When it comes to pain relief, many people search their medicine cabinets for an over-the-counter pill bottle. Nature, however, has given us safe and effective ways to relieve pain, without all of the unwanted side effects. There's one essential oil in particular that has amazing pain relief properties. You might want to dump those pain pills and stock up on this instead!
Helichrysum Essential Oil
Also known as the curry plant, Helichrysym Italicum is a plant with warm yellow flowers and a curry-like fragrance. This herb is native to Europe. It can be found flowering in France, Italy and neighboring countries. It only grows in a few regions, so helichrysym can be a little costly. But it's pain relieving benefits are worth it!
How Does It Work?
While over-the-counter pills are a common way to get rid of pain, they can also be dangerous to your liver and other parts of your body. Helichrysum essential oil is non-toxic and non-irritating. It can be applied to the skin without being diluted. Here's what you can use it for:
Reducing inflammation and removing toxins from the body
Preventing bruising and blood clots
Relaxing tight muscles and connective tissue
Promoting cellular regeneration
While most over-the-counter medications work only as a temporary pain reliever, helichrysum essential oil helps get to the root of the problem. Pain relief from this essential oil is known to start working almost immediately.
How To Use It
Helichrysum can be applied topically. It's effective for virtually all pain in the muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments. You can use it for anything, from back pain or joint pain to tender bruises or discomfort from a sprain. Depending on the pain, helichrysum can be applied one of two ways.
1. Acute Pain
If the pain you're experiencing is due to something temporary, such as a burn or a twisted ankle, apply the undiluted oil to the affected spot. After the injury has calmed, dilute the oil to about 20% using a carrier oil such as olive oil or jojoba. This follow-up treatment can be massaged into the affected area frequently, until the injury has been fully healed.
2. Chronic Cases Of Pain
If the pain you're experiencing is chronic, you'll want to dilute the oil. Use a carrier oil and start at a low dilution, such as 5%. Work your way up only if necessary. About 40 drops of helichrysum in 1 ounce of your chosen carrier oil will create a 5% dilution. Doubling the amount of drops per ounce will make a 10%.
Want To Add A Warming Or Cooling Effect?
For certain types of pain, a warming effect can feel extremely soothing. This can be achieved by mixing different essential oils. To add a warming effect to your oil, add ginger and/or black pepper essential oils to you helichrysum. A warming effect might help with arthritis pain. It can improve circulation to the affected area. If you want the opposite effect, add some peppermint oil to your helichrysum for a cooling sensation.
Check out the video below for more information on the benefits on helichrysum oil!
