Nerve discomfort can be a sign of several different conditions, including diabetes, shingles, HIV and cancer. For some, nerve pain is irritating; for others, it is demoralizing and life changing. No matter how it feels, nerve pain can disrupt every aspect of your life.
Research shows that people with nerve pain are more likely to experience problems like disturbed sleep, stress, anxiety and depression. On top of that, when you have a major medical condition such as cancer or HIV, dealing with the extra anguish of nerve pain can be an almost impossible thing to do.
While nerve pain cannot be eradicated completely, it can be minimized to an extent that it stops affecting your life – and there are numerous excellent natural options available to do so.
While it is very important to address the root cause of the pain, using essential oils can do a good job at alleviating the discomfort experienced in most cases of nerve pain. Just like any other natural remedy, it might take a little trial and error and/or tweaking to figure out the best essential oil mix for a person, however it is well worth it.
When figuring out which essential oils to use for your condition, consider what the condition triggering the pain is, what the intensity of the pain is, as well as the psychological element involved.
What Is Nerve Pain?
Although there are 3 types of nerves, neuropathic pain is only caused by sensory nerves. It can be the result of nerve damage, inflammation or lesions in the nerve path that can occur due to an injury, infection or a chronic ailment. The damaged nerves misfire and send pain impulses to the brain even when there isn’t an actual painful stimulus involved.
To add to the problem, neuropathic discomfort is often chronic and intensifies over a period of time. In fact, so profound is the impact of the pain on the life and the emotional wellbeing of the patient that antidepressants are often recommended to control the psychological ramifications of the discomfort.
What Causes Nerve Pain?
There are various causes of nerve pain, including the following:
1. Trauma
This is the most obvious cause of nerve damage and subsequent pain. Injury to the nerve or compression due to swelling of the muscle/bone fracture or a nerve getting severed due to a deep cut can all lead to neuropathic pain.
2. Degeneration
Repetitive movements can cause nerve damage and lead to pain.
3. Diabetes
Almost 70% diabetics suffer from neuropathic pain due to the nerve damage caused by high glucose levels.
4. HIV
Nearly 40% HIV patients suffer from never pain in the hands and the feet. The infection as well as the drugs used to control it are both known to cause neuropathic damage.
5. Infectious diseases
Not just HIV but also other viral and bacterial infections can lead to nerve pain. Most common among these are ailments like shingles, herpes, Lyme disease and hepatitis C.
6. Nutritional problems
Deficiency of B-12 and excessive amounts of B-6 are both known to cause nerve damage and pain.
7. Cancer
Tumors can lead to nerve compression while chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause nerve damage.
8. Autoimmune disorders
Systemic autoimmune diseases as well as those that specifically target the nerves and the nervous system can cause nerve pain. The autoimmune conditions that can lead to neuropathic discomfort include lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, Guillain-Barré syndrome and multifocal motor neuropathy.
9. Cardiovascular problems
Narrowing of the arteries and circulatory issues can damage the nerves and cause pain.
10. Liver and kidney issues
The accumulation of toxins in the blood caused by liver and/or kidney problems can cause irreversible damage to the nerves.
11. Hormonal imbalance
Because fluctuations in hormone levels have a direct impact on metabolic activity, they can lead to muscle swelling. In turn, this can compress and damage the nerves.
12. Toxicity
Heavy metal toxicity involving arsenic, lead and mercury also causes nerve damage.
The Symptoms Of Nerve Pain
Neuropathic pain can affect a particular part of the body or run along the nerve path. It feels different from muscular and bone discomfort. For instance, the symptoms can be as follows:
- The pain can be felt as a stabbing, burning or shooting sensation.
- It may start at a particular point but will quickly radiate to other parts.
- Often, it feels like a jolt of electricity and is sudden and sharp.
- Nerve damage can cause extreme sensitivity even to stimuli which is not normally painful.
- You may feel pain when brushing or touching the skin or when fabric comes in contact with your skin.
- Pain caused by nerve damage can slow down reflexes.
- Periods of rest don’t always work to alleviate the discomfort.
- Neuropathic pain usually worsens with age.
- The discomfort also tends to intensify at night.
- The pain can be accompanied by other symptoms of nerve damage such as tingling, pricking and numbness.
4 Reasons Why Essential Oils Are Good For Nerve Pain?
1. They help with the pain…
Essential oils that offer warming and cooling effects are in essence counterirritants that help to deplete the chemicals involved in the transmission of pain impulses. So, these natural ingredients offer almost immediate relief from pain, which is often the number one priority when dealing with the shooting/stabbing discomfort that is nerve pain.
2. They work on the inflammation…
These aromatic extracts are also extremely potent anti-inflammatory agents that strike at the very root of the problem by suppressing the immunological response that triggers inflammation.
3. They get rid of infections that cause trouble…
Unlike the offerings of modern medicine, essential oils can eliminate all types of pathogenic critters. Because they help to ward off infections, they also limit the damage that these germs cause, which means that essential oils work on two fronts to control and treat inflammation.
4. They limit the psychological impact of pain…
Chronic pain is a known cause of anxiety and depression. Also, if you are in pain, sleep will, no doubt, elude you. But not if you rely on essential oils!
By night you can use the sedative properties of these oils to lull yourself to sleep, and by day, you can rally the energizing aromas of the oils to chase away fatigue. The best part is that you get both of these benefits without any side effects.
What Are The Best Essential Oils To Use For Nerve Pain?
Whilst every essential oil has beneficial properties of its own, the effectiveness of some oils in dealing with nerve pain like pinched nerves is more than others. In my humble experience, some oils work well for nerve discomfort, while others are more suited to dealing with muscle or joint conditions. When dealing with nerve pain, the lamiaceae family are a reliable source to consider.
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14 Essential Oils To Get Rid Of Nerve Pain
1. Eucalyptus
The analgesic effects of this oil are just as well-known as its camphorous aroma. Yet, few know that the cooling sensation offered by this aromatic extract works not just on sore muscles but also on frayed nerves, and quite literally so.
The ability of this oil to control heightened neuropathic sensitivity comes courtesy of 1, 8 cineole (eucalyptol), which gives this ingredient its familiar cooling effect. This bioactive is also responsible for the antispasmodic and the anti-inflammatory properties of eucalyptus oil and its distinctive aroma.
2. Chamomile
Of the two chamomiles, Roman has always enjoyed star status owing to its content of chamazulene, while German has been somewhat of a side kick. But when it comes to nerve pain, German chamomile has the super hero traits you need, and these are attributed to its high content of alpha-bisabolol.
This bioactive compound decreases the excitability of the peripheral nerves, thus lowering the intensity of neuropathic pain. As far as azulene is concerned, this phytochemical has an extraordinary ability to control inflammation and it has a sedating effect on the nervous system. So if possible, use a combination of the two chamomiles, but if that cannot be done, opt for German over Roman chamomile.
3. Thyme
The inclusion of this oil is attributed to its thymol content. Another monoterpene with analgesic effects, thymol can actually disrupt the transmission of pain impulses through the nerve network and the spinal cord. Additionally, it controls the inflammatory reaction of the body in response to both oxidative stress and physical injury.
4. Clove
Everybody knows about the analgesic properties of this oil, but most associate it only with tooth pain. Actually, the reason why clove oil works so well on tooth ache is because its active ingredients are exceptionally effective at tackling nerve irritation, inflammation and infection. And that my friends is the reason to include this oil in any blend meant to control nerve pain.
