I am Alaura Pittman, an aromatherapist, and student of herbs. I believe plants are our greatest allies, and that tackling our emotional well-being can aid in our body's health and dis-ease. My passion is helping others discover their unique path to self-healing. I began studying the healing powe…
FAQs:
What is Aromatherapy Massage?
An aromatherapy massage is a type of Swedish massage that uses essential oils (highly concentrated plant oils). Its main focus is relaxation and mindfulness. During an aromatherapy massage, you both inhale these essential oil molecules and absorb them through your skin. Its main focus is relaxation and mindfulness.
How Does Aromatherapy Massage Work?
The process of aromatherapy is just like any other massage. After scheduling an appointment with your therapist, you will then discuss any issues you have or what you need to work on (only if this was not discussed prior). Then after you let the therapist know what type of condition you have or what specific oils you would like they will then give you your options. If a client isn’t requesting a massage to heal any nerves, muscles, or joints, they can ask for a more general request such as an energizing, uplifting, relaxing, or decongesting massage. Once you choose your oils, the therapist will give you time to un-robe and situate. Then your experience will begin.
In terms of the research that backs the science of essential oils; it is conflicting. There is clear evidence of essential oils aiding people in their healing process, but there is no clear research that shows how essential oils directly correlate to that healing process.
Here are the facts:
- Essential Oils can make people feel good
- Aromatherapy is a widely used practice
- So far the dangers of oils arise only when clients are allergic to them (which is not common)
What Can Aromatherapy Massage Help With?
As well as being great for soothing sore muscles along with any other aches and pains, aromatherapy massage can help to ease the symptoms of many medical conditions. When combined with relaxing essential oils such as lavender or bergamot, aromatherapy massage can be beneficial for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. As your sense of smell and your emotions are so closely linked, aromatherapy is able to tap into your emotions, directly impacting your mental well-being and promoting restorative sleep. Studies have also shown that aromatherapy massage can be beneficial for patients being treated for cancer. When cancer patients were treated with two aromatherapy massages per week, their levels of stress and anxiety were reduced whilst the function of their immune system improved. Aromatherapy massage has also been proven to reduce menstrual cramping. A 2015 study found that the severity of pain reported was significantly lower in women who massaged themselves with rose oil on the first day of their cycle.
Which Oils to Use During an Aromatherapy Massage?
Each oil has its own unique benefits and qualities. You’ll experience the best results if you purchase high-quality oils, such as those that are organic and therapeutic-grade. Look for them online or in health food stores. Here are suggestions for different scents/oils to use:
1. To decrease discomfort, pain, or inflammation: peppermint, frankincense, rosemary, geranium, cypress, helichrysum, or cedarwood.
2. To help decrease swelling and increase circulation: sandalwood, juniper berry, cypress, grapefruit, and frankincense.
3. To help you unwind and sleep: lavender, chamomile, or ylang-ylang.
4. To improve focus and energy: grapefruit, peppermint, lemon, orange, or spearmint.
How Long Does an Aromatherapy Massage Session Last?
Aromatherapy massage sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes. During this time, the massage therapist will use a combination of massage techniques, essential oils, and aromatherapy to help relax and rejuvenate the body. The massage therapist will begin the session by discussing the client’s needs and preferences. This will help the therapist determine which essential oils and massage techniques will be used during the session.
How Can Aromatherapy Massage Help Relieve Stress and Tension?
An aromatherapy massage is a type of massage therapy that combines the use of essential oils with massage techniques to create a calming and therapeutic experience. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and treat a variety of ailments. When used in massage, essential oils are thought to be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, where they can interact with the body’s natural systems to create a calming effect.
How Often Should You Have an Aromatherapy Massage?
The frequency of aromatherapy massage can vary from person to person depending on their individual needs. Generally speaking, it is recommended that one receive an aromatherapy massage at least once a month. However, if you are looking for more frequent relief, then you may want to consider receiving an aromatherapy massage more often. For those who are dealing with chronic pain or stress, it is recommended that they receive an aromatherapy massage once a week.
Is Aromatherapy Massage Safe During Pregnancy?
Maybe not. A prenatal massage itself is generally considered safe. If you have calf pain or a history of blood clots, don’t get a massage. If you’re looking for an aromatherapy massage while pregnant, speak to a doctor about which oils may be safe ahead of time. There’s concern that essential oils can cross over into the placenta and result in fetal harm.
