The Benefits of Essential Oils for Sore Muscles
When tired and sore muscles are the result of a hard workout, it’s time to give your body some much needed attention. There is nothing better than a relaxing, soothing bath with a few drops of fragrant essential oil to relieve the aches and pains experienced after intense exercise.
A Hot Bath and Essential Oils
One of the best ways to achieve immediate relief is to fill a tub with hot water. Add 10 to 20 drops of any of the following essential oils separately, or experiment to make your own favourite combination.
- Rosemary: This piney scent has anti-inflammatory properties for those sore, swollen muscles.
- Chamomile: This is a soft, pleasing scent that creates an easy transition from a hard workout to bedtime. Tension will seemingly just float away.
- Citrus oil: Using lemon, lime or grapefruit oils will give you an energy lift.
- Lavender: A popular choice, this rich floral scent is used for anti-bacterial as well as anti-viral purposes. Many consider this popular oil particularly useful for calming nerves and muscles.
Magnesium
Adding a cup or so of Epsom salts as your bath fills can provide relief for strains, sore muscles and minor sprains. These salts, which are a magnesium sulphate, are absorbed through your skin. This helps to remove toxins, such as lactic acid, which is produced by the body during hard workouts and considered to be a main cause of sore muscles.
Massage
Once you are finished with your bath, rub those sore muscles by adding 5 drops or so of peppermint oil to 1 tablespoon of almond or olive oil. This concoction creates invigorating massage oil and will serve as a pleasant ending to a soothing and relaxing bath experience.