Thursday, October 2, 2014

Delayed- Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and Essential Oils



It was thought among experts that DOMS was caused by the lactic acid, the by-product of anaerobic metabolism (glycosis). However, it is now believed that the free radicals hydroperoxides, ammonia, and hydroxyl radicals cause hydroxyproline damage. Hydroxyproline can be found in the connective tissue.  It is a constituent of the collagen.

Any movement that is new can cause tearing and swelling that leads to soreness  However, it is mostly the eccentric muscle contractions that lead to DOMS. Eccentric muscle contractions are movements that cause the muscles to forcefully contract while it lengthens. Going down the stairs, lowering weights, running downhill, and the downward movements of squats and push ups.

Stretching, hydration, pre-workout warm up, and massage are some things that may reduce DOMS. 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 should also be consumed. 

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

Here are some blends to try 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 may be useful are nutmeg, black pepper, basil, spruce, Roman Chamomile, peppermint. 

Important
This information is for educational purposes only, and is not meant to diagnose or prescribe.  If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from a medical condition, consult with your health care practitioner prior to using essential oils. Be careful when using essential oils with hormonal activity and don’t hesitate to contact a professional. Make sure that you look over the safefy information before you start using essential oils.


Before you leave:



I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
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:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 
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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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