Body massages relax muscles and tissues to help you unwind by rejuvenating your body and mind. Massage oil is helpful due to its healing and lubricating properties which make the manipulation, rubbing, and kneading of muscles much easier. The right oil helps to hydrate and nourish the skin to keep it glowing and soft. Here are 5 types of therapeutic oils used in Asian massages:
1. Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil is extracted from the stalks and leaves of the lemon grass plant. The oil has a citrus scent and can help to relieve depression, anxiety, and stress. Lemongrass oil has antidepressant, antiseptic, and antimicrobial properties to protect the recipient from fungal and bacterial infections. When used during an Asian massage, the recipient’s skin may feel softer and smoother.
The aroma in the oil also helps to soothe the nerves. Using lemongrass oil during a massage can also be effective for those recovering from a sprain, chronic headaches, joint stiffness, joint pains, stress, and trauma. On the skin, it helps to clear up excess oils, reduce wrinkles, and remove dead skin, protecting the skin from damage.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has capric and lauric acids. These acids have antimicrobial agents that effectively treat fungal, viral, or bacterial infections. Using coconut oil during a massage helps the skin to get rid of harmful fungi and bacteria that breed on it. The oil also has Vitamin E, which helps to nourish the skin making it look healthy and soft.
As people age, the skin loses its elasticity and shows wrinkles, sagging, and fine lines. Coconut oil contains anti-aging properties and helps to boost collagen production and regenerate skin cells. After strenuous exercise or physical activity, a massage with coconut oil can help relax tight muscles.
3. Olive Oil
Olive oil is ideal for lighter massages like a Swedish massage. The oil is heavy and gets absorbed into the skin slower. That’s why olive oil is mainly used to do massages that require sweeping your body and using repetitive movements. When massaged correctly, the oil may help reduce oxidative stress, which helps to repair skin damage. A deep friction massage using olive oil alleviates muscle pain and reduces muscle fatigue. The oil helps to remove lactic acid faster and improves blood flow to exhausted muscles.
4. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is removed from the flowers of the lavender herb through steam distillation. The oil has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antidepressant properties. Lavender’s analgesic properties help with joint and muscle pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties promote healing and reduce inflammation.
The antioxidant and antimicrobial properties help to soothe irritation and improve skin health. The flora and fresh aroma of lavender oil can help one relax and calm restless minds during a massage. This oil has a soothing scent that may help to reduce nervous tension, stress, and anxiety. It also helps improve sleep quality making it an ideal choice for a massage if you have insomnia.
5. Jasmine Oil
Jasmine oil is derived from the flowers of the Jasmine plant and is packed with great healing benefits. It is a natural essential oil that helps with skin health and contains anti-inflammatory properties. The therapeutic oil can be used in Asian massages wherever there is sensitivity, redness, inflammation, or itching.
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Jasmine has a delicate scent and is very moisturizing, making it a welcome addition to a massage routine. Incorporating jasmine oil into a massage after a long tiresome day can leave you feeling more calm and relaxed.
Find a Reliable Asian Massage Spa
Choose an Asian massage spa that uses effective types of therapeutic oils to leave you feeling rested, balanced, and rejuvenated. The masseuses should have deep knowledge of various wellness practices and massage techniques. The spa should tailor each appointment to match the needs of each client.