5. Balsam Fir
This is one of those rare oils that was used by medical practitioners from almost all ancient cultures. So it comes as no surprise that present day aromatherapists and holistic practitioners continue to rely on this oil for its ability to heal both the mind and the body.
The combined sweet and pungent woody notes of balsam fir give you many of the mental benefits of forest bathing. And if that is not enough, the bioactives in this oil, like beta-phellandrene, bornyl acetate and both isomers of pinene, help to tackle neuropathic hypersensitivity as well as muscular inflammation, swelling and pain.
6. Frankincense
Another classic choice, this resin derived oil has been used for centuries to control inflammation and the pain and stress that it brings along. Frankincense oil also has noteworthy antimicrobial properties, which are attributed to its very high content of alpha-thujene.
The best part of using this oil is that it’s tough on pain and inflammation but gentle on the skin. So, it can actually take away from the irritating effects of the some of the other oils in the mix.
7. Wintergreen
This oil can be found any many OTC pain formulations all thanks to its content of methyl salicylate or natural aspirin. If you have ever used a liniment or spray for muscular pain, you must have already experienced its analgesic properties. But this one should be reserved for when the pain is too much to bear because aspirin, in any form and regardless of its source, is known to stress the liver.
The anti-spasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and soothing abilities of Wintergreen also help in conditions like muscle knots and spasms, gout, arthritis, joint and muscle pain and nerve swelling.
8. Geranium
The light and breezy floral fragrance feels like the gentle fluid warmth of the spring sun and appeals to almost everybody. But the “happiness inducing” effect of this oil is just one of its several benefits.
Along with the pleasing aroma, you also get boat loads of citronellol and geraniol, which are the main constituents of this oil. These phytochemicals are proven to be effective against neuropathic pain that results from inflammation and the hyper-excitability of the peripheral nerves.
9. Ginger
Long used for nerve pain in Ayurveda, ginger essential oil is a potent peripheral anaesthetic that not only relieves discomfort but also acts as a neuroprotective agent. This aromatic extract is particularly effective when used against nerve pain that results from lesions in the nerve pathway. The warming effect of the oil calms irritated nerves and soothes swollen muscle tissue, while lowering the inflammatory response of the body.
10. Sweet Basil
Although many “spice” and “herb” oils offer pain relieving effects, this is one of the few aromatic extracts that was found to be effective against trigeminal neuralgia. Moreover, the p-cymene in this oil not only helps to reduce inflammation but also controls factors that trigger the body’s inflammatory response.
11. Helichrysum
The only reason this oil does not get the mainstream attention it deserves is because of its steep price tag. Normally, I suggest a substitute but if you are dealing with nerve pain, helichrysum oil is truly the best and most effective.
In fact, I’d go so far as to say that the unique combination of bioactive compounds in this oil makes it worth every cent you pay for it.
12. Lavender
There is a reason this oil finds a place in the essential oil kits of professionals, DIYers and newbies alike. Its pleasing aroma helps to chase away the mental trauma of chronic pain while its active constituents offer antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Plus, there are scores of studies that back the efficacy of this oil when used to treat peripheral neuropathy.
13. Sweet Marjoram
With its soothing warmth and pungent-herbaceous odor, this oil is a popular choice for pain relief, whether the discomfort involves muscle fatigue or nerve irritation.
A powerful healing agent, sweet marjoram oil does more than just control the pain and inflammation. It actually helps to heal nerve damage, and any strides in this direction can go a long way in alleviating neuropathic pain.
14. Peppermint
The icy cool effect of this oil offers almost immediate relief from pain, while its herbaceous and minty fresh odor chases away fatigue and anxiety. But, the list of the benefits of peppermint essential oil runs quite long.
The anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic oil is one of the richest sources of menthol, which acts as a counterirritant and blocks the excitation of the nerves in response to inflammation and injury. Moreover, this oil regulates the body’s endogenous/natural pain relief mechanism. Put all of those benefits together and you get a complete pain relief solution in just one oil.
So, here we come to the end of the list of essential oils that are useful for treating nerve conditions. As mentioned before, which oils you end up contributing to your blend will depend upon who the mix is for and what the cause and extent of the pain is.
How To Use Essential Oils For Nerve Pain?
1. For sciatic nerve pain
It is estimated that at least 40% of all people will experience sciatica nerve pain at least once in their life. Sciatica is not a condition but the symptom of sciatica nerve irritation. In the majority of cases, the irritation is caused by an injury that results in a herniated disc. However, disc degeneration due to repetitive movements can also lead to sciatica.
Because it is the largest nerve in the human body that starts in the lower back and runs through the buttocks and along the length of both legs, any problems with this nerve can have serious health ramifications.
Sciatica nerve pain is often intense to the point of being debilitating. It can be mild in the beginning, but the discomfort intensifies as the irritation increases and leads to greater inflammation of the nerve. It is a radiating pain that starts in the lower back area and shoots down one/both legs.
Because this nerve controls the movement of the lower limbs, sciatica also causes weakness in the legs and impacts your ability to move about. Surgery is the only treatment option available, but it’s rarely recommended because the risks generally outweigh the benefits.
The alternative to surgery is the consistent use of pain killers and antidepressants, and we all know that these drugs have serious side effects. So, stay away from those pain pills and use this essential oil blend instead. You will need:
Recipe 1: massage blend
- 60 ml light carrier oil
- 8 drops each of lavender and frankincense
- 5 drops clove
- 7 drops peppermint
- 4 drops wintergreen (optional only if pain is intense. Make a separate blend containing wintergreen, which should only be used occasionally)
Method
Mix the oils together and store in a dark glass bottle. Massage on the sore areas, moving your hands down and away from the spine, along the nerve path. Use gentle downward strokes without exerting a lot of pressure on the nerve. The last thing you want to do is to irritate the nerve further. Follow with the recipe below.
Recipe 2: hot compress
- 2 cups of sea salt/Himalayan pink salt
- 10 drops each of turmeric and ginger
- 1 tsp carrier oil
- An old pillow case
- A string to tie the pillow case and make a salt pack
Method
Mix the oils in a small bowl and set aside. Pour the salt into the pillow case and microwave for 30-40 seconds. Check for heat before taking it out. Add the oil mixture to the salt and mix using a spoon. Don’t spend a lot of time on this as you don’t want the salt to cool.
Just a quick stir and then tie the mouth of the pillow case with a string to make a salt pack. Use as you would a heat pack. I would suggest that you don’t place it directly on your skin at first. Instead, cover your skin with a thin bed sheet for a few minutes and once the heat dissipates a bit, go for direct skin contact. Use this treatment combination 1-2 times a day for best results. If you intend to use the heat pack again on the same day, add half the quantity of oils for round two.
2. For neuralgia
Postherptic neuralgia, which results from shingles related skin and nerve damage, causes burning pain at the site of the blisters even after they subside. Patients describe the discomfort as a burning coal kept on the skin.
But, even that is no match to the intensity of the pain caused by other forms of neuralgia, such as trigeminal, occipital and glossopharyngeal. All of these cause pain in areas above the chest, such as the head, the face, the neck, the jaws and behind the eyes.
Although the pain is short lived and intermittent, its intensity has driven many into depression and even suicide. Neuralgia is simply another term used for nerve pain but in this case, the pain is far more intense and not always the result of damage, inflammation or lesion.
For instance, trigeminal neuralgia is often caused by a major blood vessel that compresses the nerve leading to irritation. Often, there is no precise cause for the pain and nerve irritation. But the pain is excruciating, nonetheless. So, if you are suffering from neuralgia, here is a soothing and calming blend that will help. To make it, you will need:
- 40 ml St John’s wort infused oil (available online or you can make your own by infusing the herb in sesame seed or virgin olive oil).
