What are the best essential oils for aromatherapy massage?

Body massages are beneficial, but when combined with the properties of essential oils, their effects can be truly multiplied and pleasure can be combined with well-being, relaxation and health. Here are some ideas for everyday use.

AFTER SPORT

Sports massage mobilises muscles deep down to speed recovery from exertion. It prevents or chases away the aching that occurs when lactic acid accumulates in the muscles.

The essential oil par excellence: Wintergreen

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic, it fosters muscular recovery and eliminates lactic acid. It can also be diluted in calophyllum plant oil, particularly recommended for its painkilling properties and ability to prevent muscle spasms.

TO RELAX AND ENJOY A GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP

Massage relaxes and restores suppleness to the body. It chases away physical and nervous tension and creates a ritual that helps people fall sleep, as though it were a (very useful) decompression chamber between being awake and “night mode”.

The essential oil par excellence: True lavender

Wonderfully fragrant, but above all relaxing, calming and sedative, it is vital to relaxation. It can even be used on children under 7. It can be improved with a touch of another relaxing essential oil (Roman chamomile, incense, geranium, marjoram, petitgrain bigarade, green mandarin, lemongrass, etc.).

MASSAGE FOR LOVERS

One of the preferred forms of foreplay for couples, massage relaxes... and its lingering caresses awaken the senses. Fingers that skim over the skin, tender caresses pressing into the skin at varying degrees, trigger the release of endorphins (feel-good molecules), encouraging closeness, intimacy, and sexual desire.

The essential oil par excellence: Ylang-ylang

It is used for its aphrodisiac and relaxing properties. Its fragrances are both exotic and erotic – a touch of ginger can be added (as a physical and sexual stimulant) as can Asian rosewood (for its harmonising properties).

WHAT IS THE RIGHT DOSAGE FOR AN AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE?

For an adult, it is usually 6 to 10 drops of essential oil, mixed with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Use plants and Essential Oils with care.

Before any use, read the information and precautions for use carefully.

Extract from 48 essential oils which every home needs to be healthy, practical guide by Top Santé.