Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Essential Oils & Pain - Delayed- Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)




 I have had great success using essential oils when I've been sore from working out. My post Is Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Your Excuse to Skip the Next Workout?  will explain more about this condition. 
According to experts, it is wise to add antioxidants before and after training to minimize or reduce occurrence of DOMS. Remember, higher intensity training increases the risk of DOMS. Some antioxidants to consider are Pantothenic Acid, niacin, vitamin C & E, beta-carotene, COQ10, n-acetyl cysteine, zinc, selenium, grape seed extract and L-Glutathione. Rehydration drinks with electrolytes, carbohydrates and ascorbates may also be consumed.

Essential oils have a high antioxidant value in addition to the other healing properties.

Here are some of my favorite blends I use for  over exercised muscles.
Hot Bath
Marjoram 3 drops
Lemon 2 drops
Follow with the massage oil below


Massage Oil for Over-Exercised Muscles
Eucalyptus 5 drops
Peppermint 5 drops
Ginger 5 drops
Dilute in 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.

More Blends:
Sore Muscle Blend
Juniper 8 drops
Wintergreen or Birch 10 drops
Lemon 8 drops
Rosemary cineol 4 drops
Lavender 8 drops

Sore Muscle Blend No.2
Cypress 9 drops
Rosemary cineol 4 drops
Lavender 8 drops
Elemi 2 drops
Valerian 2 drops

Other essential oils that I found are useful for us are nutmeg, black pepper, basil, spruce, Roman Chamomile, and  peppermint.



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Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 
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