Simply Soulful
Self-Care for Aches, Pains & Inflammation

Self-Care for Aches, Pains & Inflammation Using Essential Oils
In last month’s Yoga, Nutrition & Oils Masterclass, we looked at self-care for aches, pains and inflammation.
As we continue to slowly, but surely transition towards the Winter Solstice, the day with the shortest amount of daylight and the longest night of the year – we are inclined to withdraw from the outside world and seek solstice inside, both emotionally and physically. Now (as always) is a good time to practise self-care, the cold air can often get into our joints, leaving us feeling stiff and achy. Sadly, many people live in constant pain, or a state of inflammation; for some this can be acute inflammation (short-term), for other it may be chronic (long-term).
Healthy inflammation is a necessary part of the immune system. Symptoms can include swelling, redness, pain, heat, reduced function. Acute inflammation is a one-time trigger or event i.e. intense physical training, cold, flu, headache, wound, sore throat. Chronic inflammation is long-term, where the body is unable to resolve the original cause of inflammation and/or where body identifies normal body tissue as a pathogen and creates antibodies in defence (auto immune conditions) i.e. asthma, arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis.
The hormone, cortisol produced by the adrenals, is a powerful anti-inflammatory, integral to the inflammatory response. When we become physically and emotionally stressed, the adrenals produce insufficient cortisol; inflammation and pain is the result.
Natural remedies can be highly effective in the treatment of inflammation and pain, by supporting the body in doing its job, and often get to the root of the problem, rather than just treating the symptom.
Single Essential Oils:
Frankincense – Relieves, sciatica, back pain, headaches. Supports immune system, cellular health and skin regeneration
Copaiba – Relieves pain and inflammation
Helichrysum – Reduces pain, promotes healing, chelates toxins
Wintergreen – Soothes aches and pains, warming effect, cortisone effect, supports bone healing
Peppermint – Reduces inflammation and pain, cooling effect
Ginger – Promotes circulation, healing to bones and muscles, stimulates nerves
Black pepper – Relieves pain and inflammation, promotes circulation
Rosemary/ Basil – Promotes circulation and healing, calms nerves
Doterra Essential Oil Blends:
Soothing/ Deep Blue blend – Stimulates nerves and reduces inflammation
Tension/ Past Tense Blend – Soothes joints and tissues
Massage/ Aroma Touch Blend – Stimulates circulation and blood flow
Some useful remedies for you to try …
Headache Relief
Ingredients:
7 drops peppermint
5 drops lavender
5 drops frankincense
Method:
Combine essential oils in a 5ml roller bottle. Fill with carrier oil. Shake. Apply as needed and repeat every 30 minutes until relief is achieved.
Joint & Arthritis Relief
Ingredients:
4 drops juniper berry
3 drops marjoram
3 drops roman chamomile
3 drops ginger
3 drops helichrysum
Method:
Combine essential oils in a 5ml roller bottle. Fill with carrier oil. Shake. Apply as needed OR add essential oils to half a cup of Epsom salt and stir into warm bath.
If you would like to attend my Yoga, Nutrition & Oils Masterclass Series, a module programme with a different focus each month, please visit my website.
If you would like to find out more about essential oils and how they can benefit your health, please visit my online Doterra Essential Oil Shop
If you have any essential oil recipes that you have tried and enjoyed, feel free to let me know …. Wishing you a happy and healthy Winter Solstice…. X