Massage relieves muscle tension and eases away anxiety and stress. The physical pressure of hands moving over skin in therapeutic massage action can improve circulation, increase lymphatic function and alleviate pain by releasing endorphins that help soothe the central nervous system. Massage can also be a valuable beauty tool, encouraging blood flow for healthy skin and hair. The best massage oils enhance the beneficial effects of massage, adding nourishing protection to the skin.
Sesame Oil
Natural sesame oil is the best massage oil for infant massage, reports the Franklin Institute, citing a study by Dr. K.N. Agarwal of the University College of Medical Science in Delhi, India. Agarwal's study determined that sesame massage oil is easily absorbed by the skin and, of numerous types of massage oils tested on infant subjects, caused the most beneficial growth and blood flow effects. Yoga instructor and Ayurvedic practitioner Shreelata Suresh, writing for Boloji, an Indian news and lifestyle magazine, advises using sesame-based massage oil for scalp massage for people who are Vata-predominant--that is, for those with thin dry hair and split ends. A warm sesame-oil scalp massage, writes Suresh, will strengthen hair roots and improve scalp health.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil provides a smooth gliding sensation for massage, but is rich in antioxidants that also nourish the skin, according to independent product reviewer Jamaise Wilson, reviewing Tropical Traditions, a line of organic coconut oil based massage oils. After testing the Tropical Traditions products courtesy of her massage-therapist sister, reviewer Wilson recommends their Arnica Massage Oil, which combines a coconut oil base with jojoba oil, arnica, wintergreen, peppermint, spruce and other healing essential oils. Independent product reviewer Jeanie Huston preferred the Tropical Traditions Lavender Massage Oil, noting that the smell and texture are amazing and it leaves skin soft but not oily.
Coconut oil is an ideal choice for scalp and skin massage for Pitta-dominant people--those with thinning, gray hair--according to Shreelata Suresh, as its cooling properties help retard premature graying and hair loss.
Jojoba Oil
Native Americans have been extracting oil from the seeds of the jojoba, or Simmodsia chinensis, shrub in the southwestern United States for centuries and using the oil to heal wounds and other skin problems. According to independent product review site Galt, jojoba oil is not only a great base for a massage oil, but it also cleans pores, removes makeup and treats blemishes such as acne. Galt advises that the most popular massage oil with consumers is Desert Essence Jojoba Oil, a pure extract from organically grown jojoba plants. Consumers can also save money and simplify their beauty regimen by using jojoba oil as an aftershave, a hair conditioner and an all-purpose moisturizer.
References
- Jeanie Huston, Mommy Blessings in Small Bundles: Tropical Traditions Massage Oil Review and Giveaway
- Galt Buying Guide: Best Massage Oils
- Franklin Institute: The Human Brain--Relieve Stress
- Boloji.com: Hair and Scalp Massage, The Ayurvedic Secret for Gorgeous Hair
- Jamaise Wilson, Wishing Penny: Tropical Traditions
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