Oils have been used in massage treatments throughout history. Homer wrote about an oily medium used for massage as early as 1000 B.C. Plato and Socrates wrote of anointing with oil and rubbing to ease pain. Today there are many types of oils with many uses. It is necessary to experiment with the many types and try them on a variety of skin types to develop your own sense of use and personal preference.
The purpose of using oil in a massage is to facilitate the gliding over the skin. The various oils contain ingredients for nourishing the skin and promoting health. Essential oils (fragrant oils distilled from plants, trees, roots, seeds) can be added for further enhancing the treatment.

When buying oils, look for cold-pressed or expellier-pressed (made with the least amount of heating and processing) as they last longer. Look for high quality oils and buy the best you can find.
A rancid oil can cause free radical damage to your body. Keep large quantities of oils refrigerated or in a cool place (below 65 degrees) when not in use to delay spoilage. Vitamin E added each month to the oil will help prevent spoilage. Use about 300 IU of vitamin E per pint of oil. A rancid oil will have an unusual smell to it and taste bitter. Make only enough to last a couple of months as diluted oils will deteriorate. Store in a cool, dark place and add a label with the date your oil was prepared.

Carrier Oils

Almond - Almost odorless and slow to spoil.
Grapeseed - This odorless oil contains vitamin F.
Hazelnut - A deep penetrating oil that stimulates circulation.
Avocado - Best mixed with other oils to prevent it from becoming sticky. Rich in vitamins A, B, and D.
Olive - Calming and good for rheumatism and stretch marks, but has a strong odor.
Soya - A pleasant feeling oil that won't become sticky with pressure.
Sunflower - Contains vitamin F, but doesn't store well.
Jojoba - Gives a satiny smooth feel to the skin.
Macadamia Nut - Expensive, good for dry, aging skin and wrinkles.

Essential Oils

Experiment! Here are some suggestions to help you get started.

For deep relaxation- Bergamot, Lavender
After a stressful day - Rose Geranium, Lavender
Energizing - Bergamot, Rose Geranium, Lemon Eucalyptus
For balance after emotional stress - Rose Geranium, Bergamot, Rose
Confidence boosters - Grapefruit, Lavender

First, add the essential oils to the bottle, place the cap tightly on the bottle, and roll vigorously between your hands. Next, add the carrier oil, then mix again. A good dilution is 5-30 drops of essential oil to 1 3/4 ounce of carrier oil. Use only 5-10 drops for babies, people on medications or with addiction problems, pregnant women, and people with emotional problems.

* The information provided on this site is provided for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Should you have any serious health concerns, you should always check with your health care practitioner before self-administering any natural remedy.

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