Esential oils are my go-to these days, rather than reaching for a drug.  This is great information and I've parsed the article and posted parts of it here. I will post the link at the bottom so you may read the whole article if you wish. It's interesting, it just doesn't get to the meat of the article until quite a ways into it, so I've made it a bit simpler for you to find solutions!

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A Natural Solution for Pain Relief

"In a world of synthetic medicine and many artificial ways to mask pain rather than heal the body from the inside out or the outside in, many of us are looking for an alternative to the risky business of pharmaceuticals. Purely formulated, high quality, potent essential oils are that alternative. They provide documented and scientifically tested results that are similar to many over-the-counter or prescription medications and offer none of the harmful or detrimental effects on the body. Next time you are in pain and your body is aching for relief, reach for essential oils and get ready to feel the powerful healing benefits of plants. You might find that they offer the relief you need to live a fuller, more vital life that is free from tension, pressure, and, most importantly, pain."Here are some of the best essential oils for muscle and joint pain.

1. Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil is a fierce healer. It contains the active ingredient menthol, which acts as both an invigorating scent as well as an antispasmodic and mild analgesic, helping to reduce pain, pressure, and tension. It's cooling effect soothes and relieves tired and sore bodies and also has a magical way of calming the mind at the same time, relieving stress and offering a minute of peace.For best results, mix 4-6 drops oil with 1 tsp. of a neutral carrier oil, such as Jojoba or Olive oil. When fully mixed, massage into affected areas for 5-20 minutes as many times a day as you feel necessary.  

2. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender is, without question, one of the most well-known and widely recognized essential oils for pain relief. Due to its mildly but active sedative compounds, it has been used and trusted for centuries for pain and pressure relief, which makes it a perfect essence to be made into an essential oil.It also contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties when used topically, which is perfect for a tired and overworked, strained body Unlike other essential oils, lavender essential oil is gentle enough to be used on it own and does not need to be mixed with a carrier oil for dilution. You can massage it directly into the skin without worry of irritation. If you are on the go and need some relief, simply rub a few drops into your palms and cup them around your nose, breathing deeply and slowly. It's quick and easy, and is analgesic properties which are all so beneficial to each and every one of us. When using in the bath, drop 10-15 drops of the oil into warm, steaming water. Get in and relax, feeling the pain and pressure subside. If using it for massage, mix 2-4 drops of the oil with a neutral carrier oil such as Jojoba or Olive oil. Spend 5-20 minutes massaging affected area(s). Between the aroma and its healing properties, your body will benefit greatly.It's important to note that juniper essential oil, in its distilled nature, is very strong and should not be used on its own. It also should not be used by pregnant women or children 3 years of age or younger.

3. Juniper Essential OilJuniper essential oil has been used for centuries as a detoxifying agent, a stress reducer, an antioxidant, and a pain and inflammation reliever. It has powerful anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, and even analgesic properties which are all so beneficial to each and every one of us. When using in the bath, drop 10-15 drops of the oil into warm, steaming water. Get in and relax, feeling the pain and pressure subside. If using it for massage, mix 2-4 drops of the oil with a neutral carrier oil such as Jojoba or Olive oil. Spend 5-20 minutes massaging affected area(s). Between the aroma and its healing properties, your body will benefit greatly.It's important to note that juniper essential oil, in its distilled nature, is very strong and should not be used on its own. It also should not be used by pregnant women or children 3 years of age or younger. 4. Turmeric Essential Oil 
Turmeric has been used for more than four thousand years in India and surrounding countries as a spice, a dying agent, and a holistic healer. Turmeric is one of the most heavily used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine because it helps to support and realign imbalances in the body. Taken from the root of the turmeric plant, turmeric essential oil boasts strong anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. It is also known to have properties that help the body relax and heal. Many of these properties block harmful enzymes that could otherwise affect the muscular and skeletal system in a negative way, making turmeric a go-to for those who suffer from joint and muscle pain, as well as arthritis and other painful conditions. For a soothing and healing massage, mix 4-6 drops of the oil with a carrier oil like Moringa, Coconut, or Jojoba. Massage for 5-20 minutes. Enjoy the deep and penetrating feeling as the oil works its magic. We recommend 1-2 massages with turmeric essential oil per day for best results.

4. Turmeric OilTurmeric has been used for more than four thousand years in India and surrounding countries as a spice, a dying agent, and a holistic healer. Turmeric is one of the most heavily used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine because it helps to support and realign imbalances in the body. Taken from the root of the turmeric plant, turmeric essential oil boasts strong anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. It is also known to have properties that help the body relax and heal. Many of these properties block harmful enzymes that could otherwise affect the muscular and skeletal system in a negative way, making turmeric a go-to for those who suffer from joint and muscle pain, as well as arthritis and other painful conditions. For a soothing and healing massage, mix 4-6 drops of the oil with a carrier oil like Moringa, Coconut, or Jojoba. Massage for 5-20 minutes. Enjoy the deep and penetrating feeling as the oil works its magic. We recommend 1-2 massages with turmeric essential oil per day for best results. 
5. Rosemary Essential Oil
With its mildly evergreen, somewhat earthy aroma and it high levels of naturally produced oil in its leaves and on its stalk, Rosemary is one of nature's miracle plants. It is extremely high in antioxidants and is rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. One antioxidant in particular, carnosol, well-known to focus in on inflammation, making rosemary oil one of the best choices for pain relief. If using as a massage oil, mix 4-6 drops of oil with your favorite neutral carrier oil. Massage for 5-20 minutes. Rosemary essential oil is also wonderful mixed with peppermint oil. For a soothing and invigorating experience, combine the following;

• 3-6 drops rosemary oil
• 2-4 drops of peppermint oil
• 1 teaspoon coconut or olive oil

With regular use, this easy-to-make combination can be extremely beneficial to overall pain relief and relaxation. 

