20 Essential Oils for Immediate Back Spasm Relief!

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Back spasms can interrupt daily life, causing significant discomfort. Essential oils have become a sought-after remedy for their natural and effective relief. In this post, we’ll explore 20 essential oils, focusing on their specific benefits and practical applications.

Essential oils, like lavender and peppermint, are known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Lavender promotes relaxation and reduces inflammation, while peppermint provides a cooling, pain-easing effect.

We’ll highlight products and brands, including doTERRA’s Deep Blue blend, known for immediate relief, and Young Living’s PanAway, praised for both pain relief and healing properties. These products stand out for their quality and effectiveness.

It’s essential to consider the quality and cost when choosing essential oils. Opting for organic, additive-free options is advisable. While some products can be expensive, a variety of choices caters to different budgets.

We aim to provide detailed information on each oil, focusing on their benefits and practical use, to help you make informed decisions based on your needs and budget. Explore the world of essential oils with us, discovering targeted relief and comfort from back spasms.

What are back spasms? What are the symptoms?

Back spasms are an involuntary contraction or tensing of the muscles in the lower back. The condition ranges from infrequent spasms with mild discomfort to chronic spasms with severe pain and mobility issues. They can also be related to more serious medical conditions such as arthritis, a ruptured disc, or a trapped nerve.

Independent research suggests more people in the UK are experiencing some form of back pain each week than they were five years ago. Back spasms are amongst the most common complaint. One of the main reasons that back spasms are on the rise is inactivity and bad posture. They are often brought on by long days at the office sat at our desks. But at the other end of the scale, a desire to be fit, active, and healthy can also lead to back spasms if we overdo it.

Many people with mild or infrequent back spasms choose to ease their pain and tackle some of the causes with essential oils. Those with more chronic symptoms often use essential oils to complement their formal medical treatment—or if they find prescription pain killers, such as opiate-derivatives, are not for them.

Essential oils are a popular and effective way to treat back spasms. They contain a combination of analgesics (painkillers or pain relievers to you and me) and anti-inflammatory components, and muscle (and mind) relaxants. They can also encourage improve blood flow in the lower back so they could get you moving freely again.

How to Use Essential Oils for back spasms

There are many different ways to use essential oils. In case you’re not familiar with them all, these are the most common:

Skin massage. You MUST combine your essential oil with a carrier oil if you buy it in its pure form.
Pre-mixed or in a DIY roll-on applicator

Inhaled using a diffuser
Added to your bath or shower
On a warm or cold compress

In a homemade or shop-bought muscle rub.

Most people start by massaging the oil into the lower back or adding a few drops into their baths. As you get more experienced, you can select the most appropriate, enjoyable, and effective way for you.

Birch Essential oil

20 Essential Oils For Back Spasms Reviewed

Now, onto the oils themselves. We’ve taken a look at 20 of the most effective oils to help you get started. We’ve also offered some pointers on how to use them. The application advice is intended as guidance only—always read manufacturer instructions before first use:

Birch Essential oil

Birch essential oil has a long history of helping sore and tired muscles because of its painkilling and anti-inflammatory properties. The bark from which birch oil is made contains salicylic acid, which has many similarities to aspirin.

Properties

Analgesic: Birch essential oil contains salicylic acid and methyl salicylate, known for their pain-relieving effects, making it effective for back spasms.

Anti-Inflammatory: Salicylic acid in birch oil reduces muscle inflammation, decreases pain, increases mobility, and helps prevent future spasms.
Muscle Relaxant: Birch oil eases muscle tension and reduces the frequency of spasms, aiding in immediate comfort and healing.

Application

Pain Relief: Apply birch oil topically for immediate relief from back spasms, thanks to its quick-acting salicylic acid and methyl salicylate content.

Reducing Inflammation: Birch oil is beneficial for back spasms with inflammation, restoring muscle function and movement while aiding in healing.

Muscle Relaxation: Topical application or aromatherapy with birch oil relaxes muscles and reduces spasms.

Data

Anecdotal evidence supports the benefits of birch oil for back spasms, attributed to its salicylic acid and methyl salicylate content, aligning with conventional muscle pain treatments.

Cayenne Pepper Essential Oil

Cayenne Pepper is a relatively new essential oil. The active ingredient, capsaicin, blocks pain signals to the brain and can increase circulation to the affected area. Users note it provides a mild, comforting and warming sensation.

