I’m Using Essential Oils to Help with My Symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth
The other day, I went to a class to learn about using essential oils. I know that these plant substances have health benefits and I was curious to see if they could help with some of my symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT). I wanted to explore a natural way to deal with the pain associated with neuropathy and CMT.
I currently manage occasional nerve and hip pains with over-the-counter medications, though I would prefer to have an alternative treatment. I don’t believe essential oils can’t replace medicines, but I thought that perhaps they could help with pain management. I use lavender oil at night to help me sleep and peppermint oil for headaches. I have experienced improvements with the oils. However, I respect that everyone has different views on this subject and what works for me may not help someone else.
During the class, I spoke to the instructor about some of my issues: sacroiliac joint pain, muscle cramps, and nerve pain. She listened and gave me the names of some oils for those specific issues. Other useful oils are listed here. Some of the oils she mentioned are:
- Helichrysum essential oil: reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Peppermint essential oil: to help reduce spasms.
- Frankincense: to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Lemongrass: for its calming properties.
- Roman chamomile: reported to have anti-inflammatory benefits.
While I am aware there is little research available on the benefits of essential oils and CMT, I have read of others with CMT who have reported positive outcomes with essential oils. I am just starting to dabble in this therapy, so my knowledge is limited.
As I learn more about how CMT affects my body, I’m also finding out how the foods I eat have an impact, too. I am taking a more holistic approach to my health and well-being; for example, I’ve reduced the amount of gluten I consume and have noticed a decrease in pain. I am trying to exercise more and get extra sleep — that’s where lavender oil comes in. I know that oils should not replace medications or a visit to the doctor. My goal is to incorporate essential oils into lifestyle changes. It’s a work in progress.
Do you use essential oils? If so, what are your favorites?
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Note: Charcot-Marie-Tooth News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Charcot-Marie-Tooth News or its parent company, Bionews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
About the Author
Gary Hess
I wish I could use essential oils but I'm allergic to fragrances, even natural ones.
Thank you for your contributing article.
Gary Hess
CMT2 afflicted
Jill Price
Thanks, sorry you can not use them.
Tamra
Essential oils do not have fragrances in them, and in most cases they dont have the protein that people are allergic to, so essential oils are probably a possibility for you
Meridith Scherer
Yes! I am a doTERRA Wellness Advocate and have been teaching classes for over 6 years and using essential oils for over 8. I love them. They have been a game changer for our family.
Jill Price
Good to know! I am learning more and moire about the benefits.
Jennifer Sandowsky
Jill, I am thinking Young Living Oregano Oil, it is so powerful. You need to use it with a carrier oil like coconut oil, etc....it doesn’t smell as nice, but I love it. Also many inflammatory issues need more alkaline balance. It’s worth looking into, xoxo
Jill Price
Thanks, Jen! I will try it!!!!!
Liz
Hello! I've been using arnica oil, it helps with muscle aches.
Jill Price
Thanks, good to know.
Chalise Mills
Thank you for writing this! Does the peppermint reduce muscle or nerve spasms? I occasionally will get nerve spasm type pain when I'm laying in bed. It feels like someone starts poking my toes with needles and dragging it up my foot. Also have you discovered anything to support myelin sheaths? I'm looking as well. :)
Jill Price
I am not 100% sure about peppermint but I would try it and see if it helps. It couldn't hurt.
I have not found anything to help with the myelin sheath but am still researching that one.
Shanae Fernandez
I use doterra essential oils and they are amazing! I use them for everything! Lavender is great for sleep and muscle cramps, and bruises, frankincense is a holy oil and is my second favorite out of the oils! I use it for when I have swollen hands and feet!Tea tree is great antibacterial oil!marjoram oil is great for muscle pain. I use them along with my prescription medications for my CMT and depression. They are truly amazing and thank you for the article!
Jill Price
Thanks for the tips! I love frankincense! I use it almost every day!
Marian Lewis
What are the best essential oils to use ? I have CMT and poly myalgia rheumatica I have pain and numbness across chest shoulders and hips. In need of something to relieve pain besides pain killers and been in steroids
Mohammed Ibrahim
Hi, I have CMT Type 4 and im 18 years of age. Do you think i should give this a try