- 10 drops each of palma rosa and geranium
- 5 drops each of copaiba and sweet basil
- 8 drops peppermint (optional for postherptic neuralgia or when the pain is felt as a burning sensation) (increase carrier oil quantity to 50 ml if adding peppermint)
Method
Mix the oils and store them in a dark glass bottle. You can use the blend to treat the pain as and when required (opt for the peppermint oil included recipe) or as a preventative measure 1-2 times a day. Neuralgia pain is felt along the nerve path, so use a Q tip dipped in the blend to apply along the length of the nerve.
Do a patch test before use because you will be applying it to your face and neck. The blend can also be used on the forehead and on the temples. You don’t have to normally wipe/wash the blend away, after use.
If you want to apply another product, cosmetic or other, simply wipe treated area gently with some warm water. It is recommended that you allow the blend to act on the nerve for at least 3-4 hours before wiping/washing it off.
3. For numbness and tingling
There is a name for that skin crawling feeling that you experience when you sit with your legs crossed for too long or sleep with one arm under your body. It’s called paresthesia, and while it isn’t painful, it sure does get your attention.
It is caused when the blood flow or nerve impulse flow from a particular body part is blocked for some reason. Imagine a traffic bottleneck of sorts to the point where all cars come to a standstill. That is pretty much what happens when the nerve impulse/ blood flow get blocked due to compression force or because of any factor that impacts the circulatory or nervous system.
The block is what causes the numbness and once it is released, the impulses start flowing at twice the speed, leading to hyper sensitivity, and that is felt as prickling and tingling. While most of us only have to put up with this annoying sensation occasionally for those who suffer from diabetes and other health ailments that cause nerve damage and inflammation, paresthesia is a common and almost daily occurrence. Whatever your history with the skin crawling sensation, use this blend to send it packing out of your life. You will need:
- 30 ml carrier oil [preferably ashwagandha (Indian ginseng) infused oil. This can be bought online
- 6 drops each of sweet marjoram and eucalyptus
- 4 drops ginger
- 5 drops rose geranium
Method
Preparation and storage as above. Use this oil to treat and not prevent paresthesia. Apply with a few minutes of vigorous rubbing for best results. If you suffer from diabetes, this blend can help to improve circulation in the extremities but don’t use on open wounds/sores. However, you can use this blend once scabs have formed. Combine with gentle stretching or a few rounds of pacing for fast relief.
4. For nerve pain after surgery
Nerve pain after surgery can result from a myriad of factors and can last for several months or even years after the procedure. There is no surefire way to know if a person will suffer from post-operative neuropathic pain. However, a study have pointed to a possible connection between the intensity of the acute pain experienced after surgery and the likelihood of suffering from chronic neuropathy after the procedure.
What is normal after surgery: Of course you will feel some amount of pain immediately after the surgery. But you can be sure that at least for the first 1-3 days after the procedure, you will be kept on heavy-duty painkillers.
You will be weaned off them gradually, which means that by the 4th or the 5th day, the pain should be bearable and only felt when the wound is touched. If you are experiencing intermittent bouts of intense, shooting pain, you need to talk to your doctor about it. If post-surgery infection is ruled out, chances are that a nerve in the area of the incision is the trouble maker.
Existing neuropathy can cause a problem: The risk factor is understandably high if you have a history of nerve pain or if the surgery is meant to deal with accident related injuries that have impacted a nerve/nerves. Similarly, post-operative complications such as infections can increase the healing time and the body’s immunological response, thus increasing the risk of nerve pain after surgery.
Inflammation causes all the trouble: Usually, post-surgical nerve pain is caused when a nerve gets severed, damaged, entrapped or compressed during the procedure or as the incision heals. There is also mounting evidence that nerve inflammation leads to chronic pain after surgery, even when the nerves are not damaged/entrapped in any way.
Is it post-surgical neuropathy: Nerve pain that results from surgery is always localized at and around the incision site. It is intense and intermittent and felt as a burning or stabbing discomfort.
If you are suffering from post-operative neuropathic pain, here is a blend that can offer significant relief from the discomfort and help in healing the inflamed and irritated nerves. You will need:
- 60 ml Jojoba oil
- 10 drops helichrysum oil
- 3 drops each of rosemary and thyme
- 5 drops each of turmeric and rose geranium
- 7 drops peppermint
Method
Mix the oils and store in a dark colored glass bottle away from sources of light and heat. Use on the incision site after the wound has healed completely and around the incision if it needs more time to heal. Apply as you would any antiseptic ointment, using gentle strokes towards the lymph nodes in the area. You do not have to wash the ointment off.
If you are allowed to shower, a mild soap and some warm water will be enough to keep the affected area clean and prepare it for the next round of treatment. If the wound has not healed enough for you to take a bath, wipe the area of application once a day with some warm chamomile tea. Use twice a day for up to 3 weeks then take a break of one week.
5. For nerve pain from chemo
One of the lasting yet oft ignored side effects of chemotherapy is nerve pain. Since it is not a life threatening condition, it rarely gets the attention it deserves. The pain does not cause physical harm, but it does impact mental health and adds to the fatigue and anxiety that are inherent to both the condition and its treatment.
The extremities are usually the first to be affected by chemo induced neuropathic pain (CINP) and patients start experiencing numbness, tingling, burning and pricking pain as soon as the treatment is started. Unfortunately, there is no telling for how long the pain will last.
In some patients, the discomfort is only experienced for a few weeks after the treatment is stopped/completed. However, there are cases in which the nerve pain turns into a chronic issue. Depending on the intensity of the pain and the patient’s condition, everything from OTC painkillers to opioids and from anticonvulsants to antidepressants can be used to tackle the problem.
Alternative therapies are also known to help and are recommended in this rare instance. In fact, a capsaicin (hot chili pepper oil) patch with lidocaine has shown much promise in alleviating CINP. This proves that inflamed and irritated nerves do react positively to warming oils. Hence, here are two blends that combine the anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, anti-depressive and the heating and cooling effects of EOs for best results. You will need:
For the day blend:
- 60 ml carrier oil
- 10 ml evening primrose oil
- 5 drops each of turmeric, frankincense, geranium and lemon
- 7 drops each of ginger and peppermint
For the night blend:
- 40 ml ashwagandha infused oil (Indian ginseng/ mustard seed carrier oil, not essential oil)
- 4 drops black pepper
- 5 drops eucalyptus
- 7 drops each of sandalwood and lavender
- 4 drops coriander
Method
Mix the oils and store in dark colored glass bottles. Use as you would any massage oil but only on the affected parts. Do not use each blend more than 1-2 times a day and consult with your doctor before using these blends.
6. For nerve pain in back
Most cases of back pain are benign and caused due to physical stress, but this is no reason to rule out nerve inflammation. Let us not forget that your back hosts the spinal cord, so there sure are a lot of nerve roots in this area. Add to this the fact that your back endures a significant amount of stress, regardless of your physical activity levels and it is easy to see why your back pain may find its roots in a nerve root.
Although sciatica is by far the most common cause of nerve pain in the back, a pinched nerve due to an injury can just as well cause neuropathic pain in the middle or upper back. Similarly, incorrect posture, a herniated disc, repetitive movement and spinal arthritis can also lead to nerve compression or damage and end up causing pain.
As with other forms of neuropathy, back pain that is related to nerve inflammation or irritation will have a distinct radiating quality to it. Furthermore, rest may/may not help in easing the discomfort. Compare this with muscular pain, which is often experienced as a deep and throbbing discomfort. That said, neuropathic pain can also lead to other tell-tale symptoms such as tingling and numbness.