Properties:

1. Pain Relief:

Capsaicin in Cayenne Pepper Essential Oil provides pain relief by depleting Substance P, reducing pain signals to the brain.

2. Anti-Inflammatory:

The oil reduces inflammation, alleviating pain and discomfort from back spasms.

3. Increased Circulation:

It promotes blood circulation to the back muscles, aiding healing and recovery.

How It Helps Back Spasms:

Capsaicin blocks pain signals for immediate relief. The oil’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce muscle swelling and inflammation. Increased blood flow aids muscle healing, preventing recurrent spasms.

Usage Recommendation:

Dilute Cayenne Pepper Essential Oil with a carrier oil for topical application to avoid skin irritation.

Application Steps:

Mix: Combine the oil with a carrier oil, adjusting the ratio for skin sensitivity.
Test: Apply a small amount to ensure no adverse reaction.
Apply: Massage into the affected back area.

Rest: Let the oil absorb.
Repeat: Apply 2-3 times daily until relief is achieved.

Consult a healthcare professional before use to ensure safety and compatibility with your health condition and medications.

Chamomile Essential Oil for back spasm

Chamomile is one of the most ancient essential oils. It combats pain and inflammation by calming the nervous system. Its relaxing, sedative qualities also help to soothe muscle tension and reduce spasms—settling your body and your mind.

Anti-Inflammatory:

Chamomile oil contains chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol, compounds known to reduce inflammation. It helps soothe inflamed muscles and tissues, alleviating back spasm pain.

Analgesic Effects:

This oil has analgesic properties due to the presence of flavonoids and terpenoids, reducing pain intensity and duration in back spasm sufferers.

Muscle Relaxant:

Chamomile oil eases muscle tension and stiffness, improving mobility and flexibility for those with back spasms.

Usage:

Dilution:
- Mix 5-10 drops of chamomile oil with 30 ml of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba.

Application:
- Massage the diluted oil onto the affected area 2-3 times daily.
Precautions:
- Conduct a patch test to avoid allergic reactions. Consult a professional if pregnant, nursing, or having health conditions.

Using chamomile oil responsibly can provide relief from back spasms due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and muscle relaxant properties.

Clary Sage Essential Oil

Clary Sage essential oil has been used in medicine since Greek and Roman times to treat inflammations and muscle spasms. It contains compounds called terpenes that soothe nerves and offer a mild sedative relief.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Clary Sage Essential Oil contains linalyl acetate and linalool, compounds effective in reducing inflammation. This reduction alleviates pain associated with back spasms.

Muscle Relaxant

Clary Sage contains terpenes that ease muscle tension and reduce the frequency of spasms.

Pain Relief

This oil is a natural analgesic, blocking pain signals and providing comfort from back spasms.

Stress Reduction

Clary Sage reduces stress and anxiety, indirectly alleviating back spasms.

Usage

Topical Application

Dilute Clary Sage Essential Oil with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut or jojoba oil) using 5 drops of essential oil per 10ml of carrier oil. Massage the mixture into the affected area 2-3 times a day.

Inhalation

Use a diffuser to inhale the aroma of Clary Sage for stress reduction and relaxation.

Cloves Essential Oil

Cloves are one of the strongest natural pain relievers. On application as an essential oil to the skin, it creates a warming feeling that relaxes muscles and reduces tension. It also contains mild anti-neuralgic components that temporarily block nerve signals and numb the skin.

Cloves Essential Oil for Back Spasms

1. Analgesic Properties:

Cloves Essential Oil contains eugenol, effective in reducing pain when applied topically, making it a suitable option for back spasms relief.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

The oil’s eugenol also reduces inflammation, alleviating swelling and redness associated with back spasms.

3. Muscle Relaxant:

The warming effect of Cloves Essential Oil relaxes tense muscles and provides relief from spasms and stiffness.

4. Increased Blood Circulation:

Applying this oil enhances blood circulation to the affected area, promoting muscle healing and recovery.

Usage:

Topical Application

Dilution: Mix 5 drops of Cloves Essential Oil with 10ml of a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil before applying to avoid skin irritation.

Application: Massage the diluted oil into the affected area 2-3 times daily for pain relief and muscle relaxation.
Patch Test: Ensure no allergic reaction by conducting a patch test.

Warm Compress

Preparation: Add a few drops of diluted oil to a warm, damp cloth.

Application: Apply the cloth to the affected area for 15-20 minutes for pain relief.

Avoid using undiluted Cloves Essential Oil on the skin. Consult a healthcare professional if pregnant or have underlying health conditions.

