Aromatherapy is a form of medication synthesized from plants and other aromatic compounds for the purpose of altering or regulating a person’s mind (mood, cognitive function or health).

Inhaling certain essential oil molecules, transmit messages to the limbic system which can be used to influence the heart rate, blood pressure, stress levels digestion and even memory and a person’s breathing. Combined with massage therapy, aromatherapy can be used to aid the immune system.

Essential oils are the base of aromatherapy and can be absorbed through the skin. Each type of oil has its characteristic effect on the mind and body. They are highly concentrated and can be mixed together to archive certain results. The blend is called a synergy and is more potent than individual oil.

Aromatherapy helps relieve stress and stress-related conditions such as headaches, digestive disorders, Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), back ache and to cure insomnia. Traditional medical practitioners sometimes recommend aromatherapy for acute and chronic conditions and pain.

Aromatherapy massage significantly improves the state of well being in people with lymph-edema. It is important that every aromatherapy session begin with a consultation, which would help the therapist select the right essential oils for the massage.

There are different types of aromatherapy oils each having a different function and characteristic.
The essential oil is one of the popular aromatherapy oils in use and is synthesized from plants through steam distillation. Not all essential oils are medicinal as there are some that are harmful and should not be used.

Absolutes are a concentrated form of aromatherapy oil. The absolutes are characterized by the method of extraction from plants. The absolutes are synthesized chemically from plants, and contain solvents that make them thick and concentrated.

Oils that are heated in carrier oils are called infused oils. This is a good way to use the aromatherapy properties of a certain herb without extracting the oil. Infused oils can also be carrier oils.

Carrier oils are used as the foundation or base oils, oils such as jojoba or almond oil or normally mixed with essential oils. The main advantage of carrier oil is that it prevents skin irritation without reducing the benefit of the essential oil.

When mixing essential oils with massage therapy, it is important to note that massages are not recommended for persons with infectious skin diseases, rash or open wounds. Also, massage therapy should not be administered immediately after a surgery, immediately after chemotherapy or radiation unless recommended by a doctor.

If a client is prone to blood clots or has a heart disease, a doctor’s recommendation would be needed before a massage can be administered to that client. Although massage with essential oils brings a great deal of relief to pregnant women, it is advised that they get a go-ahead from their practitioner before embarking on a massage.

The use of essential oils in massage therapy brings a soothing relief to the client and produces a feeling of calmness and rest in both the client and the specialist. It is useful for enhancing mental health and psychological wellbeing and promotes spiritual wellness.

Author Bio: I write for TIR Massage Stone, the leading hot stones for massage supplies provider. They carry products such as stone massage, as well as many other accessories for hot and cold stone therapy.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: hot stone massage,spa,stone therapy,massage stones,essential oils,aromatherapy