Fortunately, surgery is only required in 5-10% cases of nerve related back pain as in most patients, physical therapy, massage and topical pain relief products are enough to treat the discomfort. So, here are two EO blends for nerve pain in the back that can be used with any other form of alternative therapy as well as conventional treatment options. You will need:
For the massage oil:
- 60 ml St John’s wort infused carrier oil
- 7 drops each of balsam fir, eucalyptus and ginger
- 5 drops neroli
- 9 drops German chamomile
Method
Preparation and storage as above. Rub the oil on the sore areas of the back and massage with your fingertips, moving your hands away from and outward from the center of the back. Also move up and down the length of the spine but remember to not rub/ press/put pressure directly on the spine. The bony structure houses the spinal cord, so you don’t want to fool around with it.
The best way to give a back rub is to work on the fleshy area on both sides of the spine. Using your fingers and thumb pad limits the amount of downward pressure that you exert. Apply the oil as soon as you feel the pain/numbness/tingling. Follow with a hot bath.
For the bath:
- 1 cup sea salt/Himalayan pink salt
- 1 tbsp milk (dairy or plant)
- 2 drops each of rose geranium and palma rosa
- 1 drop peppermint
Method
Fill the bath tub with hot water (hot enough for a 15-20 minute soak) and add salt to it. Mix the essential oils with milk and pour the blend into the tub. Agitate the water and soak your back in its soothing goodness for 15-20 minutes. Combine the two treatment options at the end of the day for best results.
7. For nerve pain in neck
The machinery is complex and handles a lot of work and weight, if that is not a recipe for trouble, I don’t know what is. Well folks, that is your neck for you! The technical term for nerve pain in the neck is cervical radiculopathy and more often than not it results from a disc related issue.
Initially, you may experience throbbing pain in the neck, but as the damage and inflammation build, it takes on all the classic traits of neuropathy. For one, nerve pain in the neck will always radiate to the shoulders and even to one or both arms. It will also creep up into the area that joins the neck to the head and will feel like tingling and numbness in this part.
You may also experience prickly pain in the fingers, and your grip may weaken over time along with your ability to interpret sensory inputs. If you have any of these symptoms along with persistent or worsening neck pain, see your doctor about it. Cervical radiculopathy can be a symptom of Cauda equina syndrome, which is a medical emergency.
Like with nerve related back pain, the risks of surgical interventions far outweigh the benefits, which is why you will seldom be asked to go under the knife. So, your best bet is to work with alternative therapies. Yoga, physical therapy, posture improvement exercises and acupuncture can all help immensely. But you are bound to experience pain along the way and this is where essential oils can come to your rescue. This is what you will need:
- 60 ml carrier oils of your choice
- 7 drops each of copaiba and ginger
- 10 drops peppermint
- 9 drops each of lavender and German Chamomile
Method
Preparation and storage as above. This blend can be used to both prevent and treat neuropathic neck pain. For prevention, once a day application will be adequate and for treatment use no more than 2-3 times a day.
You will feel a combined warming and cooling effect within a few minutes of application. Use your finger tips to apply and gently rub into the skin. As stated above, do not put direct pressure on the spine. In fact, when working on the neck, you have to be very gentle. The goal is to soothe the nerve roots and not to irritate them more. Also, apply the blend along the pain pathway that may go from the neck to the shoulders or the arm.
For best results, follow with a hot compress for pain and a cold compress if you have swelling and other signs of inflammation along with the pain.
10 Home Remedies / Treatment For Nerve Pain
1. Say no to sugar
If you want to prevent or treat diabetic neuropathy, you have to keep your blood sugar level in check, there is simply no way around this. Persistent high blood sugar level is what eventually leads to nerve damage and neuropathic pain. So, shut the door on sweets!
2. Inflammation sure does get around
An inflammatory response anywhere in the body causes imbalance and raises the risk of inflammation in other parts. So, try your best to keep inflammation out of your life by making smart dietary choices. Gluten, dairy, refined carbs, saturated and trans fats can cause and increase inflammation. Going healthy with your dietary choices is one of the simplest yet the most effective way to control nerve inflammation and pain.
3. Exercise your way to a pain free life
This may seem counterintuitive at first, but getting off that couch/bed/chair and moving about is one of the best ways to get those nerves to work as they should. A few sun salutations and other yoga postures or 30 minutes of brisk walking or swimming can get your blood pumping and give those nerves the oxygen and nutrients they need to heal.
4. Optimal health comes from optimal nutrition
Depending on your lifestyle and dietary choices, you may suffer from nutritional deficiencies even if you judiciously have your 5-8 servings of fruits and veggies. But, this is one area in which self-medication can have disastrous consequences.
So, before you gulp down a multivitamin talk to your doctor about it. The deficiency of vitamin B 12, B 1, D and E and zinc can cause nutritional related neuropathy. On the other hand, Omega 3 fatty acids are natural and powerful anti-inflammatory agents that can limit nerve inflammation.
5. Steer clear of those vices
Be it smoking, booze or good ol’ java, all of these can cause and exacerbate nerve pain, given their effect on the cardiovascular system.
6. Help yourself to the nervine juice
Put your blender to work and whip up this lip-smacking nervine juice. You will need 4-5 stalks of celery, ½ small carrot (washed and peeled), a handful of elder berries, a ½ inch piece of ginger, 3 large kale leaves and ½ apple or ½ grapefruit. Put all the ingredients in the blender with 1 cup of water and a few ice cubes if required.
7. A hot shower can wash away the pain
When you are seeking pain relief on the double, opt for a hot shower after a soothing massage. For best results, alternate the shower flow between medium and high. Temperature variation also helps when you are dealing with swelling and nerve pain. Simply alternate between hot and cold showers for about 15 minutes and you will not only dull the pain but will also walk out feeling invigorated.
8. Severe ties with stress
Chronic stress leads to excessive cortisol in the body. Even if you have an otherwise healthy lifestyle, this neurochemical can wreak havoc on every one of your physiological systems. So, take a few minutes out each day just to work on your stress levels. You can choose any stress-relieving activity that works for you, but it is important to be committed and consistent.
9. End your day with this healing moon milk
This one is easy to make and delicious. All you need is ¼ tsp turmeric and a pinch of nutmeg along with a cup of milk (dairy or plant; use nut instead of soy) and manuka honey to taste. Put the ingredients together to make a frothy concoction and enjoy 30 minutes before bedtime.
10. Keep that bod hydrated
Dehydration often triggers an inflammatory response in the body. So, nothing keeps inflammation down like H2O and soothing teas like chamomile and lavender.
The Bottom Line
Nerve disorders are highly uncomfortable to deal with. Consequently, more and more people are looking towards using essential oils to help themselves manage this agonizing condition. While being safe and effective for any kind of nerve disorder, essential oils have an instant effect on the brain. Several studies support their ability to affect the nervous system positively and facilitate the healing process.
Hi, my husbands suffers from postherpetic neuralgia. His shingles were around his right side on the belt line so that were his pain continues. On the outside his skin is numb and heavy feeling. On the inside the pain is there. The shingles resulted from a bout with kidney stones, so some of the nerves affected also affect his urination. He is currently taking Gabapentin and Amitriptyline. He would like to get off of both medicines but his pain intensifies when he cuts back as well of the feeling that he has to urinate but can’t. Can you suggest a recipe of oils he could use including specific amount of carrier oil? Should he rub it on his side or make a roll on? How often should he use it, etc. The shingles happened three years ago so this is just the effects since. He is looking for natural remedies because the medicine has terrible side effects. Thanks for your advice!
