A Little About Oils
A variety of fixed and infused oils are used in massage, mechanically to ease movement over the skin and therapeutically for their health benefits. Fixed oils are
pressed from seeds, nuts, and some fruits, such as olives and avocados. Infused oils are fixed oils that have been infused with herbs, spices, or resins and so absorbed additional colours, aromas, and therapeutic properties. Some are
useful for reducing pain and inflammation, others are relaxing, and some are especially beneficial for the skin. Among the
oils Joseph uses are:
Arnica (Arnica montana) - This
cheery yellow infused oil is renowned for its anti-inflammatory
properties, helping to reduce pain from injury, overexertion, and
chronic disease. Arnica can also be employed to reduce inflammation of
the skin, and is helpful for eczema and bruising. It has a beneficial
effect on stress and low mood.
Avocado (Persea americana) - This
dark green oil is expeller pressed from the flesh of the Avocado fruit. It is very rich in Vitamin E, making it highly nourishing to
the skin and beneficial for scars. Avocado oil renders the skin soft and
supple, and relieves inflamed, sore, or
cracked skin. The oil is so rich and viscous that it is only used in
dilution.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - This
infused oil is traditionally dropped into the ears to treat all sorts
of problems - earache, tinnitus, deafness, and waxy build-up, among
others. In Massage, Joseph employs it for
arthritis and rheumatic joint pains.
St. John's
Wort (Hypericum perforatum) - This
infused oil is dark red. The herb's affinity for the nervous system
is well known, and it is renowned for its antidepressant effects. The
oil is very effective at reducing pain,
especially nerve pain, and is employed in massage, aromatherapy, and
herbal medicine, for the treatment of many types of painful conditions
- including injuries, bruises, scars, arthritis, and neuralgia.
Olive (Olea europea) - More
familiar as a cooking oil, Olive oil is excellent for the skin,
nourishing dry skin and reducing sun damage if applied immediately
after exposure. The oil is quite astringent and so is useful on
varicose veins and to tone slack tissues. Similarly to
Arnica, it exerts a calming influence on the stressed or anxious mind,
and like Avocado, it is thick and very rich and so used only in
dilution.
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) -
This infused oil is a soft green. It is a traditional
healing remedy for injuries,
whether to the skin, fascia, muscles, joints, or bones, and is used on
bruises, strains, sprains, tears, and fractures, as well as scars.
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) - This
familiar golden yellow fixed oil has small molecules that are easily
absorbed by the skin, so it does not leave a greasy residue. Sunflower
oil promotes healing and is slightly astringent, useful for bruises
and varicose veins. It also makes an excellent base massage oil for
those with nut allergies.
Marigold (Calendula officinalis) - This
bright orange infused oil is
specifically indicated for varicose veins, and is an excellent external
healer for both superficial and deep tissues. It is anti-inflammatory,
astringent, and healing, useful for eczematous and psoriatic skin,
scars, and bruises.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) - This
green-gold infused oil increases local and systemic circulation,
helping to relieve inflammation, clear stagnant accumulations such as
oedema, and energize the body. Rosemary increases circulation to the
brain, improving the memory and making one more alert.
Sweet
Almond (Prunus amygdalis) - This
fixed oil is pale yellow and light, having small easily-absorbed
molecules and a silky texture. It is soothing and nourishing to
the skin, rapidly relieving dry rough conditions. As it has no
fragrance, it is an excellent base massage oil for aromatherapy.
Wheatgerm (Triticum vulgare)-
This pale orange fixed oil smells of freshly baked bread. It is the
richest food source of the antioxidant Vitamin E, and has high
Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) and mineral contents, making it hugely
rejuvenating for dry, mature, inflamed, or damaged skin. It benefits
weak nails and hair, and is helpful for encouraging the healing and
minimization of scars. It is also thought to be helpful for tired
muscles, and is used for athletes after events or rigorous training
sessions. Like Avocado, this oil is used only in dilution as it is so
rich. It is not used on Coeliacs or persons with wheat sensitivities.
While
any fixed oil may be used as the base for an infused oil, the most
common are Sweet Almond, Sunflower, and Olive oils. In Ayurveda (The
Art of Living Wisely), the ancient Indian system of medicine, Sesame seed
oil is often used as the base for herbal infusions as it softens the skin, relieves inflammation, protects the
skin from UV damage, and is highly
preservative. In the West, Sesame oil is used in dilution for massage, as it
is both thick and rich.
The above facts are provided
for informational purposes only, and do not constitute instructions
or guidelines in the safe use of therapeutic oils. Joseph is a professional, trained
in the uses and contraindications of the oils with which he works.
Like all tools of trade, they can be dangerous if used improperly.
