Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage

In todays modern world, we are seeing and increased focus on mental health and well being, as such we are now becoming more aware of the need for self-care and holistic treatments, such as aromatherapy massage. Every year, the essential oils global market continues to grow, with more and more people opting for more organic, natural and plant based remedies than ever before and this growth isnt going to slow down any time soon. As our as our lives become increasingly busier and continuously more stressful, more and more people are seeking ways to combat this. Mental health problems are one of the main causes of the overall disease burden worldwide

According to the Mental Health Foundation. In England, it is estimated that 1 in 6 people in the past week have experienced a common mental health problem (such as anxiety, depression and stress). In 2015, mental health-related issues were found to lead to approximately 17.6 million days of sick leave or 12.7% of the total sick days taken in the UK.

It has been estimated that the cost to the UK GDP of workers either leaving the workforce entirely or going part-time in order to care for someone with a mental health problem was £5.4 billion in 2015, with over 91% of this amount being due to those leaving the labour force entirely.

That why Rhonda Large Holistic's provides complementary therapy, alongside advising on how to implement strategies and activities in your everyday life to help reduce and minimise this stress.

1. Stress-reducing
Covered above, stress is a significant issue that many of us deal with in today’s busy world. Self care being one of the biggest reasons why so many people choose to have aromatherapy treatments. Not only is the gentle touch relaxing in itself, the fragrances of the essential oils used during a massage, are inhaled  and the scents activate our lymbic system. Essential oils largely affect the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which once stimulated release hormones into the body. So if we inhale essential oils with a stimulating properties it will trigger a response in the appropriate part of the limbic system. The benefits have a calming effect on our mind and by relaxing, we let go of the tension that has built up over the week. When this is paired with the power of touch, our bodies begin to release oxytocin which is also known as the happy hormone. This reduces heightened blood pressure and cortisol levels while having anxiolytic-like effect that increases our pain threshold.

2. Relieve anxiety
With its ability to reduce stress, aromatherapy is also used on to help relieve the symptoms of anxiety. Essential oil molecules can affect the hypothalamus, autonomic nervous system and endocrine system, improve peripheral blood circulation, regulate blood pressure, pulse and respiration, and ultimately reduce anxiety. Receptors in our noses are triggered by different scents, which in turn sends a message to the nervous system. Overall it has an impact on the body’s chemical reactions. By inhaling these essential oil scent it can relax you enough, to help offer calmness, which in turn reduces the fight-and-flight mode.

3. Decreases muscle tension and pain relief.
The essential oils used in aromatherapy massage are massaged into the skin, so that they penetrate through the top layers of the dermis. Once in the bloodstream, essential oils have a range of physical actions on the body: anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic and lymphatic being some of the most helpful actions for relieving musculoskeletal pain and tension For this purpose, they can be used to relieve tension and stand alongside classic massaging techniques to work out knots. Recent studies into massage therapy shows, reduced inflammation and promotes growth of new mitochondria following strenuous exercise, these are needed for cell growth and energy. This abundance means that inflammation can be reduced and damage repaired faster.

Lavander, its a very commonly used oil in aromatherpy massage. It has many benefits. It has been demonstrated in various studies that its major components, linalool and linalyl acetate, have significant anti-inflamatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and sedative effects.

When diluted lavender essential oil was applied topically during one test, it provided pain relief comparable to that of the prescription medication tramadol. In the same year, another study found that bergamot oil could be used for neuropathic pain. This could not be treated by opioid alternatives. And, in 2012 research was done into the effectiveness of essential oils in reducing the impact of menstrual pain to much benefit.

4. Relieves symptoms of depression
Research show that essential oils trigger key mechanisms in the brain via the olfactory system. This allows signals to be sent to the limbic system and the hypothalamus to activate the production of serotonin. Pharmaceutical antidepressant medications, often relay on Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. It helps to maintain high levels of the hormone in the brain. This stabilises our mood, enabling brain cells to communicate and preventing feelings like anxiety and fight-or-flight. Aromatherapy massage provides the perfect opportunity for these scents to infuse through your senses and the benefits noted above to be felt.

5. Reduce the side effects associated with chemotherapy
Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, causes the mind and body to experience extreme stress. Many cancer patients look for complementary therapy methods, such as aromatherapy to help alleviate their pain and stress-levels and also improve mental resilience, calm the mind and assist with relieving pain.

If undergoing treatment. If the client is currently undergoing any form of treatment for cancer then a doctor's note must be produced prior to having aromatherapy treatment.

6. Helps with insomnia (Sleeping Problems)
According to the NHS,

Everyone needs different amounts of sleep.

On average:

• adults need 7 to 9 hours

• children need 9 to 13 hours

• toddlers and babies need 12 to 17 hours

You probably do not get enough sleep if you're constantly tired during the day.
 

Some of the most common causes of insomnia are related to stress, anxiety and depression. Granted not all insomnia is caused by stress, anxiety or depression, but in the cases where it is, aromatherapy massage is ideal for helping to treat these symptoms.

7. Ease labour pains
Hypnobirthing is becoming an increasingly popular labour route, rather than using traditional pain medication. Pregnant women are always seeking out different ways to manage their pregnancy aches and pains. Having a massage, with the right essential oils can help to stimulate the production of endorphins, know as the ‘happy hormones’ they are a natural form of pain killer and can help to ease contraction pains. The progression of labour is often dictated by mood, with muscles tensing up under times of stress. Using calming aromas released from these essential oils helps to ensure the labour environment remains calm and relaxing for both mother and baby.

Pregnancy. There are a number of massage contraindications relating to pregnancy, which could prevent or restrict treatment. Speak to your healthcare professional or midwife, if in any doubt. It's especially risky in the first 3 months of pregnancy.

