Essential Oils for Joint Pain: Which Ones and How to Use Them
Maryline HourlierWintergreen, lemon eucalyptus and Italian helichrysum are the essential oils most used to ease joint pain, always diluted in a carrier oil and massaged locally. They do not cure arthritis, but they can soothe pain and stiffness, especially when the cold sets in. Here is how to use them and the precautions to follow.
The 3 essential oils for joints
Wintergreen
Known as “natural aspirin”, it contains methyl salicylate, a molecule close to aspirin. It is used only for massage, diluted, on the painful joint.
Lemon eucalyptus
Valued for its soothing action on inflammation, it suits long-term joint pain well. It blends nicely with wintergreen.
Italian helichrysum
Precious and more expensive, it is appreciated after a knock or when pain comes with swelling.
How to use them
Use about 15 drops of essential oil per 30 ml (1 oz) of carrier oil: sweet almond, arnica or jojoba. Gently massage the joint two to three times a day for a few days, then take a break. Always do a patch test in the crook of your elbow before first use, and wash your hands afterwards.
Cold weather and joints: 5 habits for winter
- Keep your joints warm.
- Move a little every day: walking, gentle stretches.
- A hot water bottle or a warm bath to relax.
- A gentle massage with a suitable essential oil, diluted.
- Omega-3s on your plate: oily fish, walnuts, rapeseed (canola) oil.
Essential precautions
Wintergreen is not for everyone. Avoid it if you are allergic to aspirin, take blood thinners, are pregnant or breastfeeding, and in children. Never swallow it: it is toxic by mouth. Keep the bottle out of children's reach.
More generally, ask your pharmacist if you take any medication, and see your doctor if the joint is red, hot and swollen, if the pain starts suddenly or comes with a fever.
Go further
In my ebook “Taking Action Against Back Pain and Rheumatic Pain” (€14.90), I detail the essential oils, plants, exercises and postures for osteoarthritis, arthritis, sciatica and lumbago.
Prefer to learn by video? Discover my online course on back pain, rheumatism and arthritis.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best essential oil for joint pain?
Wintergreen is the best known, thanks to an action close to that of aspirin. Lemon eucalyptus and Italian helichrysum complement it. All are used diluted in a carrier oil and massaged locally.
How do you dilute an essential oil for massage?
Use about 15 drops of essential oil per 30 ml (1 oz) of carrier oil such as sweet almond, arnica or jojoba, and do a patch test in the crook of your elbow first.
Who should not use wintergreen oil?
People allergic to aspirin, people taking blood thinners, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children. It must never be swallowed.
Can essential oils cure arthritis?
No. They can help ease pain and stiffness alongside your medical care, but they do not cure arthritis.
Read next
- Relieve back pain naturally
- 5 essential oils for the whole family
- Strengthen your immune system naturally before winter
This article gives general information and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. Sources: Arthritis Foundation, Aromatherapy for Arthritis Relief; Healthline, Wintergreen Oil; Anses, Vigil'Anses no. 24 (in French).