3 Benefits of Using Essential Oils During Your Massage

*Please be advised. Always be sure to dilute your essential oils and mix them with a carrier oil so that they do not burn or irritate your skin. Certain oils are not to be used topically, always research your specific oil’s properties to ensure proper usage.

Essential oils hold chemical components that make them useful for so many amazing things. Among some of the few are the incredible ability to relieve headaches, improve sleep, kill bacteria/fungi, and help relieve nausea. But today we’re going to dive into 3 specific benefits of using essential oils during your massage!

Reduce anxiety and headaches: There really are so many amazing scents that smell amazing to different people so your preference really matters here, but the science behind aromatherapy and topical essential oils. “Aromatherapy is thought to work by stimulating smell receptors in the nose, which then send messages through the nervous system to the limbic system — the part of the brain that controls emotions,” according to the Mayo Clinic. Essential oils that help reduce anxiety include lavender, orange, chamomile, and clary sage. Your massage therapist will be happy to mix up a topical blend of scents you love to help relieve anxiety. 

Reduce inflammation: All massage helps move your lymphatic system-your body’s drainage system-which has to be manually circulated in order to move white blood cell waist and inflammation from your body. There are certain essential oils that can assist in stimulating your lymphatic system. My very favorites are great for joint inflammation as well! Check out frankincense, turmeric, ginger, peppermint, and eucalyptus for their amazing anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Boost Mood: Aromatherapy benefits don’t stop with anxiety and headache relief, they can help boost mood and invigorate as well! Scents such as peppermint, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, and basil have been shown to really help improve energy and mood! One of my favorite mixes is ylang-ylang, sandalwood, and cedarwood mixed together with a little sweet almond oil. I keep a roller on me and when my morning coffee starts to wear off I roll a little under my nose and let the aromatherapy work its energetic magic! 

There you have it, friends! There are so many amazing uses of essential oils both in your massage session and out in the wild! Stay zen out there and practice little moments of self-care. Essential oils are a great tool in your massage toolbox!