Sufferers of joint pain who use alternative therapies may experience some relief from symptoms such as pain, swelling and stiffness without the side effects common in pharmaceuticals. "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health" ascertains alternative therapies may include infused flower oils that may offer joint support, relief from pain and improved mobility. Your health care provider should be informed if you opt to treat joint pain with flower oils to ensure compatibility with other co-occurring health issues.
Considerations
Flower oils used to treat joint pain may contain salicylic acid, which is the naturally occurring chemical that aspirin, containing acetylsalicylic acid, was inspired by. People with aspirin sensitivity should avoid flower oils containing willow bark or spiraea according to master herbalist Rosemary Gladstar.
Joint Injury
Joint pain caused by injury may be relieved with the application of Arnica oil. Arnica is an anti-inflammatory medicinal flower that is believed to promote healing of damaged or bruised tissues. Arnica oil is available in liquid or salve form. Arnica oil is toxic and should never be taken internally or applied to broken skin. Homeopathic Arnica can be taken internally for additional healing support.
Joint Pain
Chronic joint pain caused by inflammation may be relieved by white flower oil. White Flower oil contains highly volatile essential oil that feels icy hot to the skin. The cooling heat of White Flower oil stimulates blood vessels to increase healing, loosen tight muscles and reduce inflammation. White Flower oil should never be used on mucous membranes. Hand washing may not be effective at removing all residue from White Flower oil, so use caution around eyes or other sensitive skin after application.
Frequency
Flower oils are most effective when used at least three times a day to relieve joint pain. Apply the desired amount of oil or salve to the affected area using massage to ensure absorption. As with any herbal oil, apply it to a small area of skin to test for skin sensitivity before applying to a larger area.
Misconceptions
Because allopathic doctors are not trained in herbology or alternative therapies, you may wish to consult with an alternative care provider when treating your joints with flower oils. Naturopathic physicians, certified herbalists, certified homeopaths and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners typically have extensive educations related to holistic health and may be more qualified to ascertain which flower oil or other holistic therapy is best for your condition. When using alternative therapies, it is advisable to disclose that information to your health care provider to ensure compatibility with other treatments.
References
- "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness"; Larry Trivieri Jr.; 2001
- "The Book of Herbal Wisdom: Using Plants as Medicines"; Matthew Wood; 1997
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