Hi Liana,
You better consult your doctor. In the meantime, you can refer to the post below for shingles recipes.
Regards,
Olivia
Question from DM:
Would you recommend a combination of oils that might help with pain from Trigeminal Neuralgia? Thank you
Olivia’s Response:
For Trigeminal Neuralgia, you can make up a recipe of 5 drops german chamomile, 8 drops Helichrysum and 3 drops peppermint diluted in 1 ounce sweet almond or jojoba oil. Apply the blend around the ears, along the jawline, across the face to the top of shoulders, sides of neck up to the hairline. Repeat twice a day.
HI Olivia,
I was hoping you could provide a aromatherapy potion for ringing ears which has stemmed from a pinched nerve in my neck…. the issue has been evident for 8 weeks now, getting treatment from my chiropractor with small non cracking adjustments on a weekly basis. This is helping to loosen the muscles in the neck however I moved my head last night and the nerve was flicked and triggered louder ear ringing, I also get some tingling or sensation behind my temples on the side of my head.
the stiff neck is bearable however as it’s loosening up the nerve issue and the ringing ears becomes more prevalent.
Hi Leesa,
Sure, I will have a post on the subject matter (tinnitus) in the coming month or so, stay tuned.
Regards,
Olivia
I have what you call occipital nueraglia it’s where my nerves tell my head to get a migraine what can you recommend me to use via essential oils for that .
Hi Becca,
You could try a mix of 5 drops each of basil, peppermint and 3 drops each of clary sage and nutmeg diluted in 1 ounce carrier oil. Apply twice a day tot he affected areas.
Regards,
Olivia
I have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, a disease caused by nerve damage from surgery to my foot when I broke it. It has spread to both feet, legs and back. I have fire burning pain 24/7. I have weaned off all meds because they make me feel worse. I have not used EO and was wondering where would I start? My sister has started selling them and gave me some samples and diffuser. What should I put in the diffuser?
Hi Marie,
You can follow the recipes in the above post. You can add a few drops of essential oils to your diffuser; you can also use essential oils topically, i.e. dilute the essential oils in a carrier oil and apply to the affected areas.
If you have any other queries, please don’t hesitate.
Regards,
Olivia
In 2015 I had Shingles on my right forehead and around that eye.
When that was over, I ended up with Postherpetic Neuralgia. Hot burning pain that does not respond to over-the-counter painkillers such as Acetaminophen/Paracetamol.
I refuse to use strong Opioids which are highly addictive.
Lately I’ve been experimenting with Geranium oil and Lavender oil, rubbed in gently. What I have is diluted with some other oil and not full strength essential oil. It feels really good and seems to help with the pain.
Let me know how you’re making out using this advice!
David
Hi David,
Sure, I guess just keep doing what actually works for you, both lavender and geranium are great for neuralgia.
There are other EO that you could try including peppermint, wintergreen, clove, yarrow, and some more expensive ones such as Helichrysum and sandalwood.
If you need further help, please don’t hesitate.
Regards,
Olivia
l have shingles on the head and neck too and the pain is awful have been doing some essential oils but am still in so much pain what would be the solution for me
Hi Lea,
You can refer to the article below for shingles. If you have any other queries please don’t hesitate.
Best essential oils for shingles
Regards,
Olivia
Do you still have the pain? Would love to help with EO ideas. Not follow the recipe stated, which was for migraines.
Which ones are you referring to for migraines? I get one at least every other day, and I’m looking to make my own blend.
I also have RSD (from what I’ve read, CRPS is the same as RSD, but my doctor have never said that) from the left side of my neck all the way down to my fingertips….I’m left-handed, so it really causes problems. As with my migraines, I want to make my own blend for RSD.
Hi Wendy,
You can refer to the following posts for migraines:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-essential-oils-for-migraine-relief-for-adults-and-children/
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-essential-oils-for-migraine-headaches/
Regards,
Olivia
I have also been living with CRPS in my entire left leg and foot for four years now, following an ACL replacement in my left knee. I have just started blending essential oils for topical use, as well as for the infuser, and I can say I am getting some pretty good relief with bringing down the edema in my leg, AND I’m also able to touch it without screaming! I’d be happy to share some stuff that has been working for me. Just comment below, so I know you’re still around.
Best,
Shannon
Hi Shannon,
Thanks fort sharing.
Regards,
Olivia
A friend of mine is having neuropathy in his feet. He has had both knees replaced and I’m wondering if it would be safe to use a topical magnesium treatment. Also the topical treatment you are using, are you rubbing just on the leg and feet or on the knees as well?
Hi Sheri,
It is safe to use a topical magnesium treatment, however I would check with a doctor to be on the safe side. You can apply topically on legs, feet and knees.
Regards,
Olivia
What Blends are you using? Had knee replacement 7 months ago and I now have the tingling in my left lower leg. I’m so afraid I have CRPS. What is working for you?
Shannon,
I have a friends daughter who has crps and medications have not helped much. I would love to know what oils have worked for you?
I would love to learn about your methods of treatment. I have severe carpel tunnel on both arms that sometimes extends all the way up to my shoulder.
My left shoulder more than likely has small tears, a muscle issue not nerve, from weightlifting.
Thank you.
Hi Christi,
I’ll have a full post on tunnel carpel in a few weeks.
Regards,
Olivia
Where can I find the carpel tunnel treatment?
Hi Patricia,
The article has not been published yet, should be in a few weeks.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi,
I have diffuse small fiber neuropathy and am wondering what oils Shannon from January used to help treat pain from her SRPS.
Thank you,
Diana
I too am dealing with CRPS with hypersensitivity on my right side can you tell me what blends of essential oils you have to desensitize so that when you do touch you don’t have to scream I thought I was the only one
Hi Carla,
You can use a blend of 3-4 drops each of wintergreen, peppermint, marjoram, clove and helichrysum diluted in 1 ounce of carrier oil (almond, coconut, etc.). Apply to the affected areas 2 x day.
Regards,
Olivia
DO YOU HAVE SOME CRPS BLENDS AND RECIPES FOR CRPS YOU CAN SHARE WITH ME?
Hi Krista,
You could try a blend of 4 drops each of frankincense, geranium, black spruce and blue tansy diluted in almond oil. Apply to the affected areas twice a day.
Regards,
Olivia
What’s the best recipe for Nueropathy in hands and feet, and the ratio. Which brand of EO would you recocomend? Thanks in advance
Hi Jerry,
I’ll have a full article on neuropathy in about a month or so. Please bear with me. I can recommend RMO without any hesitation.
Regards,
Olivia
Thank you , looking forward to this
Hi Jerry,
You’re welcome.
Regards,
Olivia
Olivia, I’d be interested in your upcoming article on Neuropathy as well. Please sent it to my email address.
Thanks!
David
Hi David,
Sure.
Regards,
Olivia
When will you be putting out your article on Nueropathy?
Hi Jerry,
I’ve had various requests on this, so I’ll get it up this week.
Regards,
Olivia
Where will this info be posted to assure I don’t miss it. I have a friend who needs help with neuropathy pain in her feet and fingers. Due to chemo treatment
Hi Deanna,
The article was posted about 2 weeks ago, stay subscribed so you don’t miss any upcoming newsletters.
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-neuropathy-everything-you-need-to-know-for-neuropathic-pain-treatment/
Regards,
Olivia
thanks for the great list of oils and blends! With your list, I’ve had great results managing my neuralgia. I can’t believe how much it’s helped! Keep up the great work!
