Bone spurs, often referred to as Osteophytes, are bony growths or calcium deposits which develop on the edge of a bone, usually in the main joins such as the shoulders, knees, hips or spine. Bone spurs are sometimes known to occur in the heels or finger joints. Although bone spurs can be present for months or even years with no symptoms, they can often cause excruciating pain, weakness and sometimes numbness in the joints. Essential oils are a great way to alleviate pain from bone spurs. The chemical constituents of these concentrated plant oils allow them to be easily absorbed into the skin, penetrating the cell membrane and providing fast, effective relief.
Frankincense Essential Oil![]()
Frankincense essential oil is one of the most popular essential oils due to its many health benefits. The oil is derived from the resin of the Boswellia Sacra tree, and is great as an anti-inflammatory and pain-relief treatment. It has been used historically to treat pain, swelling, and to promote circulation in the extremities. Due to its sedative properties, frankincense can also be used to boost the immune system and provide stress relief. We recommend Doterra Frankincense essential oil which you can buy here.
Lavender Essential Oil![]()
Lavender oil is a great choice to soothe and relax aching muscles. Stress and tension can often worsen symptoms of bone spurs, so the sedative properties of lavender are a great way to relieve symptoms. Try adding a few drops of lavender with a cup of Epsom salt to a hot bath to relieve pain from bone spurs. We recommend Doterra Lavender essential oil which you can buy here.
Myrrh Essential Oil![]()
Myrrh Essential Oil is a resin oil closely related to frankincense, and is derived from the Commiphora myrrha tree, common in Africa and the Middle East. Myrrh has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and can provide relief by reducing swelling and stimulating blood flow to the tissues. We recommend Doterra Myrrh essential oil which you can buy here.
Wintergreen Essential Oil![]()
Wintergreen has long been used as a pain relief for achy joints and muscles, and synthetic versions of the plant are used in common over-the-counter muscle rubs. Due to its highly anti-inflammatory and analgesic constituents, wintergreen essential oil is one of the best pain-relieving oils available. We recommend Young Living Wintergreen essential oil which you can buy here.
Peppermint Essential Oil ![]()
Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant, and is effective for a wide variety of ailments. The cooling properties of peppermint oil can provide relief to warm or swollen joints. Peppermint has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, which allow it to provide effective relief for pain and swelling. We recommend Young Living Peppermint essential oil which you can buy here.
How to Apply Essential Oils for Bone Spurs
The best way to use essential oils for bone spurs is topical application directly to the affected areas. It’s important to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil. One oil may be used, or a few oils can be combined for added benefits. Heating the carrier oil for application may provide extra relief for pain and swelling. Essential oils can be used in conjunction with rest and ice to provide more relief for osteophytes.
Always check with your doctor before using an essential oil to make sure there are no sensitivities or interactions with your current medications. Once approved by a medical professional, essential oils are an effective, easy and inexpensive way to provide ongoing relief for bone spurs.