According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, you should avoid the following essential oils if you’re pregnant:
- aniseed
- basil
- birch
- parsley
- pennyroyal
- sage
- tarragon
- Wintergreen
Should You Shower After an Aromatherapy Massage?
Showering after an aromatherapy massage session is a huge mistake. Most people shower after an aromatherapy massage to rinse the oil off the body. This is undesirable as the expected outcome of the massage is for the essential oils to be absorbed by the body to provide their therapeutic benefits. The aromatherapy massage just heats the essential oils and they need an additional hour just to be absorbed into the skin. Wait at least an hour before you use the shower after a massage session to ensure you absorb all the therapeutic goodness of the essential oils. When taking a shower an hour after the aromatherapy massage, use cold water or warm water for optimal post-massage relaxation. Most people are tempted to have hot showers but this could end up being counterproductive as the heat could end up further inflaming injured and aching muscles that might have been just treated. Warm water is the perfect balance between cold and hot that will help you relax while not contributing to any further inflammation.
What’s the Difference Between Massage and Aromatherapy?
The big difference between a massage and aromatherapy is that one uses essential oils and the other doesn’t. Massage therapy usually includes the use of physical touch. Aromatherapy, on the other hand, can be practiced without any contact. This type of therapy requires inhaling the fragrance of essential oils. Aromatherapy massage, on the other hand, has grown in popularity. Aromatherapy massage fuses the benefits of classic massages with fragrant essential or concentrated oils. These oils are typically made from a wide range of plants. As a result, aromatherapy massage is beneficial to both the mind and the body.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy, also called essential oils therapy, is a holistic healing technique that utilizes natural essential oils for therapeutic purposes. It does not use any artificial fragrances or aromatic mixtures that are often used in the perfume industry. Instead, it uses pure essential oils that are concentrated extracts of various plants. Aromatherapists are trained professionals who specialize in the use of restorative essential oils for aromatherapy.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are made from flower, herb, and tree parts, like bark, roots, peels, and petals. The cells that give a plant its fragrant smell are its "essence." When an essence is extracted from a plant, it becomes an essential oil. It takes a lot of plant products to make essential oils. More than 200 pounds of lavender flowers are used to make just 1 pound of lavender essential oil. Not all products made with plant essence are essential oils. True essential oils aren't blended with other chemicals or fragrances. They're made using a specific process that doesn't change the chemistry of the plant. Lemon, chamomile, lavender, cedarwood, and bergamot are a few of the essential oils used regularly in aromatherapy
Types of Massage That Can Be Combined with Aromatherapy
Almost any type of massage can be combined with aromatherapy, with different types of massage suited to different conditions. Some of the most well-known types of massage used alongside essential oils are Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and hot stone massage. The essential oils may be mixed with a carrier oil and used as part of the massage, or they might be added to a diffuser for inhalation during the massage.
1. Swedish Massage with Aromatherapy
Swedish massage, also known as classical massage, is a type of full-body massage. Therapists use varying pressures and techniques to release tension in the body and eliminate knots in the muscles. Swedish massage is a comfortable massage technique that is often used for relaxation and stress relief. This type of massage is ideal for people who are new to massage. Essential oils commonly used during a Swedish massage include geranium, lavender, sweet orange, patchouli, and cedarwood.
2. Deep Tissue Massage with Aromatherapy
Deep tissue massage is a technique mainly used for high levels of muscle tension or musculoskeletal problems including injuries or strains such as tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome. This massage technique puts emphasis on areas of the body where you might be suffering from high muscle tension or pain. Essential oils commonly used during a deep tissue massage to reduce pain, inflammation, or swelling include eucalyptus, chamomile, rosemary, peppermint, and marjoram.
3. Hot Stone Massage with Aromatherapy
The hot stone massage is designed for ultimate relaxation. This massage technique uses hot lava stones strategically placed on the body to increase blood circulation. The stones should be hot enough to stimulate blood flow but not so hot as to burn. This type of massage helps to relieve aches and muscle spasms whilst supporting wellness. Ylang-ylang, palmarosa, and chamomile essential oils are often used during hot stone massages to foster relaxation and promote sleep.
