What are essential oils and how do you use them in massage?

 



What are essential oils and how do you use them in massage?

Essential oils are compounds which are extracted from flowers and plants through distillation or other methods such as cold pressing .Each oil is chosen specifically due to the therapeutic benefits they provide which include providing natural pain relief,encouraging relaxation,improving sleep, boosting immunity and decreasing Stress and Anxiety.
Essential oils are separated into 5 main groups based on their scent( floral,citrus,spicy,woody or herbal) ,evaporation rate and their therapeutic properties (calming or energising).
How to mix an essential oil with a carrier oil for massage
Blends can vary depending on smell and preference but as a guide between 2- 5 drops of essential oil with 10 ml of base oil or 20-50 drops of essential.oil for 100 ml of base oil.
These measurements should be halved for children, pregnancy or for those with sensitive skin. Never apply the essential oils directly to the skin without first mixing with a base oil unless stated otherwise .
Some essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin are :
Lavender (good for encouraging sleep and relaxation)
Tea tree (good for athletes foot, insect bites, lice, nail fungus and acne)
Roman Chamomile (good for taming hair and soothing skin, hay fever, stress, eczema, Anxiety and Insomnia)
Sandalwood (good for relaxation, improving digestion and skin irritations).

Elizabeth Lock      Holistic Therapist 
www.yourcuddletherapy.co.uk   heal@yourcuddletherapy.co.ukwww.yourinnerglow.co.uk         heal@yourinnerglow.co.ukwww.yourtantrictouch.co.uk      heal@yourtantrictouch.co.uk

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