Aromatic extracts from plants have been used therapeutically for thousands of years and their use can be traced back to all the major early civilizations. As the medical profession AROMATHERAPY today has become more interested in alternative remedies, increasing evidence has emerged that aromatherapy works.
As a result, the benefits are now widely recognized and aromatherapy is being taken seriously.
There is a close relationship between Swedish body massage and aromatherapy massage.
All aromatherapies will incorporate some Swedish massage strokes during their massage routines, especially effleurage and some palmar kneading. Aromatherapy is a holistic massage, working mainly on the nervous system as a whole and including, as a part of the same treatment, the head and body.
The purpose of massage in aromatherapy is to facilitate the absorption of essential oils. It follows that effleurage is an essential part of aromatherapy massage because it warms the skin by increasing the blood supply. It is also relaxing and makes the client more receptive to treatment.
It is a gentle process, with no place for harsh or abrupt movements.
Effective aromatherapy massage includes neuromuscular elements, lymphatic drainage and acupressure.
