Overview
Aromatherapy massage incorporates essential oils from plants with proven massage techniques. When you inhale the essential oil molecules, they activate the limbic system and affect breathing, memory and other body functions. The University of California San Diego reports that some doctors believe the benefits of aromatherapy come from an emotional response to specific scents, rather than any changes in body function.
History
French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse developed the science of aromatherapy after he applied lavender oil to a burn on his skin. After seeing the positive effects of the lavender oil, he started working with essential oils to determine their use in treating skin infections, burns and wounds. Massage therapists began using aromatherapy in the 1950s, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Types
Aromatherapy massage therapists use several types of essential oils based on the desired effects of each massage session. Lavender promotes relaxation and improves mood in some people. This essential oil also improves sleep quality. Wardenburg Health Center at the University of Colorado reports that peppermint oil relieves mental fatigue, improves mood, encourages communication, improves alertness and has a refreshing effect. Other essential oils used in aromatherapy massage include chamomile, lemon and rosemary.
Benefits
Aromatherapy massage eases tension, reduces pain and calms anxiety. This type of massage also has an effect on blood pressure levels. A study published in a 2000 issue of “Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies” indicated that massage therapy reduces stress hormones, resulting in decreased blood pressure levels. Led by Dr. Maria Hernandez-Reif, this study investigated the effects of massage on adults with hypertension. Each participant received 10 massage sessions during the study. Each massage lasted 30 minutes. Participants in the massage therapy group reported less anxiety, hostility and depression than they had before the massages and had reduced levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, in the urine and saliva. Aromatherapy massage also shows promise in alleviating the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia and other conditions that result in chronic pain.
Considerations
Choosing the right aromatherapy massage therapist can affect the success of the treatment. Select a therapist who has received training from an accredited college that offers courses in massage therapy and aromatherapy. Ask each potential massage therapist about her professional experience. After selecting a therapist, maintain open lines of communication with her. If you want the therapist to use a different essential oil or change the way she massages your body, let her know. If the therapist refuses to do so, find a new therapist.
Warning
Some people should not receive aromatherapy massage services. Those with a contagious skin condition should avoid aromatherapy massage until the infection completely heals. This prevents spread of the infection and gives the infected area time to heal properly. People with blood clots in the legs, vein infections and bleeding disorders should also avoid aromatherapy massage. Discuss medications and medical history with a physician before scheduling an appointment for an aromatherapy massage session.
