How to Use Aromatherapy During Massage

Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to improve your overall physical and mental wellbeing. Essential oils can be used in a few different ways for aromatherapy, including diffusing the essential oils with steam, or diluting and applying directly to the skin. When it comes to massage, aromatherapy enhances your experience, and, depending on which oils you use, add a boost to meet your specific needs during the session. 

Research has shown that aromatherapy has mood-boosting effects that can ease anxiety and depression, as well as physical benefits that can relieve symptoms like joint pain, nausea, and headaches.

Common Aromatherapy Oils

The following essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy massage, and can provide enhanced benefits during your session. These fragrant oils can be used alone, or as part of an essential oil blend.

Bergamot

A light, refreshing citrus scent with floral notes. If you enjoy Earl Grey tea, you’re probably familiar with bergamot. In aromatherapy massage, bergamot oil is used to reduce stress and improves mood. 

Cedarwood

Derived from certain species of evergreen trees, cedarwood essential oil has a woodsy aroma with a piney scent, that when combined with massage has stress-relieving effects that can aid in relaxation and sleep.

Chamomile

Sweet and herbaceous, chamomile essential oil has a light, approachable aroma. A great option for aromatherapy massage before bed, use chamomile essential oils for a relaxing, sleep-inducing effect.

Eucalyptus

With a powerful, cooling sensation, eucalyptus essential oil is well known for its many health benefits. In aromatherapy, eucalyptus oil can promote better respiratory health, as well as help to reduce headaches and fevers. 

Geranium

Geranium essential oil’s heady floral scent has a spa-like fragrance, commonly used in soaps, lotions, and perfumes. When used in aromatherapy massage, geranium oil helps reduce stress and anxiety, release tension, and may even aid in balancing emotions. 

Ginger 

Fresh with a lemon-like aroma, accented by a woody top note, ginger essential oil pairs well with citrus and spice oils. Used in aromatherapy massage, ginger oil is stimulating and warming, with stress-reducing properties that can also relieve nausea and dizziness.

Lavender

Lavender essential oil is well-known for its strong herbal and floral scent. Use lavender aromatherapy for stress reduction, as well as before bed for a relaxing, calming effect to help you sleep. 

Lemon

Bright and fresh, lemon essential oils are great to diffuse throughout the day. As an aromatherapy essential oil, lemon is used to boost energy and improve concentration.

Orange

Sweet and citrusy, orange essential oil is great to diffuse during the day for an uplifting, energizing effect. In combination with other oils, orange can help boost concentration and may reduce anxiety.

Peppermint

Just like the cooling rush you get from a breath mint, peppermint oil is great for energizing and sharpening focus. Using peppermint oil in aromatherapy massage can also help combat headaches and nausea.

Tea tree

This widely used essential oil has a range of uses. In aromatherapy, tea tree oil’s fresh, piney scent has invigorating properties, and is actually a natural immune booster, great for staving off respiratory ailments and relieving congestion. 

If you’re feeling creative, you can also make your own DIY massage essential oil blends. Before experimenting with essential oils at home, make sure you are purchasing high-quality essential oils that are pure and contain no additives, and follow the NAHA guidelines for safe essential oil use. Consult a doctor if you are pregnant or booking a prenatal massage, as some essential oils are not safe to use during pregnancy. 

Aromatherapy Massage with Soothe

At Soothe, we want your in-home massage experience to be exactly what you need and deserve. Some therapists use aromatherapy during their appointments; once you book your massage, you’ll be able to communicate with them to customize the experience. You can also choose to diffuse your own essential oils and blends during the session. If there are certain aromatherapy scents you don’t want our therapists to use during your session, you can adjust your preferences on the Soothe App.