How to Use Essential Oils for Massage

For thousands of years, massage has been used as an important and efficacious therapeutic practice. Many ancient cultures have massage at the centre of their traditional healing modalities, and it’s been shown as an effective treatment that can address everything from muscle pain and tension to stress, anxiety and immune function. Massage therapy further encourages the release of serotonin, the feel-good hormone, which is also a precursor to the hormone melatonin that helps us to fall asleep, allowing for a better and less disturbed sleep.

Studies show that massage can improve circulation, reduce levels of stress hormones, increase flexibility, improve skin tone and reduce feelings of anxiety — and that barely scratches the surface of what massage can do! Coupled with the many healing properties of pure essential oils, the power of essential oils for massage therapy is not to be dismissed.

But what are the best essential oils for massage? What is the difference between a massage oil and an essential oil? And how can you enjoy aromatherapy massage at home?

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Essential Oil vs Massage Oil: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to note that not all oils are created equal. Pure Essential Oils are very strong, incredibly potent naturally occurring plant extracts that capture the scent, flavour and beneficial properties of the plants they’ve come from. They are, in many ways, the life force of the plant and each contains its own unique healing properties and health benefits. However, due to their potency, they’re not suitable for applying directly to the skin.

Massage oils are naturally derived, too, but they aren’t as potent as Pure Essential Oils. Massage oils are extracted from the seeds or fruit of plants and are used to lubricate the skin, making massage a smooth, luxurious experience.

Massage oils are also called carrier oils or base oils, and can be combined with Pure Essential Oils for massage with aromatherapy benefits. Sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba Oil and coconut oil are all examples of carrier oils you can use for massage.

Do I need a Carrier Oil When Giving a Massage?

In a word, yes. This isn’t a case of essential oil vs massage oil, either — you’ll need to blend the two for an enriching aromatherapy rubdown.

Although aromatherapy oils are regularly used for massage, simply dripping a few drops of your favourite scented oil onto someone’s skin can be dangerous. Essential oils are incredibly potent and, when applied without dilution in a carrier or massage oil, can cause irritation, rashes, burns and allergic reactions. That’s why you absolutely must use a carrier oil when you’re making a massage oil with essential oils, adding 6 Drops (0.2ml) to 1 tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil – the mixture can be kept for 24 hours at room temperature. Always remember to patch test first.

What are the Best Essential Oils for Massage?

Now that you know the number-one rule of making a massage oil with essential oils, let’s have some fun! You can pick and choose whichever scents you (or the lucky person getting the massage) likes best, and/or which intended health and wellbeing benefits you would like to achieve. While we might traditionally associate massages with relief of pain and tension when sore, or a post-workout rubdown, there are many other uses for essential oils during massages.

The Best Essential Oils for a Relaxing Massage

If you want a better night of sleep, go for these calming oils:

Lavender Pure Essential Oil 8ml

Bergamot Pure Essential Oil 8ml

Geranium Pure Essential Oil 8ml

Frankincense Pure Essential Oil 8ml

The Best Essential Oils for a Romantic Massage

If you want to set a romantic atmosphere, go for these passionate oils:

Clary Sage Pure Essential Oil 8ml

Australian Sandalwood Pure Essential Oil 8ml

Ylang Ylang Pure Essential Oil 8mL

Patchouli Pure Essential Oil 8ml

The Best Essential Oils for a Soothing Massage

If you want to feel less tense or worried, go for these oils:

Cedarwood Pure Essential Oil 8ml

Rose Otto in Jojoba 2.5% Pure Essential Oil 8ml

Australian Native Kunzea Pure Essential Oil 9mL

ie: Stress Essential Oil Blend 10mL

How to Give a Massage With Essential Oils

Not sure how to give a massage with essential oils? We’ve got you covered! Whether you’re giving or receiving, there are a few tips and pointers to make it the most nourishing, rejuvenating experience possible:

Step 1. Blend Your Oils

Before the massage, blend your chosen essential oil/s (6 drops) with your carrier oil (1 tablespoon).

Step 2. Set the Mood

Create an atmosphere of calm by dimming the lights and turning on some soft music. You may even like to add a few drops of the oil/s you’re going to be using to a diffuser to set the mood and foster a sense of tranquility, while also administering their therapeutic benefits.

Step 3. Get Them Comfortable

Where possible, have the receiver lie face down on a surface that’s at a comfortable height for the person giving the massage. While massage tables are used in a professional setting, your bed may be the best pick for an at-home massage.

Step 4. Spread the Oil on Your Hands

Warm up some of the oil blend between your hands by rubbing them together. Trust us, this is much more pleasant for the person getting the massage than having cold oil dribbled onto their back!

Step 5. Work on Your Technique

Begin with long, slow, gliding strokes to spread the oil gently across the skin and warm up the area for a deeper massage. Use a stronger, kneading motion, working your thumbs in a circular movement where you feel tight muscles. When you find knots, rub your fingers or thumbs slowly back and forth over the area, gently releasing the tension.

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