Natural Support for Pain
- Laura Van Horn
- May 7
- 9 min read
Addressing Pain with Herbs, Essential Oils & Carrier Oils

Pain is part of life, but that does not mean we must suffer without support. Whether it’s a sore neck after a long day in front of the computer, achy joints from arthritis, or nerve pain that flares without warning, there are natural ways to ease discomfort.
I often get asked what herbs or oils are good for pain, and the honest answer is: it depends. Different types of pain need different approaches. A tension headache isn’t the same as arthritis in the knees, gout in the foot, or pulled muscles in the back. The good news is that with the right herbal allies, essential oils, and nourishing carriers, you can put together targeted blends that meet your body where it hurts.
Let’s walk through the common types of pain and explore simple, effective ways to work with them, naturally and safely. I have listed a few herbs and oils that are helpful for each type of pain, but these are by no means exhaustive lists, just a starting point.
Understanding Pain
Pain can be categorized as acute (short-term, often from injury) or chronic (persistent, often from inflammation or nerve damage). It can be sharp, dull, tight, tingling, or throbbing—sometimes all at once. Pain might come from inflammation (swollen joints), muscle tension (tight shoulders), or nerve irritation (burning or zapping sensations). Understanding the root cause helps you choose remedies that provide real support.
Here are six common pain types addressed below:

Headaches & Tension
Headaches can arise from a variety of causes—stress, dehydration, hormonal shifts, muscular tension, or sinus congestion. While conventional pain relievers may offer temporary relief, many people turn to natural options for long-term support that aligns with the body’s rhythms.
Herbs
White willow bark (Salix alba): Natural source of salicin, supporting inflammation relief; avoid if allergic to aspirin
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Linalool relaxes the nervous system and eases tension
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Rosmarinic acid enhances circulation, helpful for tension or sinus headaches
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium): Contains parthenolide, which may reduce migraine frequency and tension by calming inflammation
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Rich in apigenin, it promotes relaxation to ease stress-related headaches
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata): Calms nervous tension, ideal for headaches tied to anxiety or overwork
Essential Oils
Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Menthol provides a cooling sensation, relieving tension and migraine pain
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Linalool and linalyl acetate soothe stress and promote calm, easing tension headaches
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Camphor and 1,8-cineole boost circulation, relieving tension and improving focus
Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Contains eugenol, which supports muscle relaxation and reduces head tension
Carrier Oils
Apricot kernel oil: Gentle, light, ideal for temples and forehead
Jojoba oil: Lightweight and non-greasy, mimics skin’s natural oils for smooth application

Muscle Aches & Soreness
Muscle soreness can occur after physical activity or due to poor posture. Thankfully, several natural remedies can help ease the discomfort of achy, tight, or stiff muscles.
Herbs
Hops (Humulus lupulus): Humulone and lupulone relax muscles and calm tension, ideal for stress-related soreness
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Potassium and anti-inflammatory compounds support muscle recovery by reducing inflammation
Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Sesquiterpenes and flavonoids reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing, great for strained muscles
Arnica (Arnica montana): Topical use reduces bruising and muscle soreness by improving circulation
Cayenne (Capsicum annuum): Capsaicin blocks pain signals and warms muscles, boosting blood flow
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale): Allantoin soothes tissue, ideal for topical muscle relief (avoid open wounds)
Essential Oils
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii): Boswellic acids support inflammation relief, reducing muscle soreness and stiffness
Copaiba (Copaifera officinalis): Beta-caryophyllene mimics cannabinoids, calming muscle discomfort, and promoting relaxation
Marjoram (Origanum majorana): Linalool and terpinen-4-ol relax tight muscles and ease spasms
Black pepper (Piper nigrum): Piperine warms and stimulates circulation, relieving soreness
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus): 1,8-cineole cools and supports inflammation relief for overworked muscles
Carrier Oils
Grapeseed oil: Lightweight, anti-inflammatory, perfect for inflamed or oily skin
Castor oil: Ricinoleic acid penetrates deeply, supporting inflammation relief and muscle relaxation

Joint Pain & Arthritis
Tension often builds up in response to stress and can lead to both physical and emotional discomfort. Arthritis can involve stiffness, swelling, and pain in joints, worsened by cold or movement. Properly addressing this tension can restore balance and promote well-being.
Herbs
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): Thymol supports inflammation relief and muscle relaxation, easing arthritic joint pain
Nettle (Urtica dioica): Anti-inflammatory compounds and minerals reduce swelling and support joint health
Pine resin (Pinus spp.): Terpenes like pinene provide warming, anti-inflammatory effects, soothing stiff joints topically
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Curcumin reduces inflammation, easing arthritic swelling and pain
Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Gingerols warm joints and support inflammation relief, improving mobility
White willow bark (Salix alba): Salicin supports pain relief, but avoid if allergic to aspirin
Essential Oils
Juniper berry (Juniperus communis): Terpinen-4-ol supports detoxification and inflammation relief, easing joint pain
Lemon (Citrus limon): Limonene promotes circulation and reduces inflammation, refreshing stiff joints
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha): Sesquiterpenes support inflammation relief and tissue repair, ideal for chronic joint pain
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii): Boswellic acids support inflammation relief, soothing joint stiffness
Copaiba (Copaifera officinalis): Beta-caryophyllene mimics cannabinoids, calming joint discomfort
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Camphor and 1,8-cineole boost circulation, easing joint pain
Carrier Oils
Kombo butter: Deeply anti-inflammatory, penetrates well for inflamed joints
Coconut oil: Nourishing and supportive of inflammation relief, with a smooth texture

