6 Best Essential Oils for Muscle Knots (Evidence-Based)

Looking for essential oils for muscle knots? You have found the right page.

In this article, you’ll read about some of the best essential oils for muscle knots that are evidence-based and considered safe to use.

Read: Essential Oils for Sleep Apnea

The Best Essential Oils for Muscle Knots

best essential oils for muscle knots

Here are some of the best essential oils:

1. Lavender Essential Oil

It is well-known to provide both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which can relieve strained and cramping muscles.

The calming and relaxing properties of lavender are beneficial in treating muscle knots by easily promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.

Not only this but it also promotes blood circulation to the affected area, which is excellent in relieving muscle knots and muscle spasms.  

A 2016 study found that lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which make it very effective in treating the pain associated with muscle stress and tension.

2. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus oil is a potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic agent which means it can be very effective in managing muscle knots.

It has been traditionally used to treat joint pain, muscle knots, muscle pain, arthritis, and other related conditions.

According to this study, the combinational use of eucalyptus essential oil, ethanol, and peppermint essential oil has muscle-relaxing and mental relaxing effects, which can greatly help with stress induced-muscle knots.

3. Chamomile Essential Oil

Chamomile essential oil is known for its calming and relaxing effects, which are very effective in relieving pain and discomfort associated with many different conditions.

The oil also has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that make it effective in reducing pain and inflammation which are common symptoms of muscle knots.

A study that was published in 2010 found that inhaling chamomile oil reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality in patients with generalized anxiety disorder, which might cause muscle knots and muscle spasms.

The same study shows that using this essential oil reduced pain and inflammation in patients with this and related conditions.

4. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

It is another great essential oil that can help you insanely with muscle knots.

Eucalyptus essential oil when massaged on the affected area creates a cooling effect that can help reduce the sensation of pain and soreness in the affected area.

According to this study, this essential oil can as well reduce inflammation that seriously contributes to muscle soreness.    

These and many other benefits contribute to the reason why this essential oil is used in many body massage oils.

It can revitalize skin and tired muscles and promotes a feeling of relaxation, which helps you manage stress-induced muscle knots.    

5. Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential has amazing anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which can help reduce muscle tension and related symptoms.  

Some studies reveal that massaging the affected area with rosemary essential oil can promote blood circulation, reduce muscle pain and promote muscle relaxation.

6. Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil is well known for its soothing and pain-relieving properties, which are both beneficial in patients experiencing, muscle knots.

When massaged on the affected area, it has a cooling effect on the skin, which can help reduce inflammation and ease muscle tension.

Studies suggest that the citral in lemongrass helps ease muscle tension and muscle pain.

Read: Essential Oils for Circulation in Legs

Precautions!

  • Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before use
  • Do not use essential oils if you are pregnant or lactating
  • Do not apply on open wounds

Side Effects

  • Skin irritation
  • Photosensitivity
  • Eye redness and watery eyes
  • Nausea and Vomiting

How to Use Essential Oils for Muscle Knots?

Following are some of the best ways to use these essential oils:

1. Massage

Dilute a few drops of your favorite essential oil with a carrier oil and massage the mixture in the affected area.

Repeat it daily 2-3 times for at least 1 week and you’ll see great results.

2. Bath

Add a few drops of any essential oil of your choice to a warm bath and soak in it for 20-30 minutes. Do this every time you go for a bath.

3. Compress

Put a few drops of your favorite essential oil in a bowl of lukewarm water and soak a clean cloth. Wring the cloth and place it on the affected area.

The Bottom Line!

The above-mentioned essential oils for muscle knots are some of the best and safest essential oils available.

For most people, they are safe to use. However, if you notice any discomfort with the use, stop it and consult with your doctor.


The content present on this page has not been evaluated by any medical authorities e.g FDA. All the information present is solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for the medical advice provided by your physician. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or illness.


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