A trigger finger can be very painful. But don’t worry, as some effective essential oils are for trigger finger relief.
The condition makes your thumb or fingers get locked and stiff when you try to bend them. [1] It feels like a trigger is being pulled and released when you bend it.
Your finger may get locked in a bent position if your trigger finger is severe. People whose work involves repetitive gripping actions are at risk of getting a trigger finger. This condition is prevalent in women more than men and those with diabetes.
Researchers claim the beneficial effects of essential oils to soothe the condition. [2]
This article reviews the efficacy and use of certain essential and natural oils for trigger finger, plus the causes and symptoms of trigger finger condition.
6 Essential Oils for Trigger Finger-Based on Evidence
1. Aloe Vera Oil
Aloe Vera contains twelve different substances. These consist of B-sister olé, which helps in stabilizing inflammation. [5] Aloe vera oil may enhance joint flexibility and lower pain.
The herbal oil may also soothe the inflamed skin in the trigger finger treatment. The nutrients of the aloe vera may ease the pain faster and make your finger movements easier.
How to use aloe vera oil for trigger finger:
To get relief from the trigger finger, you can apply 2-3 drops of aloe vera oil daily on your affected area.
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2. Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil can treat various conditions such as oral health, stress, weak immune system, etc. The anti-inflammatory nature of the oil assists in reducing the risk of inflammation. [6]
Learn how you can use frankincense essential oil for the trigger finger:
- You can apply 2-3 drops of diluted frankincense oil to your affected finger.
- Apply it regularly to reduce the pain and inflammation of a trigger finger.
3. Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil originates from the seed of the evening primrose plant. People use it for many skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It even works well to treat rheumatoid arthritis and weak bones. [9]
Several herbalists consider it one of the trigger finger’s top essential oils.
Primrose oil is considered a supplement and natural cure for those who have rheumatism or joint pain. As a result, several medical communities are using primrose oil.
How to use evening primrose oil for trigger finger:
Massage 2-3 drops of evening primrose oil on your finger daily. You may experience vast improvements in your trigger finger treatment.
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4. Ginger Oil
Ginger is a common spice in the kitchen that may serve as a natural home remedy for trigger fingers. It is famous worldwide for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. [8]
These therapeutic components may assist you in coping with the terrible pain in the fingers. [9]
Ginger oil is good for relieving pain. [10]
Ginger oil has warming and soothing substances. A topical application of ginger oil may ease pain and promote healthy blood circulation. Generally, it is safe to use ginger oil. It is non-irritating and non-toxic.
How to use ginger essential oil for trigger finger:
- You can dilute the ginger oil with any other carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. Then, apply it on your affected fingers.
- For better results, mix it with other essential oils. Some of these oils include frankincense, bergamot, ylang-ylang oils, etc.
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Other Home Remedies for Trigger Finger Using Natural Oils
5. Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for trigger finger treatment. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The fatty acids in fish oil may assist the damaged tissues resulting from the trigger finger. [7]
The omega-3 fatty acids lubricate the joints and ease the pain of the trigger finger.
Try fish oil to soothe your joint pain:
Take fish oil daily as your dietary supplement. Please consult your doctor about the dosage before you take it.
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6. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is considered one of the supplement treatments for trigger fingers at home. Massaging some drops of coconut oil on your affected fingers may give you relief. Coconut oil is beneficial in preventing swelling and inflammation in your fingers. [8]
An easy way to relieve trigger finger using coconut oil:
Pour a few drops of coconut oil on your finger and massage for a few minutes. Continue the process several times daily.
Read More: Coconut Oil for Rosacea: Amazing Benefits & Uses
Causes & Symptoms of Trigger Finger
Trigger finger happens due to the repeated movement of your finger or thumb.
It can also occur when tendons get hard bands of tissue that link bones and muscles in your finger. Inflammation on the thumb may also lead to a trigger finger. [3]
Prolonged irritation in the tendon sheath may lead to thickening and scarring. It will affect the tendon’s motion.
When this occurs, bending your finger or thumb affects the inflamed tendon.
Watch out for these signs if you think you have a trigger finger:
- You may experience an agonizing clicking when you bend or straighten your finger. It worsens if your finger has been still for quite a long time and it gets better when you move.
- You may feel stiffness in your finger in the morning.
- You may notice a bump at the base of the finger or thumb which medical term refers to as a nodule.
- When you move your finger, popping or clicking happens.
- You might feel your finger is stuck which you can’t straighten.
The symptoms may seem mild initially, but they get more severe with time.
The symptoms are severe after long hours of strenuous work with hands. [4]
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Essential oils may give you relief from the trigger finger to some extent. But you must seek immediate medical care if:
- The symptoms become severe.
- You find it quite impossible to bend your finger.
Also, you may feel your joints getting hot and inflamed. It could be a sign of severe infections, and you should immediately consult with your doctor. [11]
Bottom Line
Essential oils are natural anti-inflammatory agents. Several research claims the efficacy of using essential oils for trigger finger natural treatment.
The essential oils mentioned above can help you to overcome the pain and other symptoms of trigger fingers.
Usually, all these essential oils are safe to be used topically.
But, if you have sensitive skin, then consult with an expert for an appropriate dilution rate of the oils.
If the pain of the trigger finger gets severe with time, then you should visit a doctor immediately.
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