4. Aromatherapy Scalp Massage
Scalp massages are great for relaxation. In fact, a 2016 study found that scalp massages can also help lower blood pressure and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. But add in aromatherapy, and they can also encourage hair growth and help ease tension headaches and migraines. Some of the most popular essential oils for aromatherapy scalp massage which offer these benefits include lavender, peppermint, and rosemary. Bergamot is also a popular essential oil for aromatherapy scalp massages. This essential oil helps to soften and tame curly hair, leaving it silky and smooth. If you want to feel like you’ve just left a spa, bergamot oil is a great option.
Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage
Aroma therapeutic massage not only has the client leaving with a full body massage, but they also allegedly provide emotional healing and relaxation. The benefits are on a long list that also includes a few of the same benefits as any other massage. Below are a few of the general benefits of a massage that incorporates aromatherapy:
- Stress-reducing
- Anxiety reliever
- Increased calmness and relaxation
- Decrease in muscle tension
- Pain relief
- A reduction of symptoms of depression
Ease of pain from various conditions listed below:
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic lower back pain
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Arthritis
- Insomnia relief
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Polymyalgia rheumatica
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Different Essential Oils and Uses
Many different oils have different uses and effects.
1. Basil essential oil is used to sharpen concentration and alleviate some of the symptoms of depression. It may relieve headaches and migraines. It should be avoided during pregnancy.
2. Bergamot essential oil is said to be helpful for the urinary tract and digestive tract. When combined with eucalyptus oil it may help relieve skin problems, including those caused by stress and chicken pox.
3. Black pepper essential oil is commonly used for stimulating circulation, muscular aches and pains, and bruises. Combined with ginger essential oil, it is used to reduce arthritis pain and improve flexibility.
4. Chamomile essential oil can treat eczema.
5. Citronella essential oil is a relative of lemongrass and acts as an insect repellent.
6. Clove essential oil is a topical analgesic, or painkiller, that is commonly used for toothache. It is also used as an antispasmodic antiemetic, for preventing vomiting and nausea, and as a carminative, preventing gas in the gut. It has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties.
7. Eucalyptus essential oil can help relieve the airways during a cold or flu. It is often combined with peppermint. Many people are allergic to eucalyptus, so care should be taken.
8. Geranium essential oil can be used for skin problems, to reduce stress, and as a mosquito repellant.
9. Jasmine essential oil has been described as an aphrodisiac. While scientific evidence is lacking, research has shown that the odor of jasmine increases beta waves, which are linked to alertness. As a stimulant, it might increase penile blood flow.
10. Lavender essential oil is used as an antiseptic for minor cuts and burns and to enhance relaxation and sleep. It is said to relieve headaches and migraine symptoms.
11. Lemon essential oil is said to improve mood and help relieve the symptoms of stress and depression.
12. Rosemary essential oil may promote hair growth, boost memory, prevent muscle spasms, and support the circulatory and nervous systems.
13. Sandalwood essential oil is believed by some to have aphrodisiac qualities.
14. Tea tree essential oil is said to have antimicrobial, antiseptic, and disinfectant qualities. It is commonly used in shampoos and skin care products, to treat acne, burns, and bites. It features in mouth rinses but it should never be swallowed, as it is toxic.
15. Thyme essential oil is said to help reduce fatigue, nervousness, and stress.
16. Yarrow essential oil is used to treat symptoms of cold and flu, and to help reduce joint inflammation.
What Happens in an Aromatherapy Session
An aromatherapy massage is a pretty widely available massage therapy that can be booked at most spas and massage clinics. That being said, the techniques used, the level of care and tailoring of the massage therapy to an individual, and the essential oils used can vary.
Most massage therapists have pre-made essential oil blends that they have personally perfected over their careers working with numerous clients that have exhibited similar issues. Based on their experience and your situation, the therapist’s first point of action is choosing the right blend for your current mental and physical situation.
A massage tailored for stress management and relaxation will likely include lavender essential oil due to its relaxing properties and more energizing and uplifting massage therapy would include rosemary essential oils. Your therapist might also include you in the process of essential oil selection and make you sample and smell various blends to understand your level of comfort with a certain blend.
There is a wide variation in the quality and effectiveness of essential oils. Synthetic scent-based oils are completely different from essential oils as they have no therapeutic properties and are purely fragrance-based. Highly skilled and educated massage therapists are very committed to identifying and acquiring the best available essential oils they can provide to clients to ensure quality and efficient therapeutic results.
After aromatherapy essential oils are selected by the therapist, he or she leaves the room to give you privacy to undress and lay down on the massage table comfortably and privately. The usual posture is face down on the massage bed with a sheet covering you on top.
