Ease Pain with Plai Essential Oil
Plai Essential Oil for Pain
Plai (Zingiber assumer is a comparatively new oil on the western massage and aromatherapy scene, but it's long been used in its native Thailand and Indonesia. It's definitely one of my go-to oils for all kinds of pain relief.
Plai is a member of the Ginger family, so the scent is very similar to ginger -- spicy/peppery with a touch of green. The roots and plant look like its more famous cousin, Zingiber officinale Roscoe. The essential oil of Plai is steam distilled from the roots of the plant. Unlike Ginger, Plai oil cools inflamed areas rather than heats, and is found to be effective in massage and aromatherapy, most especially for easing inflammatory aches and pains.
How to Use Plai Essential Oil
Plai essential oil is gentle, non-toxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating and a wonderful addition to your collection of oils. Below are some of our favorite benefits and uses of Plai essential oil.
1. Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory
Plai oil can be used as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory. In one study, its effects were compared to aspirin and it was found to be just as effective, if not more so.
2. Aches, Pains, and Arthritis
Widely used in massage, Plai essential oil can be helpful to ease minor sprains, strains, pain from arthritis and general aches and pains. For joint and muscle pain from sprains/arthritis, use 18 drops of Plai essential oil to 1 tablespoon of carrier oil and apply to the inflamed area. A blend of equal parts Plai, Black Pepper and Lemon oils massaged onto joints inflamed by arthritis was found to provide relief, according to one case study.
3. Menstrual Cramps
Use a blend of Plai, Geranium, Orange or Marjoram essential oils mixed with a carrier oil and apply to the lower abdomen and lower back to ease menstrual cramps.
4. Respiratory Problems
Use Plai in an aromatherapy diffuser to ease symptoms of respiratory cough and congestion.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only, and not intended to treat, prescribe, cure, or diagnose any disease or condition. This information is not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Dreaming Earth Botanicals is not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed. All matters pertaining to your physical health should be supervised by a health care professional. Keep all aromatherapy products out of reach of children.