Hi Bethy,
My pleasure and thanks for letting me know about your experience using essential oils for neuralgia.
Regards,
Olivia
hi Olivia
what’s the recipe for wrist and arm nerve pain?
Hi Lori,
You could try 7 drops wintergreen, 4 drops cypress and 2 drops frankincense diluted in 1 ounce (30ml) coconut oil. Gently rub on the affected areas three times per day.
Regards,
Olivia
Hello. My name is Nesa. I am new to working with essential oils. I created a bug repellant with itch relief. It works on my dog too repelling mosquitos, fleas, and tics. Due to liver disease i developed severe swelling from fluid retention in my legs, feet, and abdomen, also dry skin in those areas. Which it turn caused my Peripheral Neuropathy. I know I need more oils, but is there a recipe you can give me…..I only have lemongrass, peppermint, tea tree,eucalyptus, and coconut oil as a carrier. HELP PLEASE!! Also, can you tell me the other oils that I need. I saw that rosemary oil is good for pain too. I don’t wanna take too many drugs…Lyrica works, but I want something natural so I can cut down on the use of Lyrica.
Thank you in advance
Nesa😢🙃
Hi Nesa,
You can make up a recipe for neuropathy using the oils you currently have. Add 4 drops lemongrass, 6 drops peppermint and 3 drops each of peppermint and tea tree in 1 ounce of coconut oil. Rosemary is optional and you don’t necessarily need it in the recipe. Apply the blend up to three times per day on the affected areas.
Regards,
Olivia
Thank you so very much. I appreciate you.
Hi Nesa,
No worries.
Regards,
Olivia
To Nesa ,
I was also on Lyrica for my nerve pain for 2 to 3 years i put on so much weight because of it but they didnt tell me that I was also having black outs ..i took my self off them and started using essential oils for everything i even clean with them… anyway i use frankincense, Lemongrass and ginger in a carrier oil ..I use it all the time its in a roll on , i also have it in a dropper as well for night time so i can sleep abit better,as well as I change it after a couple of months just so my body keeps getting the benefits of using the oils ..I use geranium, ginger and marjoram as well eucalyptus and peppermint…its good to change them …i still have good days and some ok days with pain but not as bad and im happy to say at lease i’m not having hash chemical so thats a bonus … i hope this is helpful..
Hi Christina,
Thanks very much for sharing your experience and benefits of essential oils, much appreciated.
Regards,
Olivia
@ Christina:
I’m glad to hear you survived getting off Lyrica. The weight gain is typical.
I found out online that many many people have had negative experiences with Lyrica, mostly due to the horrible withdrawal symptoms they experienced when going off it. Should be done under a doctor’s supervision really.
Are you injesting any oils or all just topical?
Nesa, when I had Shingles in 2015 I was put on Lyrica. When I went of it finally, the withdrawal was horrific, and since I live in Morocco I had to do it on my own without good medical advice.
I suggest that you do some research on this and talk to your doctor about slowly weaning yourself off Lyrica.
Hi David,
Thanks for sharing your experience, much appreciated.
Regards,
Olivia
My brother has an old brachial plexus nerve injury and lately he has been having a lot of nerve pain. Can you suggest an essential oil blend I can make for him to use on his arm??
Hi Patti,
You can make up Recipe 7 as per the following post:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-8-essential-oils-and-recipes-for-pain-relief/
Alternatively, if you want a ready made blend, you can order L’orpur pain relief:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-pain-lorpur/
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia,
I just found your post and when looking at the recipe for #7 as instructed above, I don’t have Helichrysum and was wondering if there was a substitute that you could recommend? I appreciate your time.
Liz
Hi Liz,
You can use wintergreen instead.
Regards,
Olivia
Question from D:
Hello Olivia,
I guess you must be flooded with messages like mine, but at this point I have no one else to turn to, and your remedies seem helpful and efficient from what I read in comments.
I’m looking to create a blend to would suit me.
I am basically suffering from neuralgia or neuropathy for the past 5 months, which the cause is still yet to be defined but I believe is post-herpetic related.
It’s also probably enhanced by the fact that I’m a very stressed and ADHD person.
I work a lot, I have a shop during the day and I’m a DJ so often out at nights and week-ends, travelling a lot also. I still try to have full nights of sleep but sometimes I really feel like I don’t recover enough from them.
I have an easily addicted temper. I used to smoke cannabis but this has just made me feel worse physically (activates the pain) and mentally (makes me paranoïd about this not fully explained condition). Although I would like to try CDB on it’s own cause I heard it can also help this nerves/adhd cases. But I’m guessing this is not your area.
I get spasmodic and periodic pains kind of all over a my body (arms, pits, upper legs), although it originates in the pubis and right lower abdomen. I can feel a tingling sensation in my hands and feet at times also.
I’m often very tired (although my vitality has been coming back slightly), I get bad headaches (but always had a condition with migraines since I’m young), I feel a bit out of breath and I have some short memory losses (memory was never a strenght of mine, but my recent condition has even weakened it even more).
I’m on various medications (opioïds, benzo) which I’m very sick of, and that just “mask” the pain rather than treating it really.
I’ve tried a few essential oils on the advice of a naturopath who I got in touch with but the only one that seemed noticeably efficient so far is MELISSA taken internally 2 drops twice a day. It really helped lower the consumptions of medications, and made the pain feel weaker and more distant. I took it for 10 days, now I’m off it for about the same amount and symptoms are coming back since then.
I’ve been studying lately the different properties of EO’s and I came up with a list of the ones I think would suit my condition and myself in general but the list is still rather too long, I have trouble narrowing it down. But still I think I wanna aim for a “big” blend. I read somewhere it has to be 3, 6 or 9. Well I would like to go for 9, and probably try inhaling rather than topical use.
Here’s the list I made, I am hoping you can help me narrow it down a little…. I need pain relief, calming mind, focus and vitality effects.
LAVENDER
ROMAN CAMOMILLA
PEPPERMINT
BERGAMOT
VETIVER
YLANG
PETITGRAIN
GRAPEFRUIT
VERBENA EXOTICA
CILANTRO
FRANKINCENSE
MAJORAM
GINGER
CEDARWOOD
BASIL
ROSEMARY
I know this is way too many, but they all sound appealing when you look at their properties…
I think I also wanna carry on taking the MELISSA orally. I hear NEROLI in same range of price is also good for this condition.
A big thanks in advance and sorry for the long post.
Olivia’s Response:
Thanks for your long email and a bit of your health history.
Here is a list of essential oils for pain relief: lavender, peppermint, marjoram, ginger, basil, rosemary, cedarwood
And the ones for calm, focus and vitality: lavender, roman chamomile, peppermint, bergamot, vetiver, ylang ylang, petitgrain, grapefruit, frankincense (basil also).
You can use the essential oils topically, in a diffuser or inhale them. If used on your skin, just make sure to dilute in a carrier oil (almond, olive, etc.) and use the correct dilution ratio.
If you need any further help, please let me know.
I suffer from occipital neuralgia. I have been on a number of medications but really nothing helps. The headaches are so bad that I just go into a depressed state of mind. I have also had RF procedures done and well nothing. No relief. I use essential oils for difussing but is there something that I can use that will relieve this suffering? There are days I can deal with it but this pain is worse then having migraines.. Please help..
Hi Cathy,
I can understand the pain you are going through. I have a few articles about headaches (migraines headaches, tension headaches, etc.)
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/category/essential-oils-for-headaches/
You can follow one of the recipes if you want to make up your own blend and if you need any help with them, let me know and I will assist. I can also come up with a recipe for neuralgia.