Nerve Pain
Tingling, burning, shooting pain—often chronic and difficult to treat.
Herbs
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): Eugenol and adaptogenic compounds calm nerve irritation and stress-related pain
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): Rosmarinic acid soothes nerve tension, easing tingling or burning sensations
Linden (Tilia spp.): Flavonoids and volatile oils relax the nervous system, reducing stress-induced nerve discomfort
St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum): Hypericin and hyperforin soothe nerve irritation when used topically
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): Flavonoids calm overactive nerves, reducing tingling sensations
California poppy (Eschscholzia californica): Alkaloids provide mild analgesic support for nerve discomfort
Essential Oils
Black pepper (Piper nigrum): Piperine warms and stimulates circulation, reducing nerve pain and stiffness
Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata): Linalool and benzyl acetate promote relaxation, calming nerve-related tension
Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum): Neryl acetate supports nerve regeneration and reduces pain
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Linalool calms nerve irritation and promotes relaxation
German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Bisabolol supports inflammation relief, soothing nerve-related discomfort
Carrier Oils
Hemp seed oil: Light and anti-inflammatory, ideal for sensitive, irritated skin
Apricot kernel oil: Gentle and balanced, supports absorption for sensitive skin

Cramps & Menstrual Pain
Sharp, achy, or deep cramping in the lower abdomen during menstruation or spasms in other muscles from fatigue, dehydration, or overuse.
Herbs
Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Gingerols relax smooth muscles and reduce inflammation, easing uterine spasms
Wood betony (Stachys officinalis): Glycosides calm muscle tension and nervous irritation, supporting cramp relief
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): Anethole acts as an antispasmodic, soothing uterine contractions and digestive discomfort (Avoid fennel if pregnant or breastfeeding)
Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus): Viburnin relaxes uterine muscles, easing spasms
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Apigenin calms muscle spasms and promotes relaxation
Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus): Flavonoids support uterine tone, reducing cramp intensity
Essential Oils
Mandarin (Citrus reticulata): Limonene and gamma-terpinene promote relaxation and reduce muscle spasms, uplifting during cramps
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin): Patchoulol supports inflammation relief and calms muscle tension, grounding the body
Clary sage (Salvia sclarea): Sclareol supports hormone balance, relieving menstrual cramps
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Linalool relaxes muscles and eases tension
Marjoram (Origanum majorana): Terpinen-4-ol warms and soothes cramping muscles
Carrier Oils
Apricot kernel oil: Gentle and balanced, perfect for sensitive abdominal skin
Castor oil: Ricinoleic acid penetrates deeply, supporting cramp relief

