10 Best Essential Oils for Broken Bones (Heal Faster)
I imagine you’re here because you’re in pain, perhaps from a broken bone, or from a bone fracture one of your loved ones got, and you’re looking for natural ways to heal it.
I’ve been there too, and I know how frustrating it can be when the healing process seems slow and the pain persists. Fortunately essential oils – which have been used for centuries for bone fractures – can speed up the healing process, according to scientific data.
This article is a result of extensive research and it lists the 10 best essential oils for broken bones that could potentially help with your situation. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how these oils work, and how to use them effectively.
Best Essential Oils for Broken Bones
Essential oils may offer supportive benefits for bone healing and pain relief. Their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help improve circulation and assist the healing process.
☝️IMPORTANT
It’s important to understand that if you break your leg or arm or anything you MUST go to a doctor to put your fractured bone into a “scaffolding”. Now there are scaffoldings that are open (not gypsum) where you can easily apply the following essential oils.
A bone to heal itself MUST stay still (that’s why doctors stabilize the broken bone). Applying these essential oils to your fractured bone will speed up the bones natural healing procedure).
1. Cypress Essential Oil
Cypress oil can improve circulation, crucial for delivering nutrients to heal broken bones. Its use is supported by studies highlighting its circulation-promoting properties.
Cypress oil is a type of essential oil that is derived from the cypress tree, scientifically known as Cupressus sempervirens. It is commonly used in aromatherapy and has been found to have various health benefits.
One of the benefits of cypress oil is its ability to improve circulation in the body. By saying “circulation” I mean to the movement of blood through the blood vessels, delivering oxygen and nutrients to different parts of the body. Good circulation is crucial for overall health and healing processes.
When a bone is broken, it requires a sufficient supply of nutrients to heal properly. This is where the improved circulation provided by cypress oil becomes important. By enhancing blood flow, cypress oil helps in delivering the necessary nutrients to the site of the broken bone, aiding in the healing process.
2. Fir Needle Essential Oil
Fir needle oil is a type of essential oil that is derived from the needles of fir trees. It has many therapeutic properties including its ability to reduce pain and inflammation.
Pain and inflammation is something we experience when we break a bone.
When a person breaks a bone, there is often swelling and discomfort in the affected area. Fir needle oil contains compounds that have been found to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in the oil interact with certain receptors in the body, such as the opioid receptors, to produce analgesic effects. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of fir needle oil may be attributed to its ability to inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules and enzymes.
3. Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum is a plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as the everlasting or immortelle plant.
It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits.
When a bone is broken, the body initiates a complex process of healing. This process involves inflammation, formation of new bone tissue, and remodeling of the bone.
The anti-inflammatory effects of helichrysum can help to reduce excessive inflammation at the site of the fracture, which may promote faster and more efficient healing of the broken bone.
4. Grape Seed Essential Oil
Grape seed oil is a type of oil that is extracted from the seeds of grapes.
When it comes to broken bones, grape seed oil has been suggested as a potential treatment or aid in the healing process.
The healing of broken bones involves a complex process called bone remodeling, which includes the formation of new bone tissue and the removal of old or damaged bone tissue.
Grape seed oil contains various compounds that have been found to have potential benefits for bone health. These include antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and certain types of fatty acids.
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but excessive or prolonged inflammation can delay the healing of broken bones. The anti-inflammatory properties of grape seed oil may help reduce inflammation and promote the healing process.
Certain types of fatty acids found in grape seed oil, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, have been shown to have positive effects on bone health. These fatty acids may help improve bone density and strength, which can aid in the healing of broken bones.
5. Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang ylang oil is an essential oil derived from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, which is native to certain parts of Asia. It is known for its sweet, floral fragrance and is commonly used in aromatherapy and skincare products.
In a 2019 study scientists made a strong, flexible material using polyurethane, ylang ylang oil, and zinc nitrate for bone healing.
They used a method called electrospinning, which is like using a machine to make really tiny fibers from the polyurethane, ylang ylang, and zinc nitrate. When they looked at these tiny fibers under a super strong microscope, they saw that adding ylang ylang and zinc nitrate made the fibers even smaller.
Among other checks, they checked if the scaffold helps bones to become strong and hard again. The scaffold with ylang ylang and zinc nitrate helped more calcium to stick to it, and that’s something bones need to become strong.
This might suggest that ylang essential oil might help bone fracture to remineralize (and heal) faster.
6. Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary Essential Oil is known for its various health benefits, including its potential role in bone healing. Here’s how it may help:
- Improved bone mass: Rosemary essential oil is renowned for its stimulating properties, which have been associated with improved bone mass and increased bone density in rats.