8. Help to treat headaches and migraines
Some essential oils, have been shown in studies, to alleviate physical stress symptoms that often associated with tension headaches and migraines. One Study published in 2013 found that migraine sufferers reported a reduction in pain only 15 minutes after inhaling lavender essential oil. Further research in 2014 discovered that blending peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil and ethanol, the muscles that tenses up during headaches could be relaxed signifigantly.

9. Improved digestion
Many essential oils are known to aid with digestion and stomach problems. Some relax the body, for example, or encourage muscle contractions, making it easier for the digestive system to function properly. The same scent receptors found in our brain, that helps to calm anxiety and depression, can also send signals to the brain that tells us that food is being consumed, which signals that digestive juices need to be released. As a result the increased digestive juices, improve the quality of our digestion. The same is considered by penetrating the skin, for example, essential oils can aid with blood circulation to further improve our digestive tract. Peppermint, ginger, fennel, lemon and oregano are some of the ones most commonly associated with treating the digestive system.

10. Decongestant
Something we've all suffered with at some point in our lives is nasal congestion. Aromas from essential oils are so powerful that certain ones are able to aid with these blockages. A study in 2006 reported that tea tree oil has many antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, may help to treat the bacteria associated with sinus congestion. The most effective way to treat congestion symptoms is through steam inflation (adding a few drops of essential oils with hot water and breathing it in). It can also be used in vapor rubs on the chest and onto the soles of the feet and temples at the side of your head.
 
How to incorporate aromatherapy massage into your week
Massage is a mobile therapy that can be conducted at home, in the workplace, or at a purpose built treatment room.

Conclusion
Using essential oils as part of your daily routine can have significant benefits for you, physically, emotionally and mentally.

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If you have a history or are currently dealing with a serious health condition, please check with your GP or Medical Specialist before seeking massage therapy and fully inform your therapist of any health conditions that may affect your treatment.

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Ultimately, its is your responsibility to make sure you consult with a medical professional if you have any ongoing medical conditions described above. You should also check in with your doctor for advice if you have any cardiovascular conditions, and make sure to get the all clear before booking your appointment.

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Please remember to avoid consuming a heavy meal prior to your treatment. Make sure you are nice an hydrated, and that you drink lots of water following your treatment.

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Contraindications (For those covered above)

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Drugs and alcohol impacts blood pressure and heart rate significantly, increasing the risk of complications from a massage, therefore it is advisabe to refrain from having an aromatherapy massage whilst under the influence.

Skin conditions Cuts or open wounds; Bruises; Varicose veins; Broken bones; Burns; Some skin conditions, oils cannot be applied to these areas. A massage is still possible but its best discussed in advance and those areas avoided during treatment.

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Fever Anytime you have a fever, whether from a cold, the flu or some other infection, you should not get a massage. Massage increases circulation that may in turn make your illness worse.

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Inflammation / Thrombosis

Circulatory problems such as blood clots, thrombosis, DVT; Taking blood thinning medication e.g. Warfarin or Heparin – at risk of clots and may bruise more

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Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea

If your are suffering from nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea, then please wait at least 24 -28 hours before having aromatherapy treatment.

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Recent immunisations

If you've had one xxx then please wait for xxx until you have an aromatherapy treatment.

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Acute injuries

Please wait 48 hours before having treatment.

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Contageous diseases

This includes, COVID, colds and flu. Please wait until you are fully recovered before having a treatments. This will help to prevent the spead of your illness.

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Acute infections

This includes (but not limited to) Hepatitis A.

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Severe unstable Hypertension (High blood presure, that isnt being treated or under medical supervision)

I cannot offer aromatherapy treatment if your Blood pressure is unstable, as this could make things worse for you.

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Recent operations / surgery

If you have had recent surgery (in the past 6 weeks) then please discuss with your health care professional prior to booking an aromatherapy massage.

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Severe Haemophilia (if mild, consult your GP for permission)

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Anemia

If your anemia is severe, then aromatherapy treatment cannot be given. If the anemia is mild, then it may be possible with your G.P or healthcare providers permission.

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Advanced Cirrhosis of the Liver

Treatment can not be given.

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Psychological conditions

Conditions such as Bipolar, schizophrenia and paranoid conditions may be aggravated by touch and should be referred to a professional.

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Oedema

– if a result of; liver or kidney disease, infection or trauma, toxaemia or heart failure, then aromatherapy treatment cannot be given.

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Medical contraindications – Treatment for the following conditions can be beneficial but will require a GP’s written note for permission to treat. 

You may prefer to ask your GP for a permission slip before you come for treatment and bring it with you on the day, to avoid the disappointment of not being eligible for treatment.

• Following any form of recent major surgery

• Heart problems – if you have a history of heart problems, angina or strokes or are fitted with a pacemaker

• DVT (6 months after diagnosis treatment can go ahead with permission)

• Circulatory problems such as blood clots, thrombosis, DVT

• Taking blood thinning medication e.g. Warfarin or Heparin – at risk of clots and may bruise more easily which can lead to internal bleeding

• Aneurysm

• Oedema

• Cancer – if you are currently undergoing any form of treatment

• Bells Palsy, trapped nerves

• Epilepsy

• High blood pressure – if not on medication to control it or if only recently been diagnosed and yet to stabilise

• Parkinson’s Disease

• Osteoporosis

• MS

• Diabetes

• TB

• Emphysema

• Severe, uncontrolled Asthma (if asthma is being managed then GP permission is not needed.  Essential oil use may be restricted to avoid triggering an attack)

• Thickening of arteries

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