Essential Oils for Achilles Tendonitis

Are you looking for relief from Achilles tendonitis? Then you have come to the right place. This article explores the world of essential oils and their potential benefits in treating Achilles tendonitis. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone who suffers from this common injury, knowing the best essential oils for Achilles tendonitis can be a valuable addition to your recovery toolbox.

Achilles tendonitis is caused by damage to the Achilles tendons, which connect the calf muscle to the back of the heel. This injury usually results from overuse, especially in people who run or engage in activities that place repetitive stress on the Achilles tendons. Irregular duration or intensity of running often contributes to this condition.

To shed light on the subject, we refer to a study by BioMed Research International, which distinguishes between two forms of Achilles tendinitis: insertional tendinitis and non-insertional tendinitis. In addition, the study shows that the condition is more common in men than women and that older people are more often affected than younger people.

Now let’s look at the symptoms and signs that can help you know if you’re dealing with Achilles tendonitis.

Please note that the rest of the article will be dedicated to researching the symptoms, causes and essential oils that can help effectively treat Achilles tendonitis.

How would you know you have Achilles tendonitis?

Tendonitis Symptoms and Signs

In the early stages, Achilles tendinitis begins with mild pain above the heel or on the back of the leg. The pain may come from an intense run, stair climbing or sprinting. Unfortunately, most sufferers assume the pain is normal muscle fatigue until it is too late. If the pain persists, you should see a doctor or use the creams we prescribe. These symptoms and signs also occur with other forms of tendonitis.

The good news is that there are natural treatments.

Natural Treatment of Tendonitis

Tendons, like any other human tissue, can repair and eventually heal. The whole healing process takes more than six weeks. A conducive environment is suitable for these numerous biological processes during the healing period. These processes include cells forming a tissue which matures until it becomes a fibrous tendon enough to withstand the strain.

The common natural treatment is rest, as it reduces further damage. Another natural remedy is ice. It reduces further swelling and pain. Other physical techniques, such as elevation and compression, promote a speedy recovery.

Common Causes of Tendonitis

Any activity that excessively strains the Achilles’ tendons causes tendonitis. Since the Achilles tendons support walking, jumping, running, and standing on toes, an excess of these activities can lead to injury of the ligaments.

Helpful Supplements of Tendonitis

You can use different essential oils to suppress the pain and speed up the healing process. Let us look at our top pick essential oils for tendonitis on the shelves.

1.    Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil is famous for its numerous benefits. Its relaxant properties make it one of the best treatment supplements for tendonitis. According to research, Lavender oil also has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling in the infected area.

The oil is applied directly onto the affected area or steamed through aromatherapy. It reduces the pain in your heels enabling you to continue your day smoothly.

2.    Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense is an aromatic resin derived from the Boswellia tree. [2]. It has analgesic as well as anti-inflammatory properties. [1][3][5][6][7]. Frankincense essential oil is believed to be soothing and may help reduce inflammation.

3.    Eucalyptus Essential Oil

As the name suggests, eucalyptus oil is a product of the eucalyptus tree leaves. [7]. This oil is a superb skin smoother and mould remover. It also treats respiratory maladies using its antioxidants. Some research indicates that eucalyptus leaf extract may help improve dry skin [1]. Eucalyptus oil has a long history of use for respiratory conditions, such as coughs and colds. It contains compounds like eucalyptol (1,8-cineole), which may temporarily relieve respiratory symptoms and may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to note that eucalyptus oil should be used cautiously and under guidance, as direct inhalation or ingestion of the oil can be harmful or toxic. However, some studies have indicated eucalyptus oil’s potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that may contribute to its therapeutic use in respiratory conditions.

These properties make eucalyptus oil one of the best treatment oils for tendonitis. A regular topical application reduces pain and swelling.

4.    Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

Invented during the great Roman civilization, Roman Chamomile has withstood the test of time as a reputable essential oil. The research published in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine indicates that Roman Chamomile, like Lavender, has antidepressant effects. It reduces anxiety, pain, and insomnia.

Its anti-inflammatory effects make it an excellent remedy for tendonitis swellings and pain. Roman Chamomile also treats other skin infections such as ulcers, gouts, bruises, and burns.

5.    Helichrysum Essential Oil

Like other herbal essential oils, helichrysum is a product of the distillation of helichrysum flowers. According to research, helichrysum essential oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, it eliminates bacterial and fungal presence in the body.

The anti-inflammatory components make it suitable for tendonitis treatment. It reduces redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area.

6.    Marjoram Essential Oils

Marjoram oil is excellent for extra sore tendonitis. [6]. It has unique soothing effects and anti-inflammatory properties. Marjoram essential oil is known for its potential soothing effects. It has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may temporarily relieve muscle aches and pains. It is generally recommended to dilute essential oils, including marjoram essential oil, before applying them to the skin. Direct application of undiluted essential oil may cause skin irritation or sensitization.Apply the essential oil to the affected area directly. Besides treating tendonitis, Marjoram also treats any other muscle aches.

7.    Clary Sage Essential oil

Unlike other essential oils, clary sage has antidepressant effects, improves digestion and relieves stress. These components make it one of the most outstanding essential oils.

Clary sage oil is an extract from the leaves, barks, seeds or flowers of the clary sage plant. It should be applied through inhalation due to its high absorbance rate.

8.    Lemongrass Essential oil

Lemongrass has anti-inflammatory properties. It heals sore muscles and torn tissue. It is mainly used to treat arthritis and tendonitis. You can massage the oil onto the affected part of the heel or mix it into your bathwater.

How to use essential oils for tendonitis

Using your essential oils appropriately helps you make the most out of each drop.  Let’s have a look at the main ways of using essential oils.

1.    Aromatic

Aromatherapy is the best way to use your essential oils. Human olfactory cells found inside the nose are responsible for the sense of smell. When you inhale the oil, the olfactory cells in your nose cavity absorb the content and transfer the necessary signals to the brain. The hippocampus part of the brain, which is responsible for emotion perception, sends an appropriate message to the body hence an appropriate emotional response.

The olfactory cells are highly vascularized; therefore, the oil gets absorbed into the blood system instantly.

Most aromatherapists prefer using diffusers to dispense the oil vapour into the room.

2.    Topical Application

Topical application is the purest form of applying essential oils. Topical application is the most advisable for tendonitis because it is on the feet. It can be in creams containing essential oil ingredients or in your bathwater.

The skin instantly absorbs the essential oils due to its high molecular structure. The body cells metabolize the components of the essential oil in the blood.

This method is suitable for oils which are irritant to the nostrils and non-edible.

3.    Ingestion

Although ingesting essential oils can be hard on the liver and the general body system, it is still an effective way of using them. For this reason, it is prudent to be very selective. Only soft essential oils are advisable for ingestion.

Conclusion

Essential oils are crucial to the healing process of your Achilles tendonitis. Choose one of our top products. We have selected the best products based on reviews from previous consumers.

In conclusion, essential oils can be valuable to your recovery toolbox when treating Achilles tendonitis. They offer natural and soothing remedies for pain, inflammation, and swelling associated with this common injury. Lavender, frankincense, eucalyptus, Roman chamomile, helichrysum, marjoram, clary sage, and lemongrass are some of the top essential oils that can be used to alleviate the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis. Each oil has unique properties that contribute to pain relief and healing. It’s important to use essential oils appropriately, whether through aromatherapy, topical application, or ingestion and to follow safety guidelines to ensure their effective and safe use. Incorporating these essential oils into your treatment regimen can support the healing process and relieve Achilles tendonitis.

Remember, while essential oils can offer natural remedies, it’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. They can provide personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific needs.