I’m talking about natural potions made from pure plant extracts - and not from tubes of chemical-laden synthetic product that have been sitting in a hot shop for months on end. I love essential oils and the benefits that they bring. They are very complex, with up to 300 different chemicals per oil. Essential oils are highly concentrated and must be administered carefully as certain oils are contraindicated through various medical conditions, or at certain times in our lives. So seek professional advice when using them and refer to a reputable handbook. Essential oils are our allies, the benefits that they bring are numerous and range from the physical to the emotional.
I have been developing a blend for a muscle rub. I run and I regularly see runners in my Sports Massage clinic. I am aware of the importance of keeping our muscles in good working order. Post run, we need to make sure that we cool down effectively, stretch appropriately, re-fuel and provide our bodies with optimal conditions for post exertional recovery. This is where the oils come in.
I have been trialling the blend with a running coach and runners from the local running club. The brief for the blend can be seen below:
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Anti-inflammatory
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Refreshing
·
Analgesic
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To aid circulation
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To stimulate lymph
Feedback from my clients has been very positive, with
reports of recovery facilitation, inflammation reduction and an enhanced sensation
of well-being. The product comes in an
aloe vera gel, or a sweet almond oil base.
The oil is good for self-massage and the gel feels extra
refreshing. Keep the product in the
refrigerator to make it feel even more refreshing.
Here are some post exercise essential oil essentials:
Spike lavender, or Lavender – great for muscular aches and
pains, strains and bruises. Lavender
will help you to ‘come down’ after great exertion.
Chamomile – pain relieving and anti-inflammatory.
Ginger – warming and pain relieving.
Clove oil – also warming and pain relieving.
Sweet marjoram – muscular aches, pains and stiffness.
Adding essential oils to soya milk to aid dispersion in the bath |
