Sept/Oct 2019 15
HEALTH PLANTS
AD
OBE
ST
OCK
/SE
BRA
|^ GOOD TO KNOW |
Pain Relief for Arthritis
Some scientific studies have highlighted copaiba’s anti-inflammatory effects to
counteract arthritis pain. In a study published in Complementary Therapy in Clinical
Practice, participants who received hand massages with copaiba mixed with a blend
of oils known as “Deep Blue” reported 50 percent less pain, improved strength
in their fingers, and increased dexterity when compared to those treated with a
coconut oil placebo.
Copaiba can potentially be helpful in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain in
animals, too. An animal study published in the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry found
that copaiba demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory activity throughout the body,
and reduced the number of free radicals involved in the degradation of joints in
arthritic conditions. Melissa Shelton, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, recommends
administering one drop of ingestible copaiba oil per 50 pounds, twice daily for ani-
mals. You can also apply a drop or two of the oil topically, diluted in a small amount
of carrier oil.
you have any sensitivity to the oil.
Discontinue use if you experience any
skin sensitivity. Use essential oils with
caution and the advice of a qualified
natural health practitioner during
pregnancy or in the treatment of any
health condition.
Once you’ve chosen your copaiba
oil, and have tested it for any allergic
reactions, you can safely begin to reap
its multiple benefits. There are many
ways to use copaiba essential oil:
Diffuse it or mix it with water to form
an aerosol for inhalation to improve
your mood, or apply it topically on
painful, wounded, or cancerous areas.
The Future of Copaiba
While the extent of copaiba’s
treatments for disease remain to
be proven in scientific studies, the
early findings in medical research of
copaiba oil offer abounding optimism
for the future of medicine. Hopefully,
copaiba’s healing properties will
continue to propel scientific research
onward and fortify conclusions about
its efficacy.
With more research comes the
possibility for more insights into
safe dosing and approved methods
of application in addressing bacterial
infections and disease. A more
specific understanding of copaiba
oil’s interaction with the ECS could
help treat disorders of the immune
system and neurodegenerative
diseases. Copaiba also holds
inspiration for greater research
into the possibility of treating and
preventing cancer.
We have the Amazon rainforest
to thank for this amazing tree
and its essential oil, which, for
now, can provide an alternative
way to topically address pain,
inflammation, and skin disorders.
Dr. Michelle Schoffro Cook, PhD, DNM is
an internationally best-selling and 20-time
book author whose works include:
Be Your Own Herbalist and The Cultured
Cook. Learn more about her work at
http://www.FoodHouseProject.com and
http://www.DrMichelleCook.com.
Be Your Own Herbalist
Essential Herbs for Health, Beauty, and Cooking
ÆIn Be Your Own Herbalist, author Michelle Schoffro
Cook profiles 31 common and readily available herbs,
sharing scientific discoveries about their usefulness and
offering practical ways of incorporating these “Mother
Nature Medicines” back into daily life.
This title is available at http://www.MotherEarthLiving.com/Store or by calling 800-456-6018.
Mention promo code MMLPAJZC. Item #7877.