Essential Oils and Their Usage in Aromatherapy Massage
by Miranda Sterman ~ March 13th, 2009. Filed under: Health.
Aromatherapy is defined as an alternative form of medical practice that is different from the commonly accepted mainstream medical practice. In aromatherapy, the use of essential oils to be used to bring about the desired effects is done. These oils are rubbed on the body and they are responsible for causing a relaxed, stress-free feeling. In addition, these aromatherapy massage oils help to alleviate muscle tension problem and improve the body’s circulation.
Aromatherapy massage oils are an essential oil that is mixed with an already existing oil to produce the heightened feeling. The essential oils generally enter the body in 2 ways. One is through the nose when being inhaled. The other is through the skin during the rubbing process. Once inside they enter the main bloodstream and are transported to different body parts. Aromatherapy thus has 2 benefits; one is that it carries the benefits of a normal average massage while the other is that it adds the health benefits of the aromatherapy massage oil.
The use of the essential oils by aromatherapists and therapists is not new and most of them when recommending stress-relieving therapies, point out to their clients the benefits of an aromatherapy massage.
Another advantage of going for an aromatherapy treatment is the fact that you get to choose the essential oil you want applied on your body. Masseuse will usually have a number of bottles of aromatherapy massage oils; both blended and unblended giving one a wide variety of options. They may also mix a blend for you, apply it on your body and carry the remaining one home for your do-it-yourself aromatherapy massage.
All essential oils used in aromatherapy treatments have been extracted from plants. There are a number of processes used to ensure the extracts are pure. Whether by distillation or by expression, the essential oils are then packed in bottles ready for use. These oils come in many flavors ranging from eucalyptus, grapefruit oils to myrtle.
Another benefit of aromatherapy massages is that the aromatherapy massage oil not only feels wonderful during a backrub, but also the whole experience is enhanced by the scent that the oils produce. On top of that, the essential oils have the benefit of toning and moisturizing the skin.
The effectiveness of the massage is also enhanced due to the fact that oils make the movements of the hands more natural and smoother. Therefore, deep and hard-to-reach points can be easily kneaded resulting in a relaxed massage. The aromatherapy massage oil that is used needs to thus be not only healing, but easy to work with and fun.
Aromatherapy treatments and massages are different from others because they provide that mind and body connection. At the time of application, the oils get to the brain by inhaling. Eventually once absorbed, they can penetrate the body and bloodstream and affect the other body parts. Furthermore, the oils can be used as detergents or to wash around the house. The superiority of aromatherapy is thus, largely because of this mind body connection that other health options do not have.