- Supports Calcium Metabolism: The same study showed that rosemary essential oil helped to increase calcium metabolism in bones, improving bone density. Calcium is an essential structural component of the skeleton, which makes it vital for both health and bone healing. [1]
7. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is notable for its pain-relieving properties and also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, making it pertinent for healing support.
8. Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense oil is traditionally used for pain relief and inflammation, and studies suggest its effectiveness in the context of joint and bone health.
9. Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil has been studied for its antimicrobial properties, which can be crucial in preventing infections that might complicate the healing of bone fractures.
10. Wintergreen Essential Oil
Wintergreen oil contains methyl salicylate, similar to aspirin, and is noted for its pain-relieving effects which can be useful during the recovery from broken bones.
Other Essential Oils Good for Bones
These essential oils can improve bone health, aid in mineral balance, support bone density, and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are factors that contribute to conditions like osteoporosis.
St. John’s Wort Essential Oil
St. John’s Wort Essential Oil is acknowledged for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for alleviating tissue damage associated with broken bones. This oil may help in reducing the discomfort that results from fractures and bone injuries.
Cinnamon Essential Oil
Cinnamon Essential Oil is rich in antioxidants. These can protect bones from oxidative stress, potentially slowing down processes that lead to bone density loss.
Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme Essential Oil contains compounds that may help in preserving bone health by combating inflammation. This is useful in managing pain and promoting recovery following a fracture.
White Poplar Essential Oil
White Poplar Essential Oil may support the body’s calcium retention, a critical factor in maintaining strong and healthy bones. It has been used traditionally to soothe the pain from bone-related injuries.
Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger Essential Oil is well-regarded for its strong anti-inflammatory effects. This oil can help in reducing swelling and pain, benefiting those recovering from bone damage.
Notopterygium Root Essential Oil
Notopterygium Root Essential Oil has been used in traditional medicine to relieve joint and bone pain. It may contribute to the reduction of inflammation in the affected area, fostering better conditions for bone healing.
How to Use These Essential Oils for Bone Fractures
When dealing with bone fractures, adding essential oils to your regular fracture care can support healing. Essential oils may aid in improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and providing pain relief.
- Dilution:
- Mix essential oils with a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil) to avoid skin irritation. The typical dilution is 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
- Application:
- Gently massage the diluted essential oil blend onto the affected area. Lavender and helichrysum are often considered for their potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Topical Compress:
- Soak a clean cloth in warm water mixed with a few drops of essential oil. Apply the compress to the fractured area, allowing the warmth and essential oil vapors to soothe the discomfort.
Safety Considerations When Using Essential Oils
When using essential oils for aiding the healing process of broken bones, it’s important to consider safety to prevent complications. Essential oils should not replace medical treatment but may complement it under professional guidance.
- Dilution: Always dilute essential oils before applying to the skin. Concentrated oils can cause irritation or burns. A common dilution ratio is 1-2% essential oil in a carrier oil.
- Patch Test: Conduct a patch test to check for allergic reactions. Apply a diluted drop on a small skin area and wait for 24 hours.
- Quality: Use pure, high-quality oils without synthetic additives, which can cause adverse reactions.
- Children and Pregnant Women: Certain oils should be avoided by pregnant women, children, and breastfeeding mothers as they may act differently on their bodies.
| Essential Oil | Safety Precautions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arnica | Topical use only on unbroken skin; internal use may be toxic. | Use caution and avoid ingestion. |
| Lavender, Helichrysum | Generally safe but use in diluted form. | Dilute properly before applying to the skin. |
| Myrrh, Frankincense | Avoid use during pregnancy. | Pregnant individuals should refrain from using these oils. |
| Tea Tree Oil, Rosemary, Clary Sage | Do not ingest; can cause serious side effects if swallowed. | Ingestion should be avoided; use topically or aromatically. |
| Peppermint | Not recommended for infants; may lead to breathing problems. | Exercise caution when using around infants. |
| Eucalyptus | Keep away from children; toxic when ingested. | Avoid ingestion and ensure it is out of reach of children. |
| Ginger, Turmeric, Boswellia | High doses may interfere with blood clotting; use cautiously if on anticoagulant medications. | Consult with a healthcare professional if on anticoagulants. |
| Comfrey | Contains compounds that can cause liver damage if used improperly. | Use with caution and follow recommended guidelines. |
| Calendula, St. John’s Wort, Yarrow | Avoid sun exposure on treated areas; these oils can increase photosensitivity. | Sun protection is advised when using these oils on the skin. |
Bottom Line
So there you have – 10 essential oils for broken bones as well as 7 more that are believed that help as well.
What was your experience with essential oils and broken bones? Have you used any yourself? Let us know in the comments section below.
In the meantime, feel free to explore more related articles on bone health and essential oils.
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