Next time you treat yourself to a massage (which should be ASAP by the way), make sure to use one of the BEST carrier oils for massage.

Ahhhh massage. Simply hearing the word is just enough to breathe a sigh of release and relax… just a little. Because we all know that nothing compares to actually getting massaged from head to toe!

“To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.” -Buddha

What Are Carrier Oils?

A carrier oil is a vegetable oil made from the fatty portion of a plant, usually from the seeds, nuts, or kernels. Each carrier oil has a different combinations of health benefits and therapeutic properties.

Depending on the benefit or characteristic being sought will determine the choice of carrier oil.

Benefits of Using Carrier Oils for Massage

Various oils have been used to spread all over the body before a massage is received.

Originating from India is a 500 year old traditional holistic science known as Ayurveda.

In Ayurveda, carrier oils were frequently used to keep the body healthy and functioning at its best. It’s recommended to give yourself a brief full body massage with carriers oils before bathing or showering to:

• Stimulate body organs
• Promote the flow of toxins to sites of elimination
• Remove excess phlegm and fluids
• Release body tension
• Keep the skin supple and moisturized

Are YOU ready to have a health boosting and relaxing massage using carrier oils?

Let’s check out exactly what oil to use to get your best massage yet!

Base Massage Oil Uses

Carrier oils are often used by practitioners to provide a soothing, moisturizing sensation during a massage. They also act as an additional medium in which essential oils can be blended together and applied to the body. There are many different types of carrier oil, but here we'll focus on some popular ones.

What are the Best Carrier Oils for Massage?

Lay back… relax… and enjoy your massage with one of these rich, luxurious, and smooth carrier oils.

Here are the top 5 recommended oils by massage therapists:

1. Fractionated Coconut Oil

This health promoting oil leaves skin silky smooth and glowing. Massaging coconut oil regularly on skin also helps reduce inflammation and heal wounds.

Aside from its anti-aging and skin-healing properties, this oil stimulates the production of collagen. It is also full of vitamin E, which protects the skin from sun damage.

The difference between fractionated coconut oil and regular coconut oil is that fractionated coconut oil has had its long-chain triglycerides removed. This makes it less oily and suitable for moisturizing dry skin. It also always stays in liquid form, which makes it useful for massages and self care.

Read More: Fractionated Coconut Oil

2. Apricot Kernel Oil

This oil is made from the seeds of apricots and is anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-aging, antiseptic, and anti-bacterial. It is high beneficial to use on acne prone skin because it is non-irritant and soothing to the skin.

3. Jojoba Oil

Detox and revitalize your skin with this light moisturizing oil. Jojoba oil mimics the consistency of our own sebum, which makes it an excellent acne treatment.

Using this oil will help balance the production of excess oil while also helping to leave your pore clean and clear.

4. Sunflower Oil

Balance, moisturize, and fight the signs of aging by using this oil on your skin. Sunflower Seed Oil is known for its hydrating, softening, and skin regenerating properties. It will also prevent the loss of moisture.

5. Avocado Oil

Hydrate and renew your skin tone with this rich oil from avocados that is teeming with essential and trace minerals. Apply it to your face regularly to reduce pore size and remove impurities.

Consistent use of this oil can also reverse the signs of aging and improve skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

Read More: Avocado Oil

NOTE: Always check to make sure there are no allergies (nuts or other substances) when giving or receiving a massage. Don’t hesitate to call ahead to ask about the ingredients in the massage oil when going to a spa.

Essential Oils for a Massage: Enhancing Your Therapeutic Experience

Essential oils have been revered for their healing properties and aromatic benefits. When incorporated into massage therapy, they can significantly enhance the experience, providing various physical and psychological benefits.

Below are some of the most popular essential oils used in massages, each with its unique properties and benefits.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil is one of the most popular and versatile oils in aromatherapy. It's well-regarded for its adaptogenic and soothing properties, making it a staple in many massage treatments.

