Many people find that nothing is more satisfying than a good massage after a hard day's work. And a massage with essential oils may bring about more benefits than just a relaxing rubdown would.
Essential oils, or aromatherapy oils - extracted from plant sources - are increasingly popular because of their claimed therapeutic effects.
Mr Jon Tay, a certified aromatherapist and the South-east Asia representative for the International Federation of Aromatherapists, said the more popular essential oils used include lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree and peppermint. Lavender oil has been touted to soothe and relax the body. Eucalyptus oil is said to alleviate respiratory conditions.
Tea tree oil is supposed to be an immune system booster and peppermint claims to help increase alertness.
However, essential oils are very concentrated and should not be used undiluted, said Mr Tay.
"Undiluted essential oils may burn the skin and cause allergies, especially if a person's skin is very sensitive. Essential oils are powerful and we need to use them with care," he added.
For safe use, essential oils need to be blended with a medium. Called carrier oils, common mediums include almond, olive and jojoba oil. There should be about three drops of essential oil to 10ml of carrier oil, said Mr Tay.
In order to gain the maximum benefits of essential oils, this mixing with carrier oils should be done on the spot before the mixture is rubbed into the skin. Once mixed with a carrier oil, the blended essential oils have a short lifespan of two months before they start to turn rancid, compromising therapeutic efficacy, said Mr Tay.
Despite the touted benefits, having a massage with essential oils may not be suitable for some people. Said Dr Ang Chee Beng, a consultant dermatologist at Ang Skin and Hair Clinic: "For those allergic to fragrances, certain massage oils may pose a problem because they contain fragrances in their ingredients. Allergic contact dermititis - an itchy rash - may result."
People with oily skin should also avoid using massage oils to prevent pimples from forming on the body, said Dr Ang. Those suffering from chronic and acute health conditions should consult a doctor before using essential oils, said Mr Tay.
This article was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times.
