DIY Arthritis Ointment for Joint Pain

Arthritis is a joint disease that causes swelling and pain in and around the joints. It’s usually classified as either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that a whopping 52.5 million adults in the U.S. alone suffer from arthritis.

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Essential oils have so many uses, including for serious health problems. This DIY arthritis ointment uses the three powerful essentials oils — frankincense, ginger and myrrh — alongside the solid carrier oil, coconut oil.

Fractionated coconut oil can work best because it blends most easily and remains liquid regardless of the temperature. You can also use unrefined coconut oil, which does feature more benefits but mixes less easily. Jojoba is another workable carrier oil.

It’s believed that frankincense oil transmits messages to the limbic system of the brain, which is known to influence the nervous system. It can inhibit the production of key inflammatory molecules associated with conditions like arthritis, asthma, painful bowel disorders like IBS and many more conditions.

Ginger essential oil is also made up of about 90 percent sesquiterpenes, which are defensive agents that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger oil appears to be effective when taken by patients with pain associated with inflammation. A study found that when patients with osteoarthritis of the knee took a ginger extract twice daily, they experienced less pain and needed fewer pain-killing medications than those who received placebo.

Lastly, myrrh essential oil also contains sesquiterpenes as well as another primary active compounds called terpenoids, both of which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Mix all four ingredients into a bowl until well blended. Place this DIY arthritis ointment into a dark (to preserve the essential oils) glass jar with a lid for continued use.

Simply massage the ointment in the areas where you feel pain. Use twice daily. You can also take it to your masseuse and ask him or her to use it while performing a mild massage.

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