Essential Oils and Chiropractic

Essential Oils Take Spinal Adjustments to a New Level

There are many benefits we receive from chiropractic care. While many people make frequent visits to their chiropractor various ailments, many don’t realize the advantages of combining the care with the use of essential oils.

What Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils aren’t actually what we typically think of as oil. Instead, they are highly concentrated, perfumed substances that are extracted from flowers, plants, grasses, herbs, trees, and shrubs. They come in a variety of colors and consistencies.

While these oils will not solve the underlying problem (that’s what the adjustment is for), they can promote healing and ease discomfort and anxiety that come with back and joint pain. One way they can do so is with their anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, and calming properties.

For example, lavender, marjoram, and chamomile are proven to be a highly effective aid in easing inflammation. Other essential oils, such as thyme and eucalyptus, are useful for muscle cramping and pain.

Studies have found that those who use essential oils, along with getting regular adjustments from a chiropractor experienced less overall pain compared to the control group.

How Can Essential Oils Be Used to Enhance the Chiropractic Experience?

Many chiropractors choose to diffuse oils in their offices to create a stress-free environment. When we breathe in these aromas, signals are sent to our brain that helps our bodies to relax. This is especially important when we are in pain, and our muscles are tight. It will be easier for the chiropractor to adjust our spine if our minds and muscles are at ease.

Some chiropractors will use the oils during the adjustment. For example, they might apply an oil such as frankincense or peppermint to ease pain and tension around the spine before the adjustment.

At home, you can continue to apply a few drops to the affected areas to reduced inflammation and tension after an adjustment.

Overall, essential oils will increase circulation and reduce anxiety when it comes to joint and muscle pain. Using such oils by applying them topically or diffusing them into the air will promote healing and ease pain after an adjustment.

Some oils will require using a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation. Others are not suitable for children or pregnant women. However, your doctor and chiropractor can suggest which oils will be safe and beneficial to you.