Wellness Wednesday: Essential Oils for Aches and Pains
Essential oils have been used for centuries to aid the human body. Many different cultures have found use for trees and plants throughout the world, so why have WE in the western world decided that they are bunk? That only medicines made in a lab are worth promoting? While I do believe modern medicine definitely has its place, and that countless lives have been saved from it, I also know that when used together, ancient and modern practices can be used to heal our ailing bodies.
With winter coming on, our muscles and joints tend to "freeze up" (yes, pun intented). My back starts to ache and after having kids my hips bug me, too. Usually my go-to for pain is Ibuprofen, but with strong autoimmune diseases in my family, my intake has been drastically decreased to practically nil. SOOOO what can I do?
Along with my trusty rice heat bag, there are some essential oils I have in my cabinet. These are what I categorize as "mommy and daddy oils" because they are to be handled with care and are very potent.
Birch: A warming oil used for muscle injuries, pain and spasms, as well as arthritis, rheumatism, ulcers and cramps. Apply topicaly to affected area, dilute as needed. **NOT for internal use. Avoid if pregnant or epiliptic.
Wintergreen: It naturally has Methyl Salicylate which is related to a chemical that is in Asprin (thus its awesome pain reducing powers!). It is also used for arthritis, rheumatism, and cramps. It can also be added to shampoo to help with dandruff. Wintergreen is another oil to be "handled with care" and always diluted for topical use because it is very potent. Never diffuse alone (mix with other oils) and never consume/ingest.
Amend: A Soothing blend (see comparison chart for Doterra/Young Living equivalent) made from a blend of corsican helichrysum, blue chamomile, blue tansy, roman chamomile, carrot seed, and French lavender. It is great for muscle, back and joint pain, arthritis and aches, muscle tention, pre/post workout, and growing pains. Should be applied diluted and never ingested.
Amend +: (From Spark Natural's Website) A proprietary blend of essential oils chosen and blended that may assist in pain relief including Birch, Rosemary, Marjoram, Frankincense, Black Pepper, Peppermint, Basil, Cedarwood, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Roman Chamomile, and Sandalwood pure essential oils. With no added carrier oil, Amend+ is incredibly potent, allowing you to dilute it for your skin needs and preference. This blend is perfect for use by athletes or for acute muscle or joint pain relief. It is designed for topical use and is not recommended for children, pregnant women, or anyone who is allergic to aspirin products.
~Madeline~
*EDITED TO NOTE: THESE ARE ON SALE THIS WEEK AT SPARK NATURALS-GET 10% OFF THE SALE PRICE WITH COUPON CODE:SEED