Copaiba Essential Oil

Copaiba essential oil has been used in healing and well-being therapies that can be traced back to 16th century Brazil. It has a similar smell to black pepper. Copaiba essential oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties and also contains compounds that can block pain receptors.

Copaiba Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties:

1. Anti-Inflammatory: Copaiba essential oil contains beta-caryophyllene, reducing inflammation and pain in muscles affected by back spasms.

2. Pain Relief: The oil’s active compounds alleviate pain, offering immediate relief and comfort when applied to affected areas.

3. Muscle Relaxation: Copaiba essential oil helps reduce muscle tension and contractions associated with back spasms.

Relevant Data:

Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology and the European Journal of Pain supports Copaiba oil’s effectiveness in managing pain and inflammation due to its beta-caryophyllene content.

Usage Recommendation:

Topical Application

Mix Copaiba essential oil with a carrier oil.

Massage into the affected area 2-3 times daily or as needed.

Ensure a patch test to avoid allergic reactions and seek professional advice if pregnant, nursing, or having health conditions.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus is one of the best-known essential oils for treating muscle aches and pains. It has a significant body of medical research supporting its anti-inflammatory, pain-killing properties. Eucalyptus expands blood vessels to help circulation, which brings pain relief to muscle and joint aches. This in turn helps lower body temperature—creating a soothing, calming effect.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties

1. Anti-Inflammatory:

Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol, proven to reduce inflammation, as evidenced by a study in the “American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.”

2. Analgesic Effects:

This oil relieves pain associated with back spasms due to its cooling effect on sore muscles.

3. Muscle Relaxant:

It soothes the nervous system, reduces muscle tension, and alleviates discomfort in individuals with back spasms.

4. Improved Blood Circulation:

Eucalyptus oil stimulates blood circulation, promoting faster recovery by ensuring muscles receive adequate oxygen and nutrients.

Usage

Topical Application

Dilution: Mix 5 drops of eucalyptus oil per ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba to avoid skin irritation.
Massage: Apply the mixture to the affected area for relief.

Warm Compress: Enhance the oil’s effects with a warm compress post-massage.

Inhalation

Use a diffuser to spread the oil’s aroma for additional relaxation and pain relief.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil is harvested from the Boswellia tree. It is regarded as one of the best natural treatments for back spasms. Contemporary research suggests it can even help regenerate damaged tissue. Frankincense has a very pleasant, relaxing aroma that said to calm the mind as well as the body.

Frankincense Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties

1. Anti-Inflammatory: Frankincense essential oil contains boswellic acids that reduce inflammation, alleviating back spasm pain and discomfort.

2. Pain Relief: This oil acts as an analgesic, inhibiting inflammatory molecules associated with back pain and spasms.

3. Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Frankincense aids in muscle relaxation and stress reduction, mitigating muscle tightness and spasms.

Relevant Data

A study in the European Journal of Medical Research highlighted the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of boswellic acids in frankincense, underscoring its effectiveness in managing musculoskeletal pain and inflammation.

Usage

Topical Application

Dilution: Mix 5 drops of frankincense oil with an ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba to avoid irritation.

Application: Massage the diluted oil into the affected area 2-3 times daily.
Frequency: Applying before bedtime aids in overnight healing.

Inhalation

Use a diffuser or inhale directly from the bottle for relaxation and stress relief.

Ensure a patch test to avoid allergic reactions and seek professional advice if pregnant, nursing, or having health conditions.

Ginger Essential Oil

Ginger essential oil can reduce the involuntary muscle contractions that cause back spasms. It is also able to block pain sensors and reduce inflammation.

Ginger Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Ginger essential oil contains zingibain, known for its anti-inflammatory effects. It reduces inflammation associated with back spasms, alleviating pain and promoting recovery.

Analgesic Effects

This oil serves as a natural pain reliever, offering an alternative to pharmaceutical options for those with back spasms.

Muscle Relaxant

It eases involuntary muscle contractions associated with spasms, aiding in muscle relaxation and improved mobility.

Enhanced Blood Circulation

The oil’s warming effect improves blood circulation, ensuring efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to affected muscles, accelerating healing and pain relief.

Usage

Dilution

Mix 5 drops of ginger essential oil with 1 ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil.

Application

Massage the diluted oil onto the affected area 2-3 times daily.

Heat Therapy (optional)

Apply a warm compress after the massage to amplify the oil’s effects and promote blood circulation.

