7. Marjoram
Especially effective as a topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory, marjoram eases muscle stiffness, allowing for a freer range of movement. (9) With sedative and antispasmodic properties, applying marjoram essential oil topically for muscle pain loosens any tightness you may have. A small study in Britain in which an essential massage oil blend (including marjoram) was used daily on patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease showed a marked improvement of symptoms in less than 3 months. (10)
8. Rose
Rose oil can effectively reduce menstrual pain if applied topically and massaged into the abdomen. It’s even gentle enough for children’s aromatherapy. (11, 12)
9. Eucalyptus
This is a potent oil so it’s best not to take internally. Inhale it instead!
Eucalyptus is a top essential oil for muscle pain as well as swelling and congestion. In a study published in 2013 found that eucalyptus oil reduces pain and blood pressure of post-op surgery patients. (13) Inhaling eucalyptus relieves sinus congestion while its antibacterials work to help the body rid itself of harmful germs.
10. Fennel
An effective herb for menstrual pain, diluted fennel is safe to take internally. (14) In addition, fennel is very effective at easing colic in babies.
“Despite its benign, natural course, colic is a significant problem in infants and imparts a psychological, emotional, and physical burden to parents. Dicyclomine hydrochloride is the only pharmacological treatment for infantile colic that has been consistently effective. Unfortunately, 5% of infants treated with dicyclomine hydrochloride develop serious side effects, including death. Fennel seed oil has been shown to reduce intestinal spasms and increase motility of the small intestine…There was a significant improvement of colic in the treatment group compared with the control group…Side effects were not reported for infants in either group during the trial,” writes the researchers of a 2003 study. (15)
11. Bergamot
The key flavor in Earl Grey tea, this herb contains carvacrol just as thyme and oregano do. A proven anti-inflammatory, bergamot essential oil can soothe sore muscles by reducing the enzymes that cause swelling. (16) Bergamot oil can be used topically to heal cold sores, mouth ulcers, chicken pox, and shingles. Moreover, it can also kill parasites!
12. Yarrow
Its leaves and stems are effective in topically treating skin conditions. Take yarrow tea to cure respiratory and gastrointestinal infections and support the liver and gallbladder. Moreover, fleas and ticks don’t like yarrow; so be sure to use it as a potent insect repellant.
13. Chamomile
Soothing and healing, chamomile tea and oil reduce inflammation. Applied topically, it’s effective for gum swelling and bleeding.