“Itching,” according to The Oxford Dictionary, is defined as “An uncomfortable sensation on the skin that causes a desire to scratch.” This sensation is also known as ‘Pruritus.’ This desire to itch often results in bruises, either minor or major ones. Is that pleasing? I do NOT think so. ‘Itches’ LIKE scratch, but the skin LOVES Essential Oils.
Essential oils for itching are one such natural remedy that can assist in the healing process from the condition mentioned above. Get ready to get addicted, because oils spread happiness and goodness. They most importantly spread restfulness. Now let’s get straight into it.
Types of Itching
There is no specific type for itching. Itching can be caused anywhere on your body. Although the reason for an itch in a certain type of body is always different, the nature of itches is always the same.
Sometimes it may also happen that the itch nothing but a small thing. However, in some cases, itches could point toward deadly problems.
Causes
Itching can be present in a single body part or could be present in various parts of the body. The reason or causes for this can be varied and numerous. However here are some common causes:
- Skin diseases
- Irritants
- Internal Disorders
- Infections, such as Chicken Pox, etc.
- Nervous system disorders
- Medications
- Pregnancy
Essential Oils for Itching
“If you have chosen ‘The Essential Oil’ lifestyle, raise your hand, if not, raise your Standard.”
Essential Oils are genuinely Gifts from the Almighty. They are utterly luscious and refined extracts from freshly grown plants, rich in properties, and way beyond artificial creation. Essential Oils are no stranger to issues of ‘Itching’ either. You think it can’t assist your healing process? Maybe, think again. Here are a few essential oils for itching–
- Tea Tree Oil
- Peppermint Oil
- Lavender Oil
- Rosemary Oil
- Myrrh Oil
- Cedar Wood Oil
- Rose Oil
- Geranium Oil
- Camphor oil
- Cinnamon oil
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil(1) is extracted from the leaves of the tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia. It is also known as ‘melaleuca oil’ or ‘ti-tree oil.’ This is one of the best essential oils for itching.
Why to use?
If you are looking for an answer on how to cure itching, tea tree oil is the best These are rich in antiseptic properties, thus having the ability to provide a soothing sensation to the rash infested area. It reduces skin related issues such as flaky, irritable, scaly and burning skin.
How to use?
- Boil a bucket full of water
- Add some drops of this oil
- Mix it properly
- Take the steam aiming at the targeted area
[Read: Benefits of Tea Tree Oil ]
2. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oils are extracted from the ‘peppermint plant.’ this type of plant is a heterogeneous cross between spearmint and watermint.
Why to use?
peppermint oils contain healing characteristics that aid the fast recovery of scaly, agitated and aggravated skin. It has a cooling effect on the rash and burn affected area. This oil is a magical burst of a cold and fresh sense that stimulates restfulness.
How to use?
- Take a few drops of this oil
- Add a few drops of castor oil to it
- Mix these two properly
- Apply the mixture onto the targeted area
- Massage with least pressure on it
[Read: Benefits of Peppermint Oil ]
3. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is extracted from ‘lavender buds.’ they are rich in antiseptic properties, thus, reducing bacterial growth.
Why to use?
Lavender oil, rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties help to treat flaky and itchy skin. It rehydrates and rejuvenates dead and cracked skin, from deep within. The oil assists in the soothing irritated skin and reduces the growth of bacteria and fungus on the surface.
How to use?
- Clean the area on which oil is to be applied
- Let it dry on its own in the air
- Apply the oil in 1 – 2 drops
[Read More: Health Benefits of Lavender Oil ]
4. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of ‘rosemary’ herb, which belongs to the ‘mint family,’ scientifically known as Rosmarinus officinalis.
Why to use?
Rosemary oil contains anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial properties that are best for the agitated and bacteria-infested skin. The oil contains soothing properties that bring a sense of relief to the affected area. Its autoxidizing properties prevent damage caused due to sun exposure.
How to use?
- Clean the affected area and wash your hands.
- Directly apply few drops of the oil to the affected area with gentle strokes.
5. Myrrh Oil
Myrrh oil is extracted from the small and thorny ‘Commiphora myrrha tree.’ this tree is related to the frankincense tree.
Why to use?
Myrrh oils contain anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial properties that are best for the agitated and bacteria-infested skin. It also aids in the maintenance of healthy and nourished skin. Do not use the oil in its concentrated form, instead use it with a carrier oil.
How to use?
- Boil a bucket full of water
- Add some drops of this oil
- Mix it properly
- Take the steam aiming at the targeted area
[Also Read: Health Benefits of Myrrh Essential Oil ]
6. Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood oil is extracted from various types of conifers, most commonly from the pine families.
Why to use?
Cedarwood oil has antifungal, astringent, antibacterial, and pain-reducing characteristics, thus increasing its efficiency against several rash symptoms. It is a burst of restfulness in one tiny bottle. It reduces further cell damages and rejuvenates the skin, leaving it, healthy and fresh.
How to use?
