Aromatherapy is frequently combined with massage therapy. Although both aromatherapy and massage can be practiced independently of each other, the combined effect of aromatherapy and massage results in a number of benefits. However, before undertaking an aromatherapy massage, it is also important to pay attention to contraindications for both massage and aromatherapy in relation to a number of health conditions.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils. Essential oils are distilled from plants, and it is the aromas of the plants which are used for therapeutic purposes in aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can be used in a number of ways, including lotions, oils, bubble bath and aromatic diffusers, but one of the most popular ways to use aromatherapy is with massage.
Massage
According to Patricia Davis, in her book "Aromatherapy An A -- Z," massage is one of the most effective ways of incorporating aromatherapy. Denise Whichello Brown, in "Teach Yourself Massage," states that massage is "the oldest form of medicine known to humans." Massage techniques vary widely, but aromatherapy massage is one of the most gentle forms of massage, as it needs to allow the body to absorb the benefits of the applied essential oils.
Benefits
Aromatherapy has an effect on both physical and mental health. In addition, massage benefits all systems of the body, according to Denise Whichello Brown. Therefore, the combination of massage and aromatherapy produces many positive effects. Jennie Harding, in her book "Aromatherapy Massage for You," states that aromatherapy massage improves circulation, is effective in lymph drainage, reduces anxiety and stress, eliminates toxins from the body and improves skin condition.
Cancer Treatment
Medscape.com cites the use of aromatherapy massage with cancer patients. Although aromatherapy massage does not cure cancer, it can be used as part of complimentary care to make cancer patients more comfortable, and has been proven through several studies to reduce anxiety in the short term; studies include a 1995 and a 2004 study cited by the National Library of Medicine.
Massage Warning
"Aromatherapy for Health Professionals" cautions against massage if you have an infection, heart disease, are taking certain medications, or have cuts, bruises, fractures and scar tissue. In addition, avoid alcohol and heavy meals before massage. Fever, migraine, varicose veins and osteoporosis are also contraindicated. Take professional advice for individual circumstances.
Aromatherapy Warning
Aromatherapy is not advised in cases of pregnancy, high blood pressure and epilepsy, depending on the type of essential oil used. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin. Drink plenty of fluids after an aromatherapy massage to allow the body to rid itself of toxins.
References
- "Aromatherapy An A -- Z"; Patricia Davis; 1999
- "Teach Yourself Massage"; Denise Whichello Brown; 1996
- "Aromatherapy Massage for You"; Jennie Harding; 2005
- "Aromatherapy for Health Professionals"; Shirley Price, Len Price; 2002
- Medscape Today: Anxiolytic Effect of Aromatherapy Massage in Patients with Breast Cancer
Member Comments