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How to Use Eucalyptus Oil to Treat Back Pain

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Eucalyptus oil has long been considered a potent natural remedy for treating back pain. Eucalyptus oil works naturally to increase blood flow, which in turns brings more oxygen to the brain to enhance healing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Find a reliable source for eucalyptus oil, such as a health-food store that has a wide selection of herbs and herbal remedies.

  2. Step 2

    Mix the eucalyptus oil with jojoba oil, since the eucalyptus oil can evaporate too quickly on its own. You should be able to find jojoba oil from the same health-food store. Mix 20 drops of eucalyptus oil for every cup of jojoba oil.

  3. Step 3

    Pour the mixture into a small spray bottle. Use a bottle that is airtight to prevent the eucalyptus oil from evaporating. It may also be a good idea to find a bottle that can keep out light, since this can also affect the potency of the oils.

  4. Step 4

    Shake the eucalyptus oil before you use it to treat your back pain. The jojoba and the eucalyptus oils will separate quickly, so shake the spray bottle frequently.

  5. Step 5

    Massage the oil into your back until is completely absorbed. You will probably need to use an assistant to apply the oil mixture to those hard-to-reach areas.

  6. Step 6

    Prepare yourself for some pain and discomfort once your skin has absorbed the oil, especially the first time you use the mixture. Your skin may be hot to the touch and itchy, which is a result of the eucalyptus oil's anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a cold washcloth to the area if the heat becomes too intense.

  7. Step 7

    Wait for your skin to cool, and then see whether the pain in your back has been reduced. In most cases, you should feel a difference immediately.

  8. Step 8

    Repeat eucalyptus oil application twice a day for the first few weeks, and then reduce this treatment to once a day for the following 2 weeks.

Tips & Warnings
  • Eucalyptus may also be effective in treating arthritis or fibromyalgia, since it is a natural anti-inflammatory. Some herbal experts say that eucalyptus oil also may be effective for the treatment of headaches and colds. For such uses, apply it topically on the temples or under the nose.
  • Notify your doctor immediately if your back pain does not diminish, as the continued discomfort may indicate a serious medical condition.
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