Once the aromatherapy massage starts, you will sense the subtle fragrances of the essential oils as you go deeper into relaxation. On completion of the massage, the massage therapist might even suggest an essential oil blend or two that you could either purchase from them or make a note of to purchase at your convenience to use at home for personal relaxation sessions.
How to Do Aromatherapy Massage Safely
It’s a great idea to give yourself massages at home regularly to keep your mind, muscles, and joints happy. Here are some tips for safely practicing a self-massage using aromatherapy or giving one to someone else:
1. Choose which part of the body you want to focus on most, such as your shoulders, back, feet, legs, or neck. (If massaging the neck or spine be careful to use gentle touch if you’re not a professional.) You can even massage small amounts of oils onto your face for anti-aging effects.
2. It’s simplest and safest to use your hands to massage, but you can also try a massage gun, foam roller, or even a tennis ball for extra pressure.
3. Decide whether you want to diffuse scents in the room or apply them to your skin. If applying them, use a carrier oil or massage oil, or lotion, and mix in one to three drops of your chosen essential oil. (See below for recommendations based on your goals.)
4. Massage your body using your fingers and palms in firm, circular motions. Try going in one direction, then switching and moving in the other. For the best results, focus on one area at a time for about five to 10 minutes.
5. A big aspect of aromatherapy massages is breathing. Remember to keep breathing steadily!
6. After the massage is over, drink plenty of water. Some people also use a warm compress or an ice pack on tight areas to help promote healing.
Aromatherapy Massage Risks
There are generally few risks associated with aromatherapy massage. One consideration is possible sensitivity to the essential oils used during your session. Your massage therapist should always dilute the oil with massage lotion or carrier oil before applying it to the skin. If you’re unsure about a particular oil, ask the therapist to diffuse it in the room instead of applying it directly to your skin. Possible symptoms of an allergic reaction to essential oils include:
- rash
- hives
- redness
- swelling
- itchiness
Another consideration is the lack of regulation over essential oils and essential oil products used in an aromatherapy massage. Since many essential oils are considered cosmetics, the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate them for safety and effectiveness.
Tips for Aromatherapy Massage
When signing up for an aromatherapy massage, consider the following tips to make the most of this or any type of massage session:
1. Choose an essential oil based on your needs. For example, you might choose a citrusy scent for boosting your mood, lavender for relaxation, or eucalyptus for pain management.
2. Decide whether you want the oil diffused or applied directly to your skin during your massage. If you have any known sensitivities to a particular oil, it’s best to steer clear and choose something else.
3. Don’t go to your massage on a full stomach — this could cause stomach upset during and after your session.
4. Do drink water before and immediately after your massage and consider having a snack.
5. Take a warm shower after your massage. This helps remove any oils left on your skin.
Your massage therapist is also your first source for questions about an aromatherapy massage experience. They should be able to recommend specific essential oils and discuss what products and techniques they would use based on your needs. If the therapist doesn’t seem confident about aromatherapy massage, they may not have much experience including it in their sessions.
Some essential oils can irritate asthma and other breathing problems. When applied to the skin, essential oils made from citrus fruits can make the skin more vulnerable to sunlight. Avoid sun exposure after grapefruit, orange, or other citrus oil is used on your skin.
Also, don’t be afraid to speak up during your massage. If something doesn’t feel right, let the therapist know. You can also ask them to apply more oils and use more or less pressure at any point.
Remember that this is a quiet space, so your therapist won’t want to interrupt your experience with questions — it’s up to you to speak up. You might reap some of the benefits of aromatherapy outside of massage sessions by diffusing essential oils in your own home.
How to Find a Massage Therapist
Like choosing other healthcare professionals, it's essential to be a conscious consumer when selecting a massage therapist. Ask your primary care provider or someone else you trust to recommend a reputable business or therapist.
Don't be afraid to ask a potential massage therapist questions such as:
- Are you licensed, certified, or registered?
- What are your training and experience?
- How many massage therapy sessions do you think I'll need?
- What's the cost, and is it covered by health insurance?
A skilled therapist has a vast toolbox of techniques that can be incorporated based on your needs, and he or she will respond and modify these techniques based on your feedback. Massage therapy is safe and effective for people of all ages. It's not only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. It's a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are looking for a stress reliever.
Sources:
The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.
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