Many varieties of "alternative" medicine---such as acupuncture, massage, aromatherapy and healing energy work---have become popular in recent decades. Swedish massage, particularly, has gained a strong following in "mainstream" western medicine. Aromatherapy, while popular, does not have the documented effectiveness of massage. The consensus seems to be that aromatherapy probably won't hurt, but it's uncertain whether it will help.
Benefits of Swedish Massage
Swedish aromatherapy combines the documented benefits of massage with the largely theoretical healing properties of essential oils.
Swedish massage is a popular type of body work that employs long hand strokes, deep circular motion of the hands, kneading, tapping, vibration and myofascial release techniques. In the last of these, the massage therapist pushes gently on pain coordinates which causes tight muscles to relax.
A study published in 2001 in Archives of Internal Medicine that compared back pain relief of massage with acupuncture or self-care found massage the most effective means of treatment.
Perceived Benefits of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy employs essential oils of plants to stimulate the olfactory nerves that correspond with different areas of the brain---especially the amygdala and hippocampus, associated with the emotions.
Essential oils can be sniffed, put in the bathwater, or used with massage oil in diluted strengths. Some of these oils are toxic in high concentrations and need to be diluted. They are extracted from roots, flowers, leaves, resin or bark of some plants.
Popular essential oils are juniper berry, anise, cinnamon, patchouli, grapefruit, eucalyptus and sandalwood. Although there is not much scientific evidence to support the claim, proponents of aromatherapy say it has a soothing, calming effect.
A Few Cautionary Words
Although Swedish, as well as other types, of massage is generally safe and efficacious, if you have blood clots, rheumatoid arthritis, open wounds, cancer, broken bones, temporary paralysis, internal bleeding or nerve damage, you should check with your physician before getting Swedish aromatherapy.
You should never consume essential oils orally or allow them to enter your body in any way, because of the risk of unwanted side effects. Essential oils should never be applied undiluted to your skin, except for occasional use of lavender and tee tree oils.
Pregnant women, people with high blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis and epilepsy should avoid aromatherapy altogether.
Licensing of Therapists
In most states, massage therapists must be certified as skilled and licensed as a health-care practitioner to operate. It's OK to ask questions of your therapist about training, experience and licensing.
There are no licensing requirements for aromatherapists; anyone may call themselves an aromatherapist. You can also purchase essential oils and use them according to their labels.
Combination of Therapies
The benefits of Swedish massage for relaxation, stress reduction and healing of sore muscles are well-documented. Massage is accepted in a wide range of traditional medical settings. Even if the benefits of aromatherapy are just a result of the placebo effect (getting relief because of anticipating it), the combination of the two therapies can be effective in pain control.
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