Essential oils for massage offer numerous benefits to our bodies. They can be used topically to moisturize the skin and facilitate the massage, or in other applications, such as using them in an oil burner to enjoy their fragrances in aromatherapy, promoting effective relaxation. This guide will explore the most common properties of essential oils used in massage, as well as those most recommended by experts for different situations.
What are essential oils?
When we talk about natural oils or essential oils, we are referring to a type of liquid obtained through the extraction and concentration of different flowers, roots, barks, leaves, herbs, or fruits. Through distillation, the resulting oil retains all the beneficial characteristics of these elements in a smaller container.
You can find many kinds of essential oils , from those that are pressed to extract all their benefits to others that must go through a series of steps to obtain the concentrated liquid we are looking for. Ultimately, these products offer a range of benefits depending on their preparation, because, as you can imagine, the higher the concentration of the oil, the greater its properties. Some, especially those of lower quality, contain additives such as alcohol, water, and other substances that reduce their quality.
Characteristics of essential oils for massage
One of the main characteristics of essential oils for massage, compared to more conventional oils, is precisely—and this is worth repeating—their oily texture. This texture enhances massage techniques by hydrating the skin while remaining on the surface for longer, making the massage much easier and more direct. In many products, especially those intended for oil burners or those of lower quality, this property is much less pronounced, or they don't even produce that oily sensation when applied to the skin. This means that more oil must be used, and the benefits are not as potent as those of the original product.
The highest quality essential oils use a base oil, which is usually olive oil, as it has been scientifically proven to be one of the most beneficial for the skin, not only hydrating it, but also nourishing it with a multitude of vitamins and minerals that are absorbed by the dermis for an improvement in the body.
What properties do essential oils for massage have and how are they used?
One of the advantages of high-quality essential oils for massage is the wide variety available. These days, you'll find oils with a broad range of therapeutic properties, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. For example, you can easily find oils on the market that help boost concentration . When you use them, thanks to their aromas and the vitamins and minerals they contain, which are absorbed through the skin, you'll notice within minutes that your focus on studying or work is improved. This means you can be much more productive and accomplish more in less time—something you'll eventually master and refine, leading to a greater sense of well-being.
But there are also essential oils that possess properties capable of healing the mind and alleviating negative moods such as depression, stress, or anxiety. While it's true that these problems require other treatments or therapies administered by professionals, the relaxation provided by oil massages in both body and mind can alleviate stress and anxiety, thus reducing the symptoms caused by these psychological ailments more quickly. Furthermore, it is also highly beneficial for physical problems.
In the realm of properties for preventing and reducing illnesses or pain, we find many essential oils that, when applied directly to the affected area, can drastically reduce the pain we feel. This is highly recommended, for example, when we have muscle strain or even when our back prevents us from sleeping properly due to a muscle spasm. The oils can help penetrate the muscle fibers more effectively, softening the tissue, releasing tension, and thus making the person feel better both physically and mentally. Often, physical problems end up affecting our way of thinking and can lead to feelings of stress or overwhelm stemming from these ailments.
For proper application, it is recommended that a professional massage therapist perform the massage. In addition to using a good essential oil, it is advisable to employ various techniques that will help eliminate muscle tension and relax the body—something not everyone knows how to do. However, if hiring a specialist is not possible, you can pour a small amount of essential oil into your hands and rub them together briefly to warm the oil and activate its properties. This also makes the contact less harsh than if the oil were applied cold. Once your hands are well coated, massage the entire area, not just the exact spot that hurts, but also the surrounding areas. This will improve the entire area and prevent the pain from spreading. It is also important to allow yourself enough time for the massage, as otherwise the essential oils will not be absorbed effectively.