Alternatively, H-Headaches from AMOILS is probably the way to go in your situation. I have used it myself and it is very effective.
Just let me know.
Regards,
Olivia
My husband is having difficulty walking. Due to a herniated disc, he is experiencing sharp pains in his left leg and his left foot is numb. What oils can you suggest? Thank you, Nikki
Hi Nikki,
You can make up a massage blend as per the following: 8 drops rosemary, 12 drops peppermint, 10 drops eucalyptus, 6 drops marjoram diluted in 2 oz. carrier oil (almond, sesame, jojoba) and apply to the affected areas twice a day.
You can also try my own pain relief blend l’orpur for very prompt and effective pain relief. There is no need for any dilution and it comes with a spray head.
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-pain-lorpur/
Regards,
Olivia
Thank you so much. I truly appreciate it.
Hi Nikki,
My pleasure.
Regards,
Olivia
What can my 92 yr old Father do for therpetic nerve pain on right quadrant of head, forehead and right eye This is the results of shingles and he has been suffering for 2 years. He needs help
Hi Susy,
You can use a blend of 6 drops lavender, 4 drops each of tea tree and eucalyptus and 2 drops rosemary diluted in 30ml jojoba oil. Apply to the painful areas twice a day. He might experience a slight burning sensation, in which case you can add an extra 10ml jojoba oil to the blend to dilute even further.
Regards,
Olivia
Have you tried this yet? My husband was hit with shingles in the same area nine months ago and is desperately trying to come off of the Lyrica prescribed for the nerve pain. He is very open to trying a natural remedy if it exists as the Lyrica has so many negative side effects.
Hi Angie,
Sure, you can use essential oils for the treatment of shingles. You can refer to the article below for more information:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-essential-oils-for-shingles-and-phn-symptoms/
For maximum pain relief, you can use my own l’orpur pain relief blend (however, do not use on the face):
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-pain-lorpur/
If you need additional help, please don’t hesitate.
Regards,
Olivia
What would be good for pudendal nerve pain?
Hi Melly,
For pudendal nerve pain, you can use 4 drops each of ginger and eucalyptus and 6 drops of peppermint diluted in 30ml almond oil. Apply on the affected areas twice a day. Alternatively, you can also get my l’orpur pain relief which will definitely be effective against pudendal pain.
Regards,
Olivia
A friend of mine is suffering with phantom pain from a foot amputation. What would be the best oils for him.
Hi Barbara,
You will need an analgesic essential oils such as peppermint, rosemary or wintergreen. Use 15 drops of either oil in 1 oz. (30ml) carrier oil such as almond or castor oil.
You could also try my own pain relief blend which contains 8 pure essential / carrier oils and you can use it straight off the bottle, it also comes with a spray head.
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-pain-lorpur/
Regards,
Olivia
HI! I donated a kidney one month ago and am still having pain. The pain is under my right rib where they cut and inserted the robotic arm. The dr says that it is probably bruised because they are not gentle when doing the surgery. The pain is sharp stabbing and burning feeling and my skin in that area feels sun burn. Any suggestions for oils? The Dr was okay with me trying them if they helped!
Hi Robbin,
I appreciate your courage for donating a kidney. It is best to use essential oils for sensitive skin. Use 4 drops chamomile, 6 drops each of lavender and sage diluted in 30ml sweet almond oil. Apply twice a day to the affected areas.
Regards,
Olivia
Thanks but i made a morphine boom and it is working!
Hi Robbin,
Great, you make me smile, love the concept.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia,
My husband’s feet are numb due to chemo for Multiple Myeloma. He doesn’t need pain relief, but I am wondering if any of these oils could help restore nerve damage.
Thanks very much,
Leslie
Hi Leslie,
Sure, for nerve support, please use a blend consisting of 8 drops helichrysum, 6 drops each of peppermint and marjoram diluted in 30ml jojoba oil. Apply to the affected areas up to twice a day.
Regards,
Olivia
Dear Olivia,
I was very pleased and hopeful after I read your answers to different kind of questions related to use of essential oils in treating neuralgia pain.
I am looking to help my wife who is suffering from neuralgia chest and back pain for the last 2 months. It sucks the energy out of her and creates both of us a great deal of anxiety. The only thing that is helping her at the moment to deal with her anxiety is lorazepam. Her GP prescribed her anticonvulsant gabapentin (that she stopped taking since did not help at all, except at the beginning to knock her down and provide her with some uninterrupted sleep). She started with antidepressant drug cipralex few days ago.
MRI’s of her cervical spine (neck) and left shoulder is done since she got swelling close to the left arm pit/shoulder which is gone now, but the neuralgia pain is still with her and comes in waves.
MRI results for the cervical spine showed that she has spondylosis spaning from C4 to C7.
When it comes to MRI results for left shoulder findings are as follows: moderate AC arthrosis, mild tendinopathy supraspinatus.
When I did my research regarding AC Joint Arthropathy of the shoulder I found out that with this condition there is usually pain and swelling associated with it which was the case with my wife and more importantly how the whole her health issue progressed from there.
Since then, she has experienced 3 (three) different types of pain:
1) In her left shoulder area (which is under control now since she limited use of her left arm/shoulder and used some anti-inflamatory drugs over the counter)
2) Neuralgia pain in her chest area that manifests primarily as a burning and itching sensation. I found a cream that she applies to this area that contains capsaicine and found out that it brings her a relief (way better that gabapentin for example).
3) Similar type of pain my wife feels in her back area. But what drives her to be desperate is when her back “gets on fire” and starts emitting heat, besides burning pain.
4) Skin on her back and chest area is tender to touch and has a problem wearing clothing (i.e, puts reverse her t-shirts so the stitching does not bother her etc)
I have been reading a lot what kind of alternative treatments are there for the nerve pain.
It’s been overwhelming journey so far for both of us.
I found that B complex in a liquid form, organic first press coconut oil, homeopathy, TCM herbs and essential oils can help on the long run without side effects known to anticonvulsant and antidepressant drugs.
I am hoping to get your advice in the form of RECIPE made of essential oils (dosages for each essential oil for topical use) we would be able to use for her neuralgia pain (similar what you prescribed to JY for her chemo-induced neuropathy pain in September 2016 – 16 drops of Marjoram, 10 drops of Helichrysum, 16 drops of Wintergreen, 6 drops of Peppermint, 12 drops of Geranium, and 8 drops of Clove mixed with almond oil in 1fl oz bottle to be applied to the affected area 3x daily).
I also found very encouraging the exchange of the information between Gina and you on September 2016 where she mentioned her home made lotion that helps her and her husband, which includes Cypress essential oil.
My wife and I would be immensely grateful to you for your advice/feedback since we are both desperate to bring her relief from sleepless nights and the pain she has been going through.
We strongly believe that using the alternative way is the way to go.
For example, I applied today organic coconut oil (based on some people’s claims) to her back and she felt considerate relief from the “heat on her back” within 30 minutes.
After this experience, our hope is that once we find the recipe with essential oils for treating her condition would change our lives for better.
Thank you in advance for your time and effort to help us out.
Sincerely,
Goran & Jelena
Hi Goran & Jelena,
Thanks for your detailed description of your wife’s condition. Please bear in mind that I am not a medical doctor.
Please do a skin test patch before the use of essential oils topically or in a bath or compress.
Topical: For neuralgia pain, you can use a blend of 8 drops peppermint, 12 drops geranium, 6 drops each of helichrysum and juniperberry diluted in 60ml (2 ounces) carrier oil such as almond or jojoba. You can apply up to three times a day to the affected areas – please note that she may experience pain to begin with as the damaged nerves start to heal.
