Professional massage therapists use different products for different purposes. When selecting a massage oil, think about what you want the oil to do and the properties of each ingredient.
In the case of essential oils, it’s important to rely on evidence, not hype or fads. Aromatherapist Tanya Colson Seneff suggests that you seek advice from an experienced aromatherapist as to which oils to use for specific therapeutic purposes.
While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
Here are some considerations:
For soothing sore muscles and jointsMany carrier oils, gels, and creams can help you massage sore muscles and joints.
A 2018 study found that a mixture of carrier oils, including sweet almond, grape seed, ocado, jojoba, and macadamia oils, was helpful. The same study mixed the carrier oils with these essential oils:
rosemarylenderpatchoulieucalyptus peppermintFor relaxationLender essential oil is known for being relaxing and soothing. Some evidence suggests that it may promote relaxation.
For pain managementSome studies he found that certain essential oils may relieve pain by numbing or heating the area or by reducing inflammation.
Older research from 2016 reported that essential oils of ginger, lender, rosemary, and peppermint were associated with a reduction in pain. However, some of these benefits may be from the act of massage itself, not the oils.