Aromatherapy. It adds beneficial effects to massage. What is it and what is it for?

What is Aromatherapy, what is it for and how does it work?

Aromatherapy is a therapy through aromas. It uses essential oils (the aromatic part of the plant) extracted from whole plants, leaves, stems, roots, flowers and resins of trees and plants that work on the physical, mental and emotional aspects of people and animals. There are different methods to obtain the essential oil, which is the aromatic part of the plant, among the most used we have:

Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years and has given good results. Especially in massage, a few drops are added to the base oil. Depending on the essence used, different effects are achieved. In general the essences I use in my practice are wintergreen, rosemary and sage. Thanks to this combination aromatherapy works on a deep muscular level and also on a mental level so that the person relaxes and thus in one session achieves the maximum possible result.

Main essences of Aromatherapy

Main essences of Aromatherapy
Rosemary:

It is useful for relieving muscular pain and joint pain. It also slows down skin ageing, promotes memory and concentration. At the same time it stimulates the gall bladder. It relieves coughs, colds and flus by helping to expel accumulated mucus from the respiratory tract. Rosemary essential oil stimulates blood circulation and helps to regulate menstruation. On the other hand, it favours the proper functioning of the digestive system and helps to regulate fats.

It is used to combat fluid retention. It combats drowsiness thanks to its stimulating effect. It improves irritated and sensitive skin, eczema and dermatitis and helps to mitigate acne. Rosemary essential oil improves the symptoms of rheumatism and gout. It accelerates wound healing. Finally, it fortifies the scalp, is a natural remedy to combat dandruff and stimulates hair growth.

Rosemary essential oil is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Wintergreen:

The chemotyped essential oils of wintergreen olorosa relieve muscle pain associated with physical exhaustion, back pain, arthritis and any musculoskeletal problems. It helps to relax muscles and decreases inflammation of joints and tendons.

Sage:

has anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it is recommended in cases of illnesses such as rheumatism, arthritis, as well as to relieve muscular pain. It also acts as a muscle relaxant. For this reason, some sportsmen and women turn to sage when their muscles are sore due to a bad movement or overexertion.

If you are allergic to any scent or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, the use of aromatherapy essences in massage is contraindicated.