Aromatherapists use herb-filled packs to help relieve sore muscles and promote relaxation. They are made from a variety of fabrics to suit individual styles and then heated in the microwave for one to two minutes. They are mainly filled with rice or salt, which holds the heat, along with certain dried herbs or herbal essential oils believed to have therapeutic benefits. Although generally considered safe for external use, always check with your health care provider before trying herbal remedies.
Lavender and Rosemary
Lavender and rosemary are used in aromatherapy to help soothe and relax tired muscles. The Guide to Aromatherapy website explains that lavender relaxes, soothes, restores and balances your body and mind. The website claims that lavender is one of the most versatile and useful essential oils available. Rosemary complements lavender by refreshing tired muscles and combating fatigue. You can mix dried lavender flowers and rosemary leaves with rice or salt and add them in a heat pack, or simply drop two to three drops of each essential oil on a pack before heating. Place the pack over your eyes or on the back of the neck for relaxation. Get medical clearance before using lavender and rosemary to ensure your safety.
Eucalyptus and Juniper Berry
The herbs eucalyptus and juniper berry are widely used during cold and flu season. They are both considered antiseptic and cleansing. Herbalists use eucalyptus to help relieve respiratory and sinus congestion. Juniper is used externally to relieve pain. Together they may help relieve sinus and tension headaches. Dried eucalyptus leaves and juniper berries may be mixed with rice or salt to include in a heat pack, or drop two to three drops of each essential oil on a pack before heating. The pack can then be applied to the forehead or back of the neck for relief. Check with your doctor before using eucalyptus and juniper berry to treat any condition.
Bergamot and German Chamomile
Bergamot is a flowering citrus plant, and chamomile is a small flowering herb in the chrysanthemum family. Both are considered therapeutic for the mind and body. Bergamot is described as uplifting and good for building confidence by The Guide to Aromatherapy website. Add German chamomile to herbal blends for its relaxing effects. Mix the dried flowers of bergamot and chamomile with rice or salt in the heat pack, or add two to three drops of each essential oil on a pack before heating. Use it over the eyes or on the forehead during relaxation. Get your doctor's OK before using bergamot and chamomile to self-treat any condition.
Jasmine and Lemongrass
Jasmine and lemongrass are highly fragrant herbs used in aromatherapy. Jasmine is a common flowering shrub whose essential oils are used to alleviate stress and anxiety. Lemongrass is not a citrus plant, but a grass native to Thailand, which has a sweet, lemony scent. It is mild and calming, and used in blends to complement the fragrance of other herbs. Again, mix the dried flowers and leaves with rice or salt in a heat pack, or add two to three drops of each essential oil on the pack before heating. Place the pack where desired. Speak to your doctor before using any herbal treatment.
Ginger and Cinnamon
Ginger and cinnamon are culinary spices with distinct fragrances and tastes. Aromatherapists use ginger and ginger essential oil to relieve cold and flu symptoms such as nausea and sore, achy muscles. Cinnamon has a warming effect and is considered stimulating. You can mix ground ginger and cinnamon with the rice or salt in a heat pack, or add two to three drops of the essential oils to a pack before heating. Apply this pack to sore muscles along the back, neck and shoulders. Ask your doctor if ginger and cinnamon is suitable for you.
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