Certain oils do more than smell good—they work wonders on sore muscles, inflammation, and circulation. Peppermint, eucalyptus, ginger, and lavender can penetrate deep, easing tension and boosting recovery with every application.
Science backs it: according to a study in PubMed, massaging muscles with these oils can rival over-the-counter pain relief for strains, spasms, and aches.
With the right oils, you can create a powerhouse muscle rub that targets tension and pain. Ready to make your own? Here’s what you need to know to craft a soothing, all-natural blend.
Choosing the Best Essential Oils for Your Muscle Rub
With so many amazing essential oils out there, how do you know which ones to choose for your homemade muscle rub? Here are some of the top essential oils that are renowned for their powerful muscle-soothing abilities:
- Peppermint: cooling, refreshing, analgesic
- Wintergreen: pain-relieving, anti-spasmodic
- Eucalyptus: anti-inflammatory, energizing
- Rosemary: stimulating, anti-spasmodic
- Ginger: warming, increases circulation
- German Chamomile: relaxing, anti-inflammatory
- Juniper Berry: detoxifying, tension-relieving
- Lavender: calming, balancing, pain-relieving
Each of these oils has its own unique therapeutic benefits. For example, peppermint oil creates a cooling, tingling sensation that overrides pain signals, while ginger root oil generates a warming effect that soothes stiffness and boosts blood flow.
Combining several complementary oils allows you to craft a well-rounded muscle rub.
A Word of Caution
It’s important to note that a few essential oils, like cinnamon, clove and oregano, should be avoided or used very sparingly as they can be quite irritating to the skin.
Always make sure to use high-quality, 100% pure essential oils from a trusted supplier for maximum safety and effectiveness.
Supplies & Ingredients for Your Homemade Muscle Rub
Ready to whip up your own essential oil infused muscle magic? Here’s what you’ll need to make about 8 ounces of homemade muscle rub:
- 1/2 cup organic coconut oil or shea butter (or a mix of both)
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles
- 2 tablespoons jojoba, almond or olive oil
- 15-20 drops each of 3-5 of the essential oils above
- Double boiler setup (glass bowl over a saucepan works well)
- Glass jars or metal tins for storage
- Printable label template if desired
The coconut oil and shea butter serve as a soothing, moisturizing base while the beeswax helps the rub set up to a firmer texture. Jojoba and almond are fantastic carrier oils that dilute the essential oils and allow them to absorb into the skin.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Muscle Rub
Making your muscle rub is easy and fun! Just follow these simple steps:
- Set up a double boiler by placing a heat-safe glass bowl over a saucepan filled with a few inches of water. Melt 1/2 cup of coconut oil/shea butter and 2 tablespoons of beeswax pastilles in the bowl, stirring until fully liquefied.
- Remove bowl from heat and let cool for 2-3 minutes before stirring in 2 tablespoons of jojoba or almond oil.
- Add 15-20 drops each of your chosen essential oils and mix thoroughly to combine. Feel free to adjust the amount of oils to your scent preferences.
- Carefully pour the mixture into clean glass jars or tins. Allow to solidify at room temperature for at least 2 hours or speed things up by popping in the fridge.
- Add a cute label to your jars if giving as gifts. You did it – your homemade muscle rub is ready to use!
How to Apply Your Muscle Rub for Best Results
Now that you’ve got your dreamy muscle rub, here’s how to get the most out of it:
- Scoop out a small amount with your fingertips and apply a thin layer over any achy, sore muscles.
- Use gentle circular motions to massage the balm into your skin, moving towards your heart to promote circulation.
- Start with a small test patch to make sure your skin doesn’t react negatively to the oils.
- Reapply the muscle rub every few hours as needed for consistent pain relief and relaxation.
- Store your muscle rub in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and heat, which can degrade the oils. Your DIY balm should last up to a year with proper storage.
Variations, Tips & Precautions
Want to customize your muscle rub even further? Here are some easy variations and tips:
- Substitute the beeswax with candelilla wax or soy wax for a fully vegan muscle rub
- Add a teaspoon of menthol crystals or cayenne for extra heating/cooling sensations
- Include a few drops of vitamin E oil or rosehip seed oil for additional skin-nourishing benefits
- Always avoid applying essential oils near your eyes, nose or other sensitive areas
- Make sure to thoroughly wash your hands after massaging in the muscle rub
- Properly diluted essential oil blends are generally safe for children over two but check with your doctor if you’re pregnant or have any medical concerns before using
The Natural Solution for Everyday Aches & Pains
Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or just looking for natural relief from everyday aches and pains, this homemade muscle rub with essential oils is a total game-changer.
So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch of this marvelous muscle magic and get ready to say goodbye to sore, tired muscles and hello to feeling relaxed and pain-free!
Source:
1. PubMed Central
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.