Massage has been used for thousands of years for healing the body and mind. Some cultures used massage for therapeutic purposes, while others recognized the relaxation benefits of massage. Aromatherapy has also been a part of massage practice for centuries, according to Mark Evans, author of "Yoga, Tai Chi, Massage, Therapies and Healing Remedies." The combination of aromatherapy and massage is thought by massage therapists, aromatherapists and other alternative healing practitioners to enhance the benefits of both disciplines. Aromatherapy massage is not meant to replace conventional medical therapy. Consult your doctor before beginning aromatherapy massage treatment.
Definition
Aromatherapy is an alternative healing practice that focuses on the use of essential oils derived from herbs and other plants, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. An essential oil is made from distilling herbs and plants into a concentrated liquid. The benefits of aromatherapy are primarily derived from the scents of these essential oils. Massage is the practice of manipulating muscle tissue to reduce stiffness, reduce muscle tension and release toxins from the muscle tissue, according to Evans. Aromatherapy massage involves the use of essential oils during massage to enhance the benefits of massage therapy.
History
References to aromatherapy massage appear in ancient Egyptian writings, and in the writings of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners dating back over 5,000 years, according to Evans. The ancient Romans also employed essential oils with massage techniques as part of their bathing practices. Aromatherapy massage was brought to Europe in the late 1700s by Per Henrik Ling, a Swede who documented massage practices in China.
Applications
There are two primary applications of aromatherapy in massage practice. The first is the addition of essential oils to carriers, usually almond or olive oils. The carrier oils are then used as skin lubricants during massage sessions. As a result, both the essential oils and carrier oils penetrate the skin, leaving a relaxing scent after the massage therapy session has ended. The second primary application is called ambient aromatherapy. According to Evans, ambient aromatherapy involves the release of essential oil scents into the air. The oils may be warmed with tea lights or included as an ingredient in incense sticks or cones.
Benefits
When used in massage the primary benefit of aromatherapy is relaxation. This allows the person receiving the massage to more thoroughly enjoy the experience. It may also help by allowing the muscles to relax, permitting the massage therapist to reach deeper muscle layers and break up deeply-held tension. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, essential oils used in massage therapy may also help relieve depression, when combined with other depression treatments such as medication and counseling. Some medical researchers believe that essential oils can help generate positive emotions by stimulating certain areas of the brain.
Risks
Although essential oils are generally considered safe when used in aromatherapy massage, some risks do exist. Cinnamon oil and other essential oils with high concentrations of phenol may cause skin irritation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Rosemary and spike lavender oils may raise blood pressure, so they should be avoided by people with hypertension. Although they are commonly warmed with tea lights in aromatherapy massage settings, essential oils are considered volatile, and should not be used near an open flame.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aromatherapy
- "Yoga, Tai Chi, Massage, Therapies and Healing Remedies"; Mark Evans, B Phil., FNIMH; 2003
Member Comments
AromaticMedic January 22
Actually QUALIFIED Aromatherapists are trained in Swedish AND Aromatherapy Massage, as there actually is a 'prescribed' body work therapy skilled sequence called 'AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE TECHNIQUE', this is passed down from Micheline Arcier. People need to understand that 'fake Aromatherapy Massage' is what they get 99% of the time from only Swedish or Remedial trained Massage therapists. Qualified Aromatherapists are trained in Aromatic Chemistry, Beauty, Symptomatology & Diagnosis, Anatomy & Physiology, Botany and Clinical applications, as well as Remedial, AromaMassage, Swedish and Reflexology.
For proper 'True Aromatherapy' and 'Aromatherapy Massage' please only see a Qualified Aromatherapist.