Benefits of Adding Essential Oils to Massage

5:03 PM Posted by jo

Massage is considered one of the most effective ways of administer essential oils, The essential oils are absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, and the therapeutic properties of the essential oils will reach different parts of the body. The essential oils have powerful therapeutic properties that will enhance the healing effects of the massage. The benefits of massage are many and, with the right choice of essential oils, the healing is enormous. The muscles, nerves, and the lymphatic system all benefit from massage.

The only way lymph moves around is with the help of muscular contraction and relaxation, Massage will increase those functions so the movement of lymph is encouraged. Oils like peppermint, juniper berry, rosemary, orange and grapefruit are said to stimulate the circulation of the lymph and tissue fluids. The circulation of blood is also increased during massage, and the amount of blood cells is increased. The blood flows three times faster than normal during massage, and the work required by the heart is reduced.

The main function of the lymphatic system is to drain the excessive fluid from the tissues and the cells, help fighting infections, and distribute fat soluble nutrients. Juniper Berry essential oil is a powerful diuretic, and can therefore enhance the healing of massage in conditions such as fluid retention, by increasing the flow or urine. All essential oils with diuretic properties will assist in increasing the detoxification process in the body.

The skin may become firmer, more elastic, and softer by massage since the circulation to the skin is enhanced. The increased circulation of the blood stimulates the nerve supply to the muscles, and therefore the muscle tone is improved. Black Pepper is a circulatory stimulant that will increase circulation, and assist in improving the muscle tone.

Massage can also be used to relieve pain, encourage relaxation and assist in elimination of toxins. Essential oils with analgesic properties like black pepper ( Piper nigrum), bay (Laurus nobilis) and cajuput (Melaleuca leucadendron) are excellent choices in conditions of aches and pain.

Massage is beneficial to the nervous system and it can be either sedating or uplifting. Bergamot (Citrus aurantium var, bergamia) and basil (Ocimum basilicum) are essential oils with with affinity with the nervous system, Bergamot is a relaxant nervine, and beneficial in relieving tension in the body. Basil is a stimulant nervine and will stimulate the body. Nervines strengthen the body.

You can make massage oil blends and rub on your own skin, it doesn't have to be done by a professional massage therapist. You might not get the whole body massage, but it is still beneficial. I like to add essential oils to massage oil and use it instead of body lotion after the shower, or to put on aching joints or muscles.

Please remember it is not advisable to massage in conditions such as inflamed or swollen joints, fractures, hemorrhages, inflammation, inflamed veins, or cancer.

I like to gently put on a massage oil blend in situations where my son has sprained his ankle, or is in pain from playing football.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. She also runs Naturally Sports & Wellness together with her husband.
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