​​​​​​Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils for certain benefits. Examples include lavender, orange and bergamot, and eucalyptus. These “aromas” are all plant-based derivatives from herbs, tree extracts, and flowers. Essential oils are extremely concentrated so to be used correctly they should be diluted into milder oils, humidifiers, or lotions.

The overall purpose of aromatherapy is meant to improve your physical and mental well-being. More consumers are testing out essential oil products than ever before by diffusing them at home or diluting them for skin usage. It has shown benefits for the following uses: anxiety; depression; insomnia; nausea; pain.

Tips for Aromatherapy Massage: 

When signing up for an aromatherapy massage, consider the following tips to make the most of this or any type of massage session:

- Choose an essential oil based on your needs. For example, you might choose a citrusy scent for boosting your mood, lavender for relaxation, or eucalyptus for pain management.

- Decide whether you want the oil diffused or applied directly to your skin during your massage. If you have any known sensitivities to a particular oil, it’s best to steer clear and choose something else.

- Don’t go to your massage on a full stomach — this could cause stomach upset during and after your session.

- Do drink water before and immediately after your massage and consider having a snack.

- Take a warm shower after your massage. This helps remove any oils left on your skin.

       

Your massage therapist is also your first source for questions about an aromatherapy massage experience. They should be able to recommend specific essential oils, and discuss what product and techniques they would use based on your needs.

Also, don’t be afraid to speak up during your massage. If something doesn’t feel right, let the therapist know. You can also ask them to apply more oils and use more or less pressure at any point. Remember that this is a quiet space, so your therapist won’t want to interrupt your experience with questions — it’s up to you to speak up.

You might reap some of the benefits of aromatherapy outside of massage sessions by diffusing essential oils in your own home.

https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-aromatherapy-massage#tips