- Take a few drops of this oil
- Add a few drops of coconut oil
- Mix these two very carefully
- Apply the mixture oil onto the area of concern
7. Rose Oil
Rose oil comes from the petals of the ‘rose flower.’ it has properties that help sedates inflammation, deeply moisturizes and nourishes cracked and profoundly damaged cells.
Why to use?
Rose oil is rich in antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties, enabling it to be considered an effective treatment for irritated and aggravated skin. The oil also has cooling effects when applied to the affected area, thus calming redness.
How to use?
- Clean the area of concern with fresh water
- Let it dry on its own
- Apply a few drops of this oil
- Rub it all over the affected area
8. Geranium Oil
Geranium oil comes from ‘The pelargonium graveolens’. This oil is most commonly known for its sweet floral fragrance.
Why to use?
Geranium oil is rich in antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties, enabling it to be considered an effective treatment for irritated and aggravated skin. They are well known for their ability to absorb and retain water, thus leading to deep and complete hydration of the cells.
How to use?
- Take a few drops of this oil
- Add a few drops of castor oil to it
- Mix these two properly
- Apply the mixture onto the targeted area
- Massage with least pressure on it
[Read: Benefits of Geranium Oil ]
9. Camphor Oil
Why to use?
Camphor oil acts as an anti-inflammatory, and cooling properties. Camphor will gently warm your skin.
How to use?
Those who suffer from frequent itching frequently camphor will gently warm your skin and provide a shield to avoid itching. Add camphor oil with caution as it is strong and may cause burn or sting. So apply to mix with a carrier oil.
10. Cinnamon Oil
Why one use?
Cinnamon oil also has insects repellant properties. You should be careful while applying cinnamon oil as a concentrated dose can irritate the skin
How to use?
Cinnamon oil should be diluted before using it. Take 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon oil and 4 ounces of water. This mixture can be used as a spray onto your skin or clothing, around your home, near plants where mosquitoes are expected.
[Read: Natural Methods to Stop Itching]
Other Oils
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is extracted from the kernel of a fully-grown coconut from a well-grown coconut palm. This is the best answer for your “how to get rid of itching?”
Why to use?
Coconut oil contains a substance known as ‘lauric acid’ that lowers the presence of bacteria, viruses, and fungi on and under the surface of the skin. Lauric acid can deeply nourish skin that is apt for the itchy and flaky skin.
How to use?
- Wash the targeted area with fresh water
- Dry it with a clean towel
- Apply the oil in few drops
- Massage gently onto the focused area
2. Castor Oil
Castor oil(2) is extracted from the castor oil plant, scientifically known as ‘Ricinus communis.’
Why to use?
castor oil contains anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anti-bacterial properties that are best for the agitated and bacteria-infested skin. The oil contains soothing properties that bring a sense of relief to the affected area. It can nourish the surface from deep within and prevent further cell damage.
How to use?
- Clean the area on which oil is to be applied
- Let it dry on its own
- Apply the oil in 1 – 2 drops
- Massage gently
Best Home Remedies to Get Rid of Certain Itching
Here are some home remedies for itching
1. Aloe Vera Gel
Two teaspoons of aloe vera gel, three drops of lavender oil, two drops of chamomile oil and one drop of niaouli oil. Mix all the ingredients well and stir before use. Apply this portion on the affected area after a bath to ensure no bacterial aggravation.
[Read: Health Benefits of Aloe Vera ]
2. Baking Soda
Add 2 tbsp of baking soda to a bucket of cool water and shake it thoroughly. Now dip the affected area in it for around 30 min and then pat dry gently.
3. Ice Pack
Take an ice pack and keep it over the affected area. Use intermittently for excellent results.
Side-Effects/ Risks and Precautions
- Make sure that the usage of the oils is not too much in excess or extravagant.
- Make sure that the oils used by you are familiar to your senses. If any signs or redness, aggravation, allergy or irritation is perceived, a visit to a health expert is advisable.
- They can exhibit reactions when exposed to the sun.
- Do not consume the oils, unless consulted with a health expert.
Bottom Line
Essential oils for itching are a one-stop solution for every single type of itching problem you have been facing. Their usage requires some care as over-usage might have adverse effects on the health. To understand the exact quantity to be used for each type of essential oils for itching, consultation with an expert is desirable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Does One Differentiate Between Pure and Adulterated Oils?
- If the oil is labeled to be 100% pure essential oil, and lack the content of fatty oils in the ingredients, it is contaminated. All pure essential oils contain some amount of fatty acids
- If the oil differs a little in its scent, there is a high possibility that there are contents of alcohol, which is again, adulteration. The added substance is considered to be Ethyl Alcohol.
- If a drop of the oil is put in the water and it floats, it is the essential oil in its purest form. Although, if the oil dissolves and produces a milky substance, there are chances of the addition of Surfactants or Emulsifiers to the mixture.
2. Is It Necessary to Purchase High-Quality Oils and Why?
When high-quality oils are chosen, they stay longer with you, as they do not have properties that are skin absorbed. They are also valued more by the skin and yield better and quicker results.
