For hundreds of years, humans have turned to massage as an alternative to prescription painkillers and medications. A good massage can relieve pain, reduce stress, and just generally make us feel better.
Choosing the right massage oil is an essential part of having a great experience. Different oils have different benefits, and of course, different scents. You may have heard of some as they’re widely used, but there are some great lesser-known options, too.
Don’t forget to mix any essential oil you use with carrier oil before applying, as oils can be very concentrated and can even burn the skin. Carrier oils are readily available online. Ask Viga massage services for more advice and information if you need it.
Mandarin
Mandarin, and other citrus-based essential oils, is an unusual but fantastic choice as the smell can be invigorating – helping the person receiving the massage to feel more alert mentally even as their muscles relax. This makes it a really great option for people who are consistently or chronically tired. We also associate fresh, citrus scents with mornings or breakfast, tricking the mind into thinking it has just woken up and offering a delicious shot of energy and boosting the mood.
You can also blend mandarin oil with other oils to increase its benefits without losing that fresh, beautiful scent.
Lavender
One of the best-known and most popular massage oils, lavender is an easy choice if you’re just starting as it’s incredibly easy to find.
Lavender oil moisturizes the skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple, while the scent relaxes the person receiving a massage.
Lavender is also used to boost the hair, as it’s thought to help speed up the growth process when massaged into the scalp and roots. Some people add it to their temples, or even to a room diffuser, as it can aid in the relief of tension headache.
Angelica
Known in some parts of the world as the ‘oil of angels,’ angelica is the perfect oil to soothe and relax both the body and the mind. It calms anxiety, gives us a boost of happiness, and can also help us get a good night’s sleep. In the past, it was also used as a digestive aid and stimulant, but nowadays, taking essential oils orally isn’t generally recommended.
Sandalwood
Earthy and (unsurprisingly) woody, sandalwood essential oil provides a soothing, natural vibe. It’s also associated with several benefits, such as a treatment for several skin conditions, including eczema. It’s also believed to improve focus and mental clarity.
Coriander
Coming from the cilantro plant, coriander essential oils are warm, relaxing, and soothing. As well as providing a beautiful massage experience, coriander also benefits the digestive and circulatory systems, making it a perfect pick for anyone experiencing problems in those areas.
Hinoki
Distilled from a tree native to Japan, Hinoki essential oil has a fresh lemony scent and is thought to open the mind to new ideas and perspectives. Use this in a massage for a comforting and uplifting experience.