Helichrysum Essential Oil

Helichrysum’s flowers and leaves have been used for centuries in essential oils across Italy, Spain and Portugal. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. Helichrysum is also believed to reduce tension in the mind and body.

Helichrysum Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Anti-Inflammatory

Helichrysum Essential Oil contains arzanol, known for reducing inflammation, which can alleviate back spasms and improve motion.

Analgesic Effects

The oil’s analgesic properties help mitigate pain from muscle tension and spasms, offering a natural alternative to pain relievers.

Muscle Relaxant

Helichrysum aids in easing muscle tension, providing relief from spasms and preventing their recurrence.

Enhanced Circulation

The oil promotes better blood circulation, ensuring efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles and aiding toxin removal, which helps alleviate pain.

Usage

Topical Application

Dilution: Mix 5 drops of Helichrysum oil with an ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba.
Application: Massage the mixture into the affected area 2-3 times a day for relief and relaxation.

Compress

Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress with a few drops of the diluted oil for 15-20 minutes for relief.

Cold Compress: In cases of acute pain, a cold compress with the oil can reduce inflammation and soothe the area.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil helps alleviate the symptoms of back spasms with its calming, soothing and cooling properties. It has strong anti-inflammatory components and offers mild sedative effects. So, if your back spasms have been disrupting your sleep or making you anxious, it should get you back on course for a good night’s sleep too.

Lavender Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Anti-Inflammatory

Lavender oil contains linalool and linalyl acetate, compounds known to reduce inflammation. This reduction in inflammation helps alleviate pain caused by back spasms.

Analgesic Effects

A study in “Pain Research and Treatment” highlighted lavender oil’s pain-relieving properties. It offers an alternative to pharmaceutical painkillers for those experiencing back spasm pain.

Muscle Relaxant

Lavender oil aids in muscle relaxation, reducing stiffness and increasing flexibility, providing relief and preventing future spasms.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction

A study in the “Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand” showed that inhaling lavender oil reduces anxiety levels, leading to muscle relaxation and spasm relief.

Usage

Topical Application

Mix lavender oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the affected area, massaging gently for pain and inflammation relief.

Inhalation

Inhale the aroma from a diffuser with a few drops of lavender oil to reduce anxiety and relax muscles.

Bath Soak

Add lavender oil to a warm bath and soak for relief from muscle tension and pain.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil reduces physical and mental anxiety, tension and stress. If your back spasms have been brought on by a long and stressful day of meetings at work. This could be the oil for you.

Lemongrass Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties

Anti-inflammatory: Lemongrass oil contains citral and geranial, reducing inflammation and pain associated with back spasms.
Analgesic: It offers pain relief by interacting with pain receptors, easing the discomfort of back spasms.

Muscle Relaxant: The oil eases muscle tension and stiffness, reducing the frequency of spasms and improving mobility.
Stress Reduction: Lemongrass oil helps reduce stress, indirectly aiding in the management of pain caused by back spasms.

Relevant Data

A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted the anti-inflammatory effect of myrcene in lemongrass oil, essential for managing back spasm inflammation.

Usage

Topical Application: Mix lemongrass oil with a carrier oil, apply to the affected area, and massage for pain and inflammation relief.
Aromatherapy: Inhale its aroma via a diffuser to reduce stress, indirectly easing back spasms.
Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress with diluted lemongrass oil to the affected area for immediate pain relief.

Marjoram Essential Oil

Marjoram is related to Oregano and has a similar smell. As an essential oil, it’s been used in medicines since ancient Egyptian times. It’s particularly good for dealing with back spasms brought on from overextended muscles.

Marjoram essential oil will also help recharge your nervous system. It has proven pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties and can also help improve sleep quality. This makes Marjoram an excellent post-sports recovery option.

Marjoram Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties

Anti-inflammatory: Marjoram Essential Oil contains terpinen-4-ol, reducing inflammation and pain from back spasms.

Analgesic: Compounds like linalool and sabinene in the oil provide pain relief and muscle relaxation.
Muscle Relaxant: Marjoram oil eases muscle tension and improves blood circulation, aiding in healing.
Nervous System Support: It calms nerves and reduces nerve pain, decreasing the severity of spasms.

How It Helps:

Pain Relief:
Alleviates pain from back spasms.
Muscle Relaxation:
Eases muscle tension and prevents spasms.
Inflammation Reduction:
Reduces swelling and pain.
Nervous System Support:
Manages nerve pain associated with spasms.

