
Massage with essential oils
Essential oils for massage make the treatment even more relaxing. Furthermore, the use of oils in massage enhances its healing effects. The choice of essential oil for massage depends on the effect we want to achieve, because the products from which they are made affect our body in different ways.
Are essential oils healthy?
Essential oils have a positive effect on the human body. This makes them a popular aid in alleviating unpleasant symptoms. The effects of an essential oil depend on its type. Not all essential oils have the same effect on our health, so it's worth familiarizing yourself with the effects of individual products.
Essential oils for massage – which ones to choose?
For essential oil massage, we can use ready-made blends or semi-finished products from which we will create our own oil. Massage oil consists of a carrier oil and an aromatherapy oil, which must be diluted.
Essential oil massage - carrier oil
A carrier oil is a high-quality vegetable oil in which other oils used for massage are dissolved. Another vegetable oil or essential oil can be added to the carrier oil. This allows a small amount of essential oil to be distributed over a large area of the body. What types of carrier oils do we distinguish?
- Sweet almond oil – rich in proteins and vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and DSuitable for dry and mature skin, as it contains oleic and linoleic fatty acids, which inhibit water loss from the epidermis and regulate the function of the sebaceous glands.
- Avocado oil – contains vitamins A, B and D, which inhibit the signs of aging. It's highly moisturizing, nourishing the skin and preventing it from drying out. Recommended for dry and aging skin.
- Jojoba oil – is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins E and F and phytosterols. Suitable for all skin types, it has nourishing, softening, and moisturizing properties.
- Grape seed oil – is extremely rich (approx. 90%) in polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, flavonoids, minerals, lecithin and vitamins A and B6. It absorbs easily and does not leave the skin greasy.
- Argan oil – contains significant amounts of vitamin E. Rich in unsaturated fatty acids (approximately 80%), such as linoleic and oleic acid, argan oil is ideal for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin.
See also: Which massage oil should I choose?
How to make your own essential massage oils?
You can make your own essential oils for massage. You'll need a carrier oil and an essential oil. How to make your own essential oil massage oil? Add 2-5 drops of essential oil to 10 ml (1 tablespoon) of carrier oil. This amount should be enough for one massage of the selected body part. For a full-body massage, mix 6 drops of essential oil with 4 tablespoons of carrier oil. You can store your homemade massage oil in a dark bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Massage with essential oils – which oil to choose?
Choosing an essential oil for massage depends on individual preferences. However, it's important to match it to the needs of your body and skin. Which essential oil should you choose for massage?
- Oil for stress and constant fatigue – rose, lemon balm, bergamot and neroli.
- Oil for skin discoloration – lemon and lavender.
- Oil for cellulite and stretch marks – cypress, patchouli and geranium.
- Oil to improve your mood – patchouli and geranium.
- Oil for insomnia – lavender, lemon balm, marjoram and rose.
- Immunity oil – clove, lemon and rosemary.
- Oil for apathy and lethargy – rosemary, clove and thyme.
Essential oils for facial massage:
- Oily and acne-prone skin – lemon, lavender and tea tree oil.
- Dry and delicate skin – chamomile and tea tree oil.
- Mature and wrinkled skin – mandarin, patchouli, cypress, lavender and rose oil.
See also: Coconut oil for massage – how does it affect our body?