Aromatherapy massage is a massage that is done with essential oils. The essential oils are mixed with other carrier oils and used for the massage to improve the health of the person. Essential oils have a healing effect on the nervous system, the mind and the entire body. The way aromatherapy massage works is that when you inhale the fragrance of essential oils, the oil molecules are transmitted from the nose to the complete body, affecting your immune system, digestion, memory, breathing, blood pressure, stress level and heart rate. Essential oils can also be absorbed by the skin.
People generally get an aromatherapy massage done to recover from emotional problems or stress-related conditions. Back pain, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), digestive disorders, headaches and stress are some of the reasons why people get aromatherapy massage done.
Research: Research shows that aromatherapy massage can have a positive affect on people. Some instances to show you how – research has shown that when people with lymphedema massage themselves with essential oils, they get relief from the symptoms. Another research shoes that a group of new mothers got aromatherapy massage done for half-an-hour daily after they delivered, while another group of new mothers got regular normal post-partum care. The result showed that the group that received aromatherapy massage suffered from less of post-partum blues than the other group, and were more energetic. Cancer patients are also using aromatherapy massage to get relief from the intense treatment.
Precautions: While aromatherapy can be beneficial, it is not recommended for those who have:
• Open wounds, rashes or skin disease
• Are recovering from surgery
• Just got over with a session of radiation or chemotherapy
• Chances of getting blood clots
Massage should not be done directly over inflamed skin, bruises, abdominal hernia or unhealed wounds. Pregnant women should speak to their doctor before getting aromatherapy massage done.
Another point to remember is that after eating a heavy meal, you should not get a massage done.
Essential oils used in aromatherapy massage: As mentioned above, aromatherapy is a holistic treatment that is done with essential oils. These oils are cold-pressed from roots, bark, fruit and flowers. These oils can have a positive impact on the physical and the psychological wellbeing of a person. Various fragrances of essential oils have different uses and benefits, and the therapist chooses oils according to the patient’s requirement.
Apart from massage, aromatherapy can be administered to a patient through bath, bath products, compresses and inhalation.