Usage

Dilution
Mix 5 drops of Marjoram oil with 1 ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil.

Application
Massage the diluted oil onto the affected area 2-3 times daily.

Patch Test
Conduct a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.

Using Marjoram Essential Oil can provide relief from back spasms, promoting healing and comfort. Follow these guidelines for effective results.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint is one of the best all-round essential oils. The menthol component in the oil has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the skin it has a cooling, refreshing and calming feel that is perfect for treating back spasms. Peppermint is also known to boost energy levels and improve blood flow so this could be the perfect post-workout oil to aid lower back recovery and recharge you for your next gym session.

Peppermint Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties

1. Anti-inflammatory:

Peppermint oil, containing menthol, reduces muscle inflammation and swelling, offering relief from back spasm pain.

2. Analgesic Effects:

This oil relieves pain and promotes muscle relaxation, reducing spasm frequency and severity.

3. Muscle Relaxant:

Peppermint oil aids in relaxing muscle contractions and provides immediate relief from back spasms.

4. Improved Blood Circulation:

It enhances blood circulation, ensuring efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to affected muscles for faster recovery.

Application

1. Dilution:

Mix 5 drops of peppermint oil with 1 ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba to avoid skin irritation.

2. Application:

Massage the diluted oil gently onto the affected area.

3. Frequency:

Apply 2-3 times daily or before bedtime to alleviate spasms.

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds including carnosol. This means it can soothe and care for over-taxed muscles, blood vessels, and joints. Rosemary also contains pain-relieving compounds and has the ability to halt involuntary back muscle spasms.

Rosemary Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Anti-inflammatory

Rosemary essential oil contains carnosol and camphor, compounds effective in reducing inflammation. This reduction alleviates pain caused by back spasms.

Pain Relief

The oil’s analgesic properties provide comfort and immediate relief from pain by blocking pain signals to the brain.

Muscle Relaxation

Rosemary oil eases muscle tension and reduces the frequency and intensity of spasms, enhancing mobility.

Improved Blood Circulation

Enhanced blood circulation from using the oil ensures efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, accelerating healing.

Usage

Topical Application

Dilution: Mix 5 drops of rosemary oil with 1 ounce of carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.
Application: Massage the oil into the affected area 2-3 times daily for optimal absorption and effectiveness.

Inhalation

Use a diffuser or inhale directly from the bottle to complement the effects of topical application.

Thyme Essential Oil

Thyme essential oil is packed with compounds that stop involuntary muscle spasms and help with pain management. Some people believe it can also help in the process of the skin and cell regeneration, but more research is needed in this area.

Thyme Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties:

1. Anti-inflammatory:

Thyme essential oil contains carvacrol, effective in reducing inflammation. This reduction in inflammation alleviates back spasm severity and promotes healing.

2. Analgesic:

Carvacrol and thymol in thyme oil contribute to its pain-relieving effects, aiding those with back spasms.

3. Muscle Relaxant:

Thyme oil helps reduce involuntary muscle contractions, providing relief and aiding recovery.

4. Circulatory Stimulant:

The oil stimulates circulation, promoting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to affected muscles and aiding the removal of toxins, alleviating pain.

Usage:

Topical Application:

Thyme essential oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before topical application to the affected area to avoid skin irritation.

Steps:

Dilution: Mix thyme essential oil with a carrier oil.
Application: Massage the diluted oil into the affected back area gently.
Frequency: Apply as needed to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Always conduct a patch test to ensure no allergic reaction occurs and consult with a professional before use.

Vetiver Essential Oil

Vetiver essential oil has a long tradition of use in Indian medicine for the treatment of back spasms, rheumatism, arthritis. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce swelling in joints, muscles and tendons. Vetiver has an earthy, woody smell—a little like uncut grass.

Vetiver Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties:

1. Anti-Inflammatory: Vetiver essential oil reduces inflammation, alleviating pain from back spasms and promoting muscle recovery.

2. Muscle Relaxant: Vetiver oil eases muscle tension and reduces spasms by calming the nervous system.

3. Pain Relief: This oil offers immediate relief by interrupting pain signals to the brain.

4. Circulatory Benefits: Vetiver oil improves blood flow to affected muscles, promoting healing and reducing spasms.

Application:

1. Topical Application: Mix vetiver oil with a carrier oil, apply to the affected area, and massage gently for relief.

2. Warm Compress: Add vetiver oil to warm water, soak a cloth, and place it on the affected area to ease tension and pain.