Gout
Intense, throbbing pain and swelling, often in the big toe or other joints, caused by uric acid buildup.
Herbs
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): Rosmarinic acid reduces inflammation and calms nervous tension, supporting gout pain relief
Corn silk (Zea mays): Flavonoids and potassium promote diuresis, aiding uric acid excretion to reduce gout flares
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria): Salicylates provide pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects, but avoid if allergic to aspirin
Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus): Anthocyanins and antioxidants reduce inflammation and support joint health
Nettle (Urtica dioica): Uric acid-binding compounds support elimination, reducing gout flares (internal use)
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Curcumin supports inflammation relief, easing joint swelling.
Celery seed (Apium graveolens): 3-n-butylphthalide supports uric acid excretion, but use cautiously (avoid in pregnancy)
Essential Oils
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Camphor and 1,8-cineole boost circulation and reduce inflammation, easing joint pain
Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum): Eugenol supports inflammation relief and muscle relaxation, soothing gout discomfort
Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata): Linalool and benzyl acetate promote relaxation, calming nerve-related tension
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii): Boswellic acids support inflammation relief, reducing gout pain
Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Menthol cools and relieves throbbing joint pain
Juniper berry (Juniperus communis): Terpinen-4-ol supports detoxification, aiding uric acid clearance
Carrier Oils
Kombo butter: Deeply anti-inflammatory, penetrates well for inflamed joints
Olive oil: Anti-inflammatory, supports joint comfort
Affiliate DisclosureThis post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I use and trust. Thank you for supporting Clover Ridge Herbs. |
Recipes
Willow Bark Tincture (Headaches, Joint Pain, Cramps)
dried white willow bark
80–100 proof vodka or Everclear
Fill a mason jar about half full with willow bark, then top off with alcohol up to the shoulder of the jar. Place the lid on, and allow to infuse for about four weeks.
Use: 1–3 dropperfuls every 4 hours as needed for aches, cramps, arthritis, or headaches
Note: Contains salicylates; use caution if on blood thinners, avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Sinus Headache Inhaler
7 drops lavender
5 drops peppermint
2 drops rosemary
Place essential oil drops onto the cotton wick, place the wick in the inhaler, and snap on the bottom cap. Label. Unscrew the top and inhale as needed for relief. Use cautiously in those with asthma or respiratory sensitivities. Not for children under the age of 10.
Ache Away Soak
1 part hops
1 part calendula
1 part Epsom salt
Mix herbs and salt together, and store in an airtight glass container. Fill a muslin bag with the blend and toss it into the bathtub as it is filling with water (alternatively, use as a foot soak). Soak for 15-30 minutes
Arnica-Comfrey Recovery Oil (Muscle Aches, Joint Pain)
2 Tbsp dried arnica flowers
2 Tbsp dried comfrey leaves
apricot or almond oil
In a 4-oz jar, add the dried herbs and top off with carrier oil. Place the lid securely on the jar, and shake. Allow to infuse for about 4 weeks, with periodic shaking. Strain off the herbs. Use this oil as a massage oil, or use beeswax to create a pain-relieving salve. Do not use on open wounds or broken skin.
Pain-Away Roll-On (3% dilution)
3 drops frankincense
2 drops copaiba
1 drop sweet marjoram
10 ml grapeseed oil or Arnica-Comfrey Recovery Oil
Place essential oil drops into the roller bottle, add carrier oil up to the shoulder, snap in the roller cap, and shake gently. Be sure to label the bottle. Shake gently before each use, then roll over sore muscles as needed. Do not use on open wounds or broken skin.
Lemon Ginger Salve (Joint Pain, Cramps)
4 Tbsp cut and dried ginger
4 oz coconut oil
1 oz beeswax
20 drops lemon essential oil
In a 4-oz jar, add the coconut oil and heat over low heat in a double boiler to melt the coconut oil. Once soft, add in the dried ginger. Allow to warm over low heat for 4-6 hours. Strain out the ginger, and return the infused coconut oil to the double boiler, adding in the beeswax. Heat until the beeswax is melted, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before blending in the lemon essential oil. Pour into salve tins or small jars. Be sure to label.
Nerve Tea
1 Tbsp dried tulsi
1 Tbsp dried lemon balm
1 Tbsp dried linden
1 tsp dried lemon peel
1 tsp dried ginger
Adjust amounts per your preferences. Blend together and store in an airtight container. Use 2-3 tsp per 8oz of hot water, steeping covered for 10-15 minutes to create a nerve-soothing tea. Can be enjoyed daily, but if on medications, check with your provider first.
Gout Relief Tea
1 Tbsp dried nettle leaves
1 Tbsp dried corn silk
1 Tbsp dried lemon balm
1 tsp dried lemon peel
Adjust amounts per your preferences. Blend together and store in an airtight container. Use 2-3 tsp per 8oz of hot water, steeping covered for 10-15 minutes to create a soothing, anti-inflammatory tea. Can be enjoyed daily, but if on medications, check with your provider first.

Where to Start
New to herbal remedies? Begin with easy-to-find ingredients like dried herbs (lavender, ginger, chamomile), essential oils (lavender, peppermint), and carrier oils (coconut, olive) from trusted suppliers. Tools like mason jars, muslin bags (reusable cloth pouches for bath herbs), and personal aromatherapy inhalers are simple to use. It's a good idea to patch-test new herbs and oils, and consult a healthcare provider if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medications.
Realistic Goals
Herbs and oils can support comfort and healing, but may not fully resolve chronic pain or gout flares. Pair with rest, hydration, and professional medical advice as needed.
Pair remedies with lifestyle habits:
Hydration: Drink water (sodas don't count as water, and their pro-inflammatory ingredient make things worse)
Heat/Cold: Use a heating pad with Lemon Ginger Salve for cramps or joints, or ice for acute muscle soreness
Rest: Prioritize sleep, keep a nightly relaxation routine, and go to bed at the same time every night
Movement: Gentle movements complement Pain-Away Roll-On for muscle relief
Always seek professional medical advice for persistent pain
Final Thoughts
Don’t let pain ruin your day! God has supplied us with the tools to find relief. With provisions of herbs and oils, we can craft simple, natural remedies like Gout Relief Tea for flares, Sinus Headache Inhaler for throbbing pain, or Pain-Away Roll-On for sore muscles. Pick a recipe, start small, and share your creations in the comments.
Comments