Basil (Ocimum basilicum) Basil is widely used for muscular aches and pains and for relieving stress and tension. When diluted and applied topically, basil is a powerful anti-inflammatory and is also an effective antispasmodic.
Scent: herbaceous, fresh, green, sweet
Safety: may irritate sensitive skin, and should not be used during pregnancy.
Applications: oral, topical, inhalation
Other Uses: eczema, psoriasis, inflamed skin, depression, digestive concerns
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Ginger is great for warming the joint to relax stiffness and pain. It works as an antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic making it a great choice for pain, stiffness, inflammation, and spasms.
Scent: spicy, warm, woody
Safety: this could interact with blood pressure, aspirin, anti-platelet, and anticoagulant medication. May irritate sensitive skin
Applications: oral, topical, inhalation
Other Uses: colds, flu, nausea, vomiting, coughs, rheumatism, circulatory problems
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Lavender has analgesic properties that can soothe pain associated with arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions. It is analgesic, anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic. When used for arthritis, Lavender oil helps promote healing.
Scent: floral, sweet, slightly fruity notes
Safety: Do not use during the first trimester of pregnancy
Applications: oral, topical, inhalation
Other Uses: skin irritation, burns, colds, stress, anxiety, high blood pressure, migraines
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus)
Lemongrass enhances the repair process of connective tissue. It’s also helpful in promoting blood circulation, which can lead to faster healing. Lemongrass is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic when applied topically.
Scent: fresh, bright, fruity, earthy
Safety: Avoid use in individuals with glaucoma, during the first trimester of pregnancy, and with a history of high blood pressure. Use caution in prostatic hyperplasia, skin hypersensitivity, and damaged skin.
Applications: oral, topical, inhalation
Other Uses: anti-depressant, stimulant, nerve pain, pest control, respiratory concerns
Marjoram (Origanum majorana) Marjoram is a wonderful oil to use in massage for painful joints, or in a warm compress. It’s helpful with sports injuries, aching muscles, and fatigued muscles and joints as well as swelling, sprains, and spasms. Marjoram is a great relaxant, analgesic, antispasmodic, antiarthritic, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilator.
Scent: herbaceous, woody, earthy
Safety: Generally non-toxic, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing
Applications: oral, topical, inhalation
Other Uses: respiratory concerns, calming, relaxing digestive concerns.
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) Wintergreen contains methyl salicylate, which is similar to aspirin. Wintergreen essential oil is great for relieving pain, inflammation, and rheumatic conditions.
Scent: Minty, medicinal
Safety: Avoid use in pregnancy and in children under age 12. Use caution while nursing. Caution with severe liver or kidney disease.
Applications: topical, inhalation
Other Uses: increase blood flow, stimulant, antiseptic serves as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic
