The benefits of sports massage are well documented and wide-ranging, and we explored these in a previous blog. In this blog, we’re going to take a brief look at which essential oils can enhance your sports massage treatment, and the traditional uses for these essential oils.
When working within sports therapy, you will likely face concerns such as sprains, strains, bruising, swelling, inflammation and cramp. Let’s take a look at which essential oils have been used traditionally to help soothe these common ailments.
Bruises and Swelling:
Helichrysum, Myrrh, Chamomile, Geranium, Lavender, Rosemary and Eucalyptus
Oils that are believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that also stimulate blood flow to the area are a popular choice for bruises and swelling, to help reduce tenderness and ease discolouration of the skin.
Cramp:
Marjoram, Cypress, Peppermint, Lavender and Ginger
Oils that are believed to have antispasmodic properties and are traditionally used to relieve pain, tightness and spasms in muscles can be utilised for uncomfortable conditions such as leg cramp.
Physical Exhaustion and Over-Exercised Muscles:
Rosemary, Peppermint, Lavender, Chamomile, Thyme, Eucalyptus and Geranium
When exhaustion is present, essential oils that increase alertness, mental clarity and feelings of alertness can help lift feelings of fatigue. Similarly for over-exercised and fatigued muscles, antispasmodic oils that help relax the muscles and increase blood flow to the area can help soothe tired muscles.
Sprains and Strains:
Ginger, Thyme, Lavender, Chamomile, Wintergreen, Cypress, Pine and Manuka
While essential oils can’t necessarily be claimed to cure physical injuries, oils that are traditionally used for anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, analgesic and circulatory purposes may provide some gentle relief when it comes to minor sprains and strains.
For a Warming Sensation:
Ginger, Capsicum, Black Pepper, Clove Bud, Juniper Berry, Cardamom and Cinnamon
If you need to provide a gentle warmth to the area, oils with some spice can work by increasing blood flow to the area and create a warming sensation on the skin. It’s important to exercise caution with these oils though, as using too much of them can cause skin irritation.
For a Cooling Sensation:
Peppermint, Spearmint, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon and Chamomile
If you’re looking to give some cooling relief to a particular area of the body, perhaps after a tough and strenuous sports session, essential oils that contain menthol will provide an instant cooling sensation on the skin. Interestingly, some floral and citrussy essential oils, such as Lavender and Lemon, can also trigger a cooling sensation on the skin. It’s believed this is due to anti-inflammatory properties within the oil. As with oils that create warmth, just be aware that too much of these cooling oils can often create uncomfortable irritation.
You can find many of the above essential oils in our Massage Waxes and Balms designed specifically for sports therapy, including:
Cooling and Soothing Balm: containing essential oils of Yarrow, Chamomile and Menthol, plus Hypericum oil
Warming and Easing Balm: containing essential oils of Camphor, Cajuput, Black Pepper, Ginger and Capsicum
Active Massage Wax: containing essential oils of Lavender, Orange, Rosemary, Black Pepper, Ginger and Turmeric
Sports Massage Wax and Fascial Release Wax: containing essential oils of Lemon and Manuka, plus Hypericum, Calendula and Arnica oils
The information given in this blog does not constitute as medical advice. As with any medical condition, be sure to check with a medical professional before using essential oils in conjunction with any injuries. Always ensure essential oils have been diluted to a safe level before applying to the skin.