6. Clove Essential Oil
Clove is one of nature's strongest forms of pain relief. It has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial/anti-microbial agent.Clove essential oil is known to have warming effects on the body, making it particularly adept at revitalizing and reinvigorating tired and aching muscles, as well as soothing them and allowing them to loosen up, reducing tension and pressure. In addition to these wonderful properties, clove essential oil a mild anti-neuralgic which means it numbs the surface of the skin temporarily when applied topically. This offers much needed relief to those suffering from pain. Those who suffer from tooth pain can place a few drops of the oil on a cotton ball or swab and wipe the affected area for a few seconds. The oil will numb the area, thus temporarily relieving the pain.It is important to mention that clove oil is extremely strong and should be tested before use to be sure you are a compatible fit. Pregnant and nursing women should not use this oil, nor should children 3 years of age or younger.Due to its strength, clove essential oil must be diluted when used due to its high levels of eugenol so that it doesn't burn the skin. Use your favorite carrier oil such as Jojoba, Olive, Coconut, or Moringa. Mix 2-4 drops of clove oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. Massage into affected area(s) for 5-20 minutes and be ready for a stimulating and invigorating experience. Acute and chronic pain sufferers, rejoice!

7. Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme essential oil is here to save the day. Thyme oil has been used for years for muscle pains, inflammation, and soreness. it contains a compound called carvacrol which is proven to reduce the activity of COX-2, an enzyme linked with inflammation, in the body. Thyme oil offers high levels of analgesic and antispasmodic properties, all which work together to reduce and sometimes alleviate pain. For a soothing massage, combine 2-4 drops of oil with 1 teaspoon of your favorite carrier oil. Massage the affected area(s) for 5-20 minutes, breathing deeply and relaxing into the touch. You will feel an immediate release of tension and a reduction of pain. Thyme essential oil is also wonderful when use in the bath. Mix 10-15 drops of the oil into warm bathwater and get ready to let it all disappear. 

8. Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense has been used for centuries in many holistic and Ayurvedic practices. Native to India, the Boswellia serrata tree offers leaves, roots, and stalks that all contain very therapeutic properties. Frankincense is a well-known anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, analgesic, anti-bacterial, and anti-spasmodic properties, all which make it one of nature's most understated heroes.Overall, frankincense essential oil is one of the most versatile and gentle essential oils on the market today. Although usually recognized for its refreshing and very pleasing aroma, this essential oil is gaining recognition as being a very formidable pain reliever. Although gentle, frankincense essential oil should still be diluted by a carrier oil when applying topically. Mix 2-4 drops of oil with 1 teaspoon of your favorite neutral carrier oil, such as Jojoba or Olive, or even Tamanu. Frankincense oil is phenomenal in the bath. The aroma alone will send you off to a land of peace and tranquility and your pain will slowly melt away. Mix 10-15 drops of oil into a warm, steamy bath just before you are ready. Then, simply slip in and allow this healing plant to work its magic. 

A Simple and Invigorating DIY Muscle Rub in Six Easy Steps

If you want to experience deep muscle relaxation and a soothing feeling like you haven't felt in a long time in those tired, achy muscles and joints, here is a do-it-yourself rub that you can make in no time. Use it after a long day at work. Rub it on after a workout or any extended period of physical activity. Whenever your body hurts, this is a go-to remedy that works like a charm. You'll need these ingredients to create your masterpiece;

• a glass container, such as a small mason jar
• small round metal tins with lids
• 1/4 cup shea butter or beeswax, grated or chopped 
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, unrefined
• 4-6 drops turmeric essential oil
• 1-2 drops ginger essential oil
• 12-15 drops peppermint essential oil
• 12-15 drops rosemary essential oil

Now simply follow these steps to achieve DIY muscle rub success and satisfaction;
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Warm about 2 inches of water in a saucepan or small pot on low to medium heat

Combine all shea butter or beeswax and coconut oil in the glass container. Place in the warm water and allow all to melt

Remove from sauce pan and turn off heat, allowing the mixture to cool just a bit

Add essential oils and stir well to combine all ingredients

Transfer into round tins

Allow to cool completely

This muscle rub will store for 3-6 months if kept out of direct sunlight and away from extreme heat.** Also just FYI, I never mix these with "oily" bases like coconut, they are just too messy that way and it gets all over everything.  I buy and use an organic based lotion that soaks right into my skin and that seems to work much better than the oils, IMO.  But you can do it however you wish, just make sure you're using all organic products.


Follow this link if you'd like to read the entire article:  https://upnature.com/blogs/news/essential-oil-for-joint-pain-and-muscle-spasms