3. Bath Soak: Add vetiver oil to a warm bath for relief and relaxation from back spasms.

Wintergreen Essential Oil

Wintergreen essential oil comes from a North American evergreen shrub and is often used in Native American medicine. It contains compounds that are very similar to aspirin, which can help reduce swelling and pain. Wintergreen is also rich in methyl salicylate, which is added to over-the-counter muscle rubs and sports balms. It has a clean, fresh minty scent and may also have relaxing, mood-lifting properties.

Wintergreen Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties:

Anti-Inflammatory:
Wintergreen essential oil contains methyl salicylate, effective in reducing inflammation and swelling, aiding those with back spasms.
Analgesic:
Methyl salicylate also acts as a pain reliever. Applied topically, it numbs pain receptors, providing relief from back spasm pain.
Muscle Relaxant:
The oil penetrates muscle tissues, promoting relaxation and easing muscle tightness associated with back spasms.

Application:

Wintergreen essential oil addresses inflammation, pain, and muscle tension but should be used with caution due to its potency.

Recommended Usage:

Topical Application:
- Dilution: Mix 5 drops of wintergreen oil with an ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba to avoid skin irritation.
- Massage: Apply the mixture to the affected area to alleviate pain and inflammation and relax muscles.
Compress:
- Add a few drops of the diluted oil to a compress for additional relief.
Precautions:
- Avoid ingesting wintergreen oil or applying it to sensitive skin areas. Conduct a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.

Yarrow Essential Oil

Yarrow essential oil is very good for circulation, so it’s a good one to consider if your back spasms occur as a result of rheumatism or arthritis. It can help relax contractions that lead to back spasms. Yarrow is also reported to reduce stress and anxiety, rejuvenate skin and offer a natural cure for insomnia.

Yarrow Essential Oil for Back Spasms

Properties:

Anti-Inflammatory:
Yarrow essential oil contains chamazulene and alpha-pinene, reducing inflammation and alleviating back spasm severity.
Analgesic Effects: With sesquiterpene lactones, the oil provides pain relief from back spasms.
Muscle Relaxant: Esters in yarrow essential oil ease muscle tension and reduce spasms.
Circulatory Stimulant: The oil improves blood flow to affected areas, aiding faster muscle recovery.

Application and Usage:

Dilution: Mix 5 drops of yarrow essential oil with 1 ounce of a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil.
Massage: Apply the diluted oil to the affected area to ease muscle tension.
Warm Compress: A warm compress post-massage aids in oil absorption and provides comfort.
Frequency: Use 2-3 times daily for optimal results.

Safety and Precautions

So, now you know all about the oils and you’re ready to get started… But before you do, here’s some advice to help you get the best from your treatment. It will also help keep you and those around you safe before, during and after use:

Always dilute essential oils before you put them on your skin. This will reduce your risk of irritation and other side effects.
You may recognise some of the essential oils we’ve talked about here as culinary ingredients. Please note that you cannot interchange essential oils and shop-bought cooking items. They are very different in form and composition. Unless specifically recommended and advised, you should never ingest essential oils.
Always try new oils on a small patch of skin before your first application. This will alert you to any potential allergic reactions.
If you’re using a diffuser, think about who else will be close by. Give particular thought to children, pets, or anyone in your household with a chronic condition or known allergies. If in doubt, check with a vet or doctor.
Don’t use essential oils if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keep all essential oils out of reach of children and pets.
You should see a doctor or healthcare professional if your back spasms persist.

Conclusion

As we hope to have shown, there are a wide variety of different essential oils on the market, so there is bound to be one out there to suit you—but if we had to narrow it to just five of our favourites, we would suggest looking at:

Cayenne Pepper: Treats back spasms by warming muscles and tissue.
Eucalyptus: Offers pain relief by delivering a cool, refreshing sensation.
Clove: Temporarily numbs pain and reduces tension.
Lavender: An excellent all-rounder.
Marjoram: One to consider if your back spasms have been brought on by sports or exercise.

As well as treating the actual back spasms, essential oils may provide relief from the anxiety or depression that is often linked to ongoing pain and discomfort. They could also offer a natural way to get a good night’s sleep if back spasms have been keeping you awake.

With all this in mind, it’s definitely worth considering one or more essential oils as a treatment option for back spasms—whether as part of a post-exercise recovery regime, a way to improve circulation after sitting down all day, or for support with longer-term pain management.