Many people develop problems in the neck due to the stress placed on it by carrying out day-to-day activities. The use of essential oils in aromatherapy, combined with massage of the neck, produces a number of benefits, including the relief of both stress and pain. Check with a professional if unsure about the feasibility of using aromatherapy for the neck, particularly if there are certain conditions present that may aggravate a problem.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Essential oils are extracted from various parts of a plant. Combine essential oils in a blend with a carrier oil or lotion, such as apricot kernel oil, before applying to the neck. Jennie Harding, in "Aromatherapy Massage for You," writes that the combination of aromatherapy and massage links touch and smell which are two of the most important sensory functions. Therefore the use of aromatherapy on the neck, together with massage, produces a number of benefits.
Neck Massage
According to Denise Whichello Brown, in "Teach Yourself Massage," the neck is susceptible to physical and emotional stress. Harding writes that the muscles in the neck continually work hard to support the head and are also abused through awkward postures and positions. Consequently, the neck becomes tired, stressed and sore which sometimes results in a headache, too.
A few simple techniques applied to various pressure points on the neck helps to relieve some of the stress and tension stored up in the neck. However, neck massage is more beneficial when it is combined with appropriate, therapeutic essential oils in an aromatherapy blend.
Essential Oils
There are a number of essential oils that can be used to massage the neck, depending on the problem. Analgesic essential oils, such as lavender, frankincense and chamomile, help to relief pain and muscle soreness in the neck. Essential oils, such as ginger, may chang and nutmeg, warm up muscles. Use rosemary, cypress or juniper essential oils to improve circulation in the neck. Rose, patchouli and neroli essential oils help to relieve stress and tension.
Benefits
Aromatherapy massage helps to relieve tension and stress in the neck, relieves muscle pain, eases headaches, reduces contraction of muscles in the neck and improves circulation. Shirley and Len Price, in "Aromatherapy for Health Professionals," write that aromatherapy works either through inhalation or through skin absorption in massage. According to Harding, the weight of the head accounts for 8 percent of total body weight and is fully supported by the neck. Therefore, aromatherapy massage to the neck benefits the body greatly.
Cautions
Do not carry out aromatherapy neck massage if you have neck injuries. In addition, if you have any discomfort or pain in the neck area don't practice neck massage. In some instances, aromatherapy neck massage may worsen a headache or migraine. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil or lotion before applying to the neck. Check for cautions in certain health conditions, such as pregnancy or high blood pressure, when using a particular essential oil. Some medications may also interact with essential oils.
References
- "Aromatherapy Massage for You;" Jennie Harding; 2005
- "Teach Yourself Massage;" Denise Whichello Brown; 1996
- "Aromatherapy for Health Professionals;" Shirley Price, Len Price; 2002
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