What is aromatherapy massage?
An aromatherapy massage incorporates essential oils into the process, usually by diffusing them in the room and adding them to a carrier oil for the massage. Aromatherapy can be incorporated into different types of massage, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, and Indian head massage.
Aromatherapy massage is often used for relaxation. You can choose different essential oils based on your preferences, such as scents you find calming or uplifting. Research into the specific health effects of essential oils is still developing.
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a holistic therapy that uses essential oils (made from plant extracts) that are thought to have certain properties and benefits. You can inhale essential oils or apply them to the skin after diluting them in a carrier oil.
Common essential oils used in aromatherapy include lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus, peppermint, lemon, jasmine, ylang-ylang, and geranium. You may choose different scents based on your preferences and what you find relaxing or uplifting. Your massage therapist may have a range of oils and may suggest a blend based on your preferences.
Benefits of aromatherapy massage
People may choose aromatherapy massage for a number of reasons, including relaxation and easing feelings of physical tension.
Stress and relaxation
Massage and aromatherapy are often used to support relaxation, and some people find them helpful for winding down. Research has explored whether aromatherapy massage may also help with stress and anxiety, but evidence for specific health benefits remains limited.
Pain and physical tension
Massage may help some people feel more comfortable and ease muscle tension. If you're experiencing ongoing or unexplained pain, speak to an appropriate healthcare professional rather than relying on massage to treat the underlying cause.
Sleep and winding down
Some people find massage relaxing, which may make it easier to wind down before sleep.
Is aromatherapy massage safe?
Aromatherapy massage is generally considered safe for many people, but essential oils can sometimes cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Let your therapist know about any allergies, sensitivities or health conditions before your session.
If you're pregnant, tell your therapist before treatment, as not all complementary therapies or essential oils are suitable during pregnancy. Speak to your midwife, doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure whether aromatherapy is appropriate for you. Find out more about pregnancy massage.
What happens during an aromatherapy massage?
You’ll usually start with a consultation to discuss your medical history and what you hope to gain from the session. During this consultation, you can discuss any allergies or conditions, as well as your scent preferences.
Your massage therapist may suggest a blend of essential oils based on your preferences and the treatment being offered. The massage itself depends on the type of massage you’re having, but if you're having a Swedish massage, the therapist may use light to medium pressure, focusing on areas of tension.
During the massage, you may begin to feel more relaxed. If you experience any discomfort, let your massage therapist know so they can adjust the pressure.
Once the massage is finished, you can get dressed. You may notice some residual oil on your skin, so you may prefer to wear clothes that are easy to wash. You can wash off any remaining oil afterwards if you wish.
Find an aromatherapy massage therapist near you
If you’re interested in trying aromatherapy massage, finding a therapist you feel comfortable with can help you get the most from your session. Before booking, you may want to ask about their experience with aromatherapy massage, the essential oils they use and whether they can adapt the treatment to your preferences.
When you’re ready, use our search tool to find an aromatherapy massage therapist.
Disclaimer: At Therapy Directory, we verify that massage practitioners have qualifications and insurance, or membership of a professional body, associated with massage only. We encourage you to check that they have the specialised skills required to offer aromatherapy massage specifically.