• Benefits: Lavender oil helps the body cope with stress due to its adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory qualities. It promotes relaxation, reduces inflammation, and aids in mental clarity.
• Aroma: The fresh, sweet, and floral scent of lavender is incredibly calming, making it perfect for massages intended to wind down before sleep.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus Essential Oil is invigorating and revitalizing, making it ideal for massages aimed at muscle relaxation and respiratory health.

• Benefits: Known for its cooling and analgesic effects, eucalyptus oil helps revitalize muscles, supports respiratory health, and decongests stressed-out skin. It’s particularly effective in relieving muscle pain and tension.
• Aroma: The sharp, refreshing scent of eucalyptus awakens the senses, providing a stimulating experience.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint Essential Oil is a powerhouse of refreshment and vitality, offering a multitude of benefits for the body and mind.

• Benefits: This oil is well-known for its ability to treat headaches, soothe sore muscles, and alleviate cramps associated with PMS. Its cooling effect is invigorating, making it perfect for midday massages or those requiring an energy boost.
• Aroma: The sharp, minty, and sweet scent of peppermint is stimulating. However, due to its invigorating nature, it is not recommended for massages intended to promote sleep.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit Essential Oil is an excellent choice for a midday pick-me-up, thanks to its energizing and mood-lifting properties.

• Benefits: This citrus oil helps refresh the mind, promotes focus, reduces stress, and lowers blood pressure. With its ability to enhance blood flow and alleviate stiff muscles, grapefruit oil is a brilliant choice for massage therapy.
• Aroma: The tangy, citrus scent is uplifting and refreshing, perfect for boosting energy and mood during a massage.

Clary Sage Essential Oil

Clary Sage Essential Oil is known for its well-balanced, earthy aroma and its calming, stress-relieving properties.

• Benefits: This oil supports the immune system, relieves cramps (including those associated with PMS), and reduces stress. When diluted with a carrier oil like jojoba, it can be massaged into affected areas to alleviate pain.
• Aroma: The earthy, herbaceous scent of clary sage provides a grounding, calming experience.

Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium Essential Oil offers a fresh, floral scent that contributes to its relaxing and rejuvenating properties.

• Benefits: Traditionally used to improve circulation, support the nervous system, and act as an astringent, geranium oil is believed to promote muscle contraction and enhance the appearance of a toned body. It’s particularly beneficial for firming muscles during a massage.
• Aroma: The sweet, floral scent of geranium is both relaxing and uplifting, making it a versatile choice for various massage needs.

How to Use Essential Oils in Massage

1. Dilution is Key

Never use essential oils undiluted on the skin. Combine them with a carrier oil such as jojoba, sweet almond, or fractionated coconut oil. A general guideline is to add 10-12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.

2. Personalize Your Blend

Mixing different oils allows you to tailor the experience to your specific needs. For instance, a blend of lavender and geranium can be deeply relaxing, while eucalyptus and peppermint can invigorate and uplift.

3. Application Techniques

Warm the oil blend slightly by rubbing it between your hands before applying it to the skin. Use long, smooth strokes for a full-body massage, or focus on specific areas with circular motions and gentle pressure.

How To Use Carrier Oils for Massage

It’s all about the DIY when it comes to the best way to use carrier oils for massage. It’s incredibly easy to make your own massage oil blend that has even MORE nourishing qualities by adding essential oils!

Essential oils and aromatherapy can be used for many things, but one of the most common ways they are used is to help with stress relief.

Here are a few of our favorite essential oil recipes for massage oil:

• Lavender Massage Oil
• Warming Ginger Massage Oil
• 22 Aromatherapy Massage Oil Recipes
• Massage Oil for Spider Veins

Conclusion

Incorporating carrier oils and essential oils into your massage routine can elevate your therapeutic experience, offering a range of benefits from relaxation and stress relief to muscle soothing and skin care.

By understanding the unique properties of each oil, you can tailor your massage sessions to meet your physical and emotional needs. Whether you’re giving yourself a massage or receiving one, the right oils can make all the difference in achieving the ultimate rejuvenation and relaxation.

Touch the body. Calm the mind. Heal the spirit.

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