Compress: Fill a bowl with cold water (cold water will relieve the burning pain, inflammation.) Add 5 drops each of clove, clary sage and chamomile essential oil and stir in. Put a washcloth, wring, and apply to the affected areas. Repeat this 2 to 3 times whilst leaving the compress in place for around 3-5 minutes.
Bath: Mix 8 drops each of lavender, eucalyptus and rosemary essential oil in 4 tsp of coconut oil and add this to a cup of milk. Fill your bathtub with lukewarm water and add Epsom salt and the above blend. Soak in for 15 minutes.
You could also try my l’orpur blend for pain relief. Just note that on application, the affected areas will warm up as the proprietary ingredients start to react.
Any other questions, please do not hesitate.
Regards,
Olivia
HI Olivia,
Thank you very much for your prompt and detailed reply.
We want you to know that it is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Goran & Jelena
Hi Goran,
You are welcome. Hope your wife enjoys great health once again very soon.
Regards,
Olivia
Question from JS:
I was hoping you had an essential oil recipe blend to repair, restore, and alleviate nerve damage and pain from radiation treatments and surgery??? Thank you
Olivia’s Response:
Please find attached my post on nerve pain, trust that is helpful.
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/14-best-essential-oils-for-nerve-pain/
If you are after a pre-blended 100% pure essential oil blend for pain relief, I have my own l’orpur blend.
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-pain-lorpur/
If you need more info. please let me know and I will assist further.
Regards
Greetings,
I keep hearing about the healing effects of essential oils. First of all, where can I purchase them? What should I use and How should I use them for the following conditions:
* allergy/asthma cough that I get twice a year annually
* cervical radiating pain – herniated and bulging disc plus a torn rotator cuff
Hi Celestine,
You can purchase essential oils here:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oil-products/
For allergy, please refer to the post below:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-allergies/
For asthma:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-asthma/
I have quite a number of pain article on my website. Perhaps the most appropriate one in your case based on your description would be the sciatica article below:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/how-to-use-essential-oils-for-sciatica-pain/
You can read more about my own essential oil blend for pain relief here:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/essential-oils-for-pain-lorpur/
If you need additional help, do not hesitate.
Regards,
Olivia
i came to your site looking for a resource for my wife’s nerve pain. but your recipe for peppermint, marjoram & lavender in coconut oil – works wonders for my headaches. I’ve gotten them for years and this recipe is easy to put together and works very quickly. thanks for the tips.
Hi Mike,
You are welcome and thanks for sharing your experience of essential oils (and that particular recipe) against headaches.
Regards,
Olivia
My wife is dealing with a plethora of physical conditions including RA, a tear in the MCL of her right knee, and early stages of dementia. She also had been experiencing alot of pain from in her mouth which she thought was a cancer sore. She found out Friday it’s an exposed root from a tooth beside a tooth she had extracted a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately, she already had a trip planned to visit her mother so we really could not address the problem.
Can your solutions be applied orally? If so, is there anything else I need to be aware of or that could make the solution better?
Hi Rick,
Unfortunately, l’orpur is for external applications only. Whilst you need to visit your dentist asap, in the meantime, you could use clove oil antiseptic pain relief for toothache. The best way to do so is to mix 3-4 drops of clove essential oil with ½ teaspoon of olive oil; soak a cotton ball in this blend, then apply it against the exposed/sore tooth. It’s the eugenol in clove oil that provides relief as it is a natural anesthetic and will reduce inflammation in the mouth.
Regards,
Olivia
Question from JY:
Dear Olivia, I appreciated your article regarding Essential Oils for Nerve Pain. Have you had any experience or heard of anyone finding relief from chemo-induced neuropathy (feet) using essential oils? Thank you.
Olivia’s Response:
Sure, there are people who have used alternative treatment using essential oils for chemo-induced neuropathy. Essential oils are powerful enough to give you relief and allow you to rest / sleep from chemo-induced neuropathy. The best essential oils recommended for neuropathy include: peppermint, juniper, helichrysum, wintergreen, lemongrass, clove, geranium, cypress, marjoram, patchouli.
Four of the above single essential oils are contained in my own blend l’orpur, however I cannot guarantee 100% that it will be useful for this particular condition.
You could also try this recipe for neuropathy pain (make sure you use therapeutic grade essential oils): 16 drops Marjoram, 10 drops Helichrysum, 8 drops Clove, 16 drops Wintergreen, 6 drops Peppermint, 12 drops geranium. Mix the above essential oils in almond oil in 1 fl. oz. bottle and apply to the affected areas 3 times a day.
I find your info on the Helichrysum oil a bit misleading. The oil, also known as Immortelle, is used for the following:
Helichrysum: Uses – Cooling and soothing of the skin, Uplifting, De-Stressor, Nervous Exhaustion and Depression.
There is absolutely no mention of it being used for Nerve Pain or indeed Arthritis / Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Hi Pamela,
Thanks for your question. My apologies for any confusion – I have attached a quote from one of the very well-known doctors in the USA, Dr. Axe.
“Pain Reliever – Research also indicates that helichrysum oil decreases muscle pain by lowering swelling, inflammation and improving circulation. This helps support the healing of nerves, joints and muscle tissue — making it an effective natural treatment for pain-related symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia and exercise-related injuries.”
Please note that the above statement is not my own and full credit goes to Dr. Axe. I trust this clarifies the issue.
If you have any other questions, please drop me a line.
Regards,
Olivia
I have heard testimonials stating the same about Helichrysm relieving nerve pain.
Hi Susan,
Thanks for sharing.
Regards,
Olivia
I have fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome & pinched nerves in my neck, so nerve pain is something I sadly have to deal with on a daily basis. I use most of the essential oils you mentioned in a blend I came up with for my hands, but there’s 1 oil you didn’t mention that is necessary for what I make. Cypress essential oil also does wonders for neuralgia. I mix it with black pepper, clove, fir, marjoram & helisychrum in a homemade lotion and it works wonders when my hands don’t want to work. The blend also works great on my husband’s arthritis and my major neck pain (I also have compressed disks). Give it a try some time; it’s fantastic.
Hi Gina,
Thank you so much for sharing your special blend that does wonders for the pinched nerve and other conditions. I will certainly add it to my list and/or update the above article in due course.
Thanks again for taking the time to write to me.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Gina. This sounds great. I deal with a lot of nerve pain in my neck and my lower back. Would you mind sharing the ratios that you use and what you use as a carrier.
Thank you,
Jennifer
Hi Jennifer,
I have posted your comment publicly and as soon as Gina provides a response, I will be sure to post it. Take care.
Regards,
Olivia
Hi Olivia,
I recently had surgery on my shoulder following a dislocation injury. I have brachial plexus / axillary nerve damage. Really hoping I will make a full recovery in a month or two. The pins and needles, burning and throbbing in my arm/hand keeps me awake.
I made a jar with coconut oil as the carrier 20d of frankincense, 10d geranium, 10d of cypress and 3 d myrr. i`ve ordered evergreen.
Is this an ok ratio to 314 cup carrier. Plus how many times a day should I apply. Do I rub on my shoulder too when the stitches are out or just on the numb areas. Thanks for your assistance.
Hi Deborah,
For your recipe, based on the number of drops of essential oils, you should use approx 2.5 to 3 ounces of coconut oil. I am not sure about the 314 cup carrier. You can apply up to 3 times a day, twice at a minimum. I would only rub on the numb areas for now. Trust this helps.
Regards,
Olivia