People have used crystals for millennia, believing that different gems have specific healing energies that benefit your mind, body, and soul. Some believe that crystals help with pain, especially chronic, nagging ailments like a headache or arthritis. Milder symptoms, such as fever, are typically treated with home remedies or folk prescriptions while more complicated, long-lasting or severe pain is often managed in consultation with biomedical health providers.
Crystals have been used in various forms of alternative medicine since ancient times, including by the Egyptians in their tombs, the Greeks and Romans for their jewelry, and the Chinese in their acupuncture and gua sha practices. While modern medicine doesn’t always recognize or accept the metaphysical powers of these stones, many individuals report benefits and peace of mind after using them regularly.
Clear quartz is considered a master healer, and is said to reduce pain anywhere on the body, especially migraine headaches by promoting circulation and energy flow throughout the system. It is also helpful with arthritis pain and other chronic aches and pains of the joints, back, and body. Carnelian is another high-vibration stone that helps reduce menstrual cramps. It is a detoxifier that removes toxins from the bloodstream and stimulates the circulatory system. It is believed to increase the immune system, too, and is great for those suffering from allergies or asthma.
Sugilite and hematite are both effective for reducing headaches and can be rubbed on the temples to alleviate the pain. Hematite is also a great stone to have around for colds and flus, as it helps strengthen the immune system and promotes good circulation. If you are struggling with a backache or other pain in the neck, try holding a cleansed citrine or dioptase crystal near the area to help ease the discomfort.
Any crystal that promotes circulation can be effective for easing back and joint pain, such as amethyst, agate, jasper, thulite, hematite, and turquoise. Similarly, any crystal that promotes emotional stability can be useful for easing anxiety and depression associated with chronic pain. Chrysocolla is particularly effective for arthritic and rheumatic pain. A crystal that stimulates the heart chakra is a good choice for relieving chest pains, such as a bixbyite.
While skepticism is natural, the benefits of these stones are real and may just provide you with some relief for your pain, whether it’s from an emotional struggle or chronic aches and pains of the body. Regardless, it never hurts to give something new a try, especially when it could bring you some much-needed relief. So, go ahead and add a little bit of sparkle to your life with these magical healing gemstones! Emily Rekstis is a beauty and lifestyle writer based in New York City. She has written for a variety of publications, including Greatist, Racked, and Self. When she’s not at her computer, you can find her watching a mob movie or eating a burger. For more, check out her website.