Overview

Neck pain can be due to many factors. It may be caused by poor posture, stress, overexertion or sleeping badly. Whatever the cause, you probably want fast relief.  Many people want to avoid taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs. You should consult your doctor for advice especially if the pain is severe or chronic. However, if you want to try an at-home treatment, you can use essential oils to help relieve your pain.

Certain essential oils reduce spasms, loosen up muscles and generally provide pain relief. Some of the most effective oils are chamomile oil, clove oil, peppermint oil, marjoram oil, basil oil, and lavender oil. These can be used in varying combinations depending on the cause of the pain.

Chamomile Oil

Chamomile oil is extracted from the flowers of either the German or Roman varieties of the plant. It can help improve physical function and reduce stiffness. The German variety is most effective at relieving pain caused by inflammatory conditions.  Two drops mixed with a carrier oil are enough to improve circulation and ease tense muscles.

Clove Oil

Clove oil is extracted from the unopened buds of unopened buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree. It can provide rapid relief from muscle soreness caused by overexertion. Clove oil should be mixed with a carrier oil and massaged into the sore areas of the neck.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is extracted from the flower of the plant. It contains menthol which has a cooling effect on painful muscles. Peppermint oil decreases pain and reduces inflammation and muscle spasms. Two to three drops can be mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the painful areas of the neck.

Marjoram Oil

Marjoram Oil is derived from the leaves, flowers or bud through steam distillation. It reduces muscle spasms, increases circulation and promotes relaxation. It blends well with other oils and can be used as a muscle rub.

Basil Oil

Basil oil decreases pain, spasms, and inflammation. It is also very energizing and uplifting to the mood. Basil oil is steam distilled from the leaves and flowering tops. It can be mixed with a carrier oil and gently massaged into the neck. You can also add it to your bath water along with Epsom salt for a relaxing effect.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is derived from the flower spikes via distillation. It reduces muscle spasms, inflammation, and stress. Lavender oil is one of the few essential oils which can be applied directly to the skin. It can also be mixed with other oil and applied to the affected area.

Essential Oil Blends Which Can Relieve Neck Pain

While the above oils can be effective on their own, you can also try some blends to relieve your neck pain. These combinations can be chosen based on the nature of your pain. If your pain is caused by stress or muscle tension, try mixing a couple drops of lavender and marjoram oils with a carrier oil or a couple drops of peppermint and lavender. For constant pain or neck pain which turns into a headache, you can combine more oils.

It is important to remember that you must dilute most essential oils with carrier oils before applying them topically. Coconut oil, grapeseed oil, and jojoba oil are excellent carrier oils. In most cases, you only need two or three drops of any essential oil since they are quite potent. You should try to source carrier oils of the highest grade since they also have healing properties.  Store the mixtures dark glass jars. If you’re using any oil for the first time, conduct a patch test before applying it to large areas of your body.

You should consult a medical doctor if you are concerned about allergic reactions or you have ongoing medical problems. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should also be cautious.