free radicals. [13]
The oil has a warming effect on sore muscles. Massaging with ginger oil can reduce neck pain and back pain. [14]
So, if you have excruciating pain in your neck, ginger oil can help relieve the pain.
Related: 10 Health Benefits of Ginger Oil That You Should Know About
6. Clary Sage Oil
Clary sage oil originates from the flowering plant Salvia sclarea that’s native to the Mediterranean Basin. It can ease aches, depression, asthmatic conditions, and pain in the body. [15]
A study performed in 2017 probed the anti-inflammatory effects of clary sage oil. Researchers tested its efficacy on the rats suffering from inflammation. [16]
Besides, clary sage oil can reduce blood pressure, lower anxiety, and improve your mood.
7. Chamomile Oil
Chamomile essential oil may give you relief from annoying neck pain.
Research says chamomile oil is rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, it can help ease the pain in your neck, joints, and muscle. [17]
Chamomile oil is a natural analgesic and anti-depressant. So, it can reduce any joint pain and help you relax. It’s an excellent choice to use in aromatherapy. [18]
How to Use Essential Oils for Neck Pain
- Take 2-3 drops of any essential oil and dilute it with a carrier oil. Jojoba oil and coconut oil are two of the best choices as carrier oil.
- Rub the oil on your neck and massage the area.
- Place a hot water bag on your neck for 10-15 minutes. It will help the oil to penetrate your skin.
- Repeat the method 2 to 3 times every day until you heal.
Things You Need to Consider While Using Essential Oils
Essential oils must be handled with caution, especially when used topically.
- Always dilute the essential oil with a good carrier oil. Some of them may irritate your skin as they are quite strong.
- Read the labels before using any essential oil. Store them in a cold and dry place.
- Always do a patch test on the less sensitive part of your skin to see if the essential oil suits you.
- If you’re pregnant, ask your doctor whether you should use essential oils or not.
When to See a Doctor
Neck pain is a common disorder and usually goes away with proper rest and medications. Essential oil massage can also help to soothe the pain. [2]
But, you need to ask for urgent medical attention if you see the following symptoms:
- You have difficulty moving your arm due to severe neck pain.
- You develop neck pain because of an accident.
- Pain doesn’t go even after resting and massaging.
- Fever
- Losing weight unintentionally.
- Losing control of bladder and bowel movement.
Bottom Line
Neck pain isn’t a severe problem. But if the pain becomes excruciating, it may hamper your daily activities.
Take proper rest while you’re in pain. Avoid doing heavy exercises till your pain is gone.
You can also try some essential oils that will give relief from neck pain and stiff neck.
If the pain doesn’t go within a few days, see a doctor immediately. Don’t try to treat severe neck pain by yourself.
Read More: 10 Essential Oils for Fibromyalgia Pain: Efficacy and Uses
