Can Neuropathic Pain Be Soothed With Essential Oils?

In recent years, various treatments for neuropathic pain have been studied. In this article, we will discuss whether neuropathic pain can be soothed with essential oils.

As reported in the Journal of the Spanish Pain Association (Revista de la Sociedad Española del Dolor), the management of neuropathic pain is cumbersome  and usually requires both drug and non-drug treatment.

Neuropathic pain is pain resulting from nerve damage. It is estimated to affect 7-10% of the population, mainly older people. It is particularly common in patients with chronic postoperative pain, postherpetic neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy.

Neuropathic pain has also been linked to other chronic diseases. However, its most common form is diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which affects up to half of diabetics. In addition to pain, patients usually experience tingling, swelling, and numbness.

Can neuropathic pain be soothed with essential oils? According to some studies, such natural treatment can help relieve pain. However, there is little research evidence on this, so they should be used with caution.

Keep reading to find out what effect essential oils have on neuropathic pain.

Essential oils for relieving neuropathic pain

As mentioned at the outset, the  treatment of neuropathic pain is complex and requires professional intervention. While essential oils, for example, can provide relief, they are not a substitute for the treatment provided by a doctor. If you decide to use them, remember the advice we give in this article.

St. John’s wort essential oil

St. John’s wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) is often used in natural medicine to improve mood in anxiety and depression. However, one single case study left open the possibility that it would also be effective as adjunctive therapy for neuropathic pain.

According to a study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine , a patient suffering from trigeminal neuralgia – a type of facial nerve pain – found relief from the ailment when using a homeopathic remedy for St. John’s wort. From this, the researchers concluded that extracts of this plant would be a promising treatment option for such pain. However, there is insufficient research evidence to confirm this.

Holy basil essential oil

Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is a fragrant herb with the scientific name Ocimum Sanctum . According to the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine , its healing properties include antimicrobial, anti-diarrheal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It also has  potential analgesic and immunomodulatory effects.

In a study published in 2015, the essential oils of this plant appeared to be effective in sciatic nerve tree mice, which is why it is believed to be effective in neuropathic pain as well. However, there is a lack of evidence for this and studies are still needed to confirm these effects in humans.

Chamomile essential oil

Chamomile essential oil contains a substance called borneol. According to a study in the European Journal of Pharmacology , this compound  may help reduce pain and inflammation caused by neuropathy. In this study, borneol reduced pain sensitivity in rats with neuropathic pain.

However, the effects of this essential oil on humans have not yet been confirmed. Nevertheless, such an oil is safe to use and is praised in popular literature for its calming effects.

Ginger essential oil

There is little evidence of the neuropathic analgesic effect of ginger essential oil. However, studies of this natural product have found analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. This is because of the compound it contains called zingibain, which has been shown to be useful against inflammatory problems.

How can these essential oils be used to soothe neuropathic pain?

First of all, it should be remembered that  these oils should only be used as an adjunct to traditional treatment. Because there is not enough evidence for their effectiveness, they may not work in all cases. They can be used in aromatherapy or topically.

Start by putting the oil in a diffuser or pouring it into hot water to breathe steam. If you want to use it topically, mix the essential oil with a base oil, such as olive, almond or coconut oil. About five drops per spoon should suffice.

What to remember

These essential oils can be purchased at health food or cosmetics stores. Buy essential oils only from well-known and respected brands. Read product labels and instructions.

Pure essential oils are quite concentrated and can be toxic. For this reason,  they should not be swallowed and should always be used in small amounts. The essential oil applied to the skin should be mixed with another oil. If you notice any adverse reactions, wash off the oil with plenty of water and stop using it.