By
Mindy Green for
American College of Healthcare Sciences
Extend
the benefits of your massage by facilitating detoxification with herbs and
essential oils.
Bath
Herb
teas and essential oils can be used in the bath for their healing and
detoxifying properties. Start with five to eight drops in a full tub and do not
exceed 15 drops of even the safest oils, such as lavender or geranium. If using
peppermint, lemon or other citrus scented oil such as lemongrass, do not exceed
three drops, as they can irritate skin.
Combining
essential oils with vegetable oil before adding to the bath will reduce any
irritation on sensitive skin. Epsom salts contain magnesium chloride, which helps
to relax the muscles. Soak for 20 minutes. Using the same oils provided during
your massage can trigger the same relaxation effect.
If
you absolutely must be active after your massage, utilizing stimulating
essential oils can help restore your vigor.
Post
Massage Herbal Detox Tea
Combine
one ounce of each-
- dandelion
- cleavers
- parsley
- linden
- peppermint
- ginger
Use
one teaspoon per cup of boiling water, cover and steep for 5-15 minutes. Strain
and drink.
Post
Massage Muscle Relaxing Bath
Combine
three ounces each -
- yarrow
- burdock
- calendula
- cramp
bark
- black
haw
For
an herbal bath, use one cup of dried herbs per three quarts of water. Bring the
water to a boil, remove from heat, add the herbs, cover and steep for at least 30
minutes. Strain the tea into the full tub of water.
Post
Massage Essential Oil Bath Blends
Relaxation
4
drops lavender
2
drops chamomile
2
drops orange
Muscle
Relief
5
drops marjoram
2
drops eucalyptus
1
drops lemongrass
Stimulating
5
drops rosemary
2
drops fir
1
drops peppermint
Add
each 8-drop blend to one full tub of water. Stir, and soak for at least 20
minutes.
Herbal Suggestions for the Tub or Teacup
Lymphatic
herbs
Cleavers:
best lymphatic tonic, with alterative and diuretic properties; assists the
detox process of swollen glands.
Calendula:
anti-inflammatory herb helpful for a variety of skin complaints, including
bruises and sprains; also supports detoxifying the lymph system.
Nervine
herbs (calming effect)
Wild
oat: The best nourishing nervine, it is specific for debility and exhaustion.
Chamomile:
best known for calming insomnia, anxiety and as an anti-inflammatory.
Vervain-
strengthens nervous system while relaxing stress and tension, antispasmodic.
Linden:
soothing herb that has the unique ability to reduce cholesterol deposits and
prevent build-up.
Passionflower:
Sedative and pain relieving; the best choice for insomnia and neuralgia; antispasmodic
Detoxifying
herbs
Burdock:
Mild bitter stimulation encourages the liver and eliminative processes
including digestive and kidney function.
Dandelion:
effective diuretic with excess potassium providing an overall gain of this
important nutrient.
Parsley:
This overlooked culinary garnish is an effective diuretic and digestive aid;
rich source of vitamin C.
Yarrow:
Urinary antiseptic and diuretic that stimulates digestion and tones the
vascular system.
Celery
seed: Anti-rheumatic, diuretic and digestive herb reduces uric acid levels in
the body and is helpful for arthritic conditions.
Muscle
relieving herbs
Crampbark:
Relaxes muscle tension and spasms; sedative and astringent.
Black
haw: Antispasmodic and sedative useful in reducing blood pressure through
relaxation of the peripheral blood vessels.
Ginger:
Anti-inflammatory, warming and stimulating for peripheral circulation, sprains and
fibrous muscle conditions; promotes elimination through perspiration.
Cayenne:
Hot spice that blocks pain receptors; used to relieve everything from
overworked muscles to arthritic complaints.
About the Author:
Mindy Green is a nationally recognized authority on botanicals and co-author of Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, 2009. Friend her on Facebook or see more at www.greenscentsations.com
*Note: This information has not been
reviewed by the FDA. This information has been provided for educational
purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent
disease. Before making any significant changes to your health routine,
always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor.
