As the nights turn cooler and the days become shorter, finding a way to relax at home in the warm couldn’t be easier with the right essential oils. A great massage can reinvigorate the mind and body, relax muscle tension and also ease stiffness. Combine this with a homemade massage oil, and winter nights in sound so much better!
In this blog post you’ll find our favourite seven essential oils for massage, which you can combine with your favourite carrier oil for silky-smooth application. Read on to discover the perfect oil for you.
#1 Vanilla
If you’re using an essential oil during massage purely for its scent, vanilla oil is a great choice. It may not have the pain relieving properties of analgesic oils, or anti-inflammatory powers either, but the scent itself can be enough to create a therapeutic, calming atmosphere.
#2 Frankincense
With effective anti-inflammatory properties, frankincense is ideal if you’re struggling with strained muscles. Some users find that frankincense helps contribute to easier, deeper breathing and relaxation too. An added bonus of this oil is that it can also help to fade scars and stretch marks!
#3 Bergamot
Citrusy and fresh, bergamot oil is great if you’re in need of an energising massage. This oil has antispasmodic properties, to treat muscle spasms that tend to come after intense exercise. Much like frankincense, bergamot also aids in reducing scars and stretch marks.
#4 Geranium
This oil has a delicate floral scent that aids relaxation but also doubles up as a great toner and rejuvenator for the skin with its anti-inflammatory effects. The delicate floral scent blends really well with bergamot oil too, creating a soothing and stimulating massage.
#5 Peppermint
The cooling sensation of peppermint is ideal for a tension-easing massage. If you’re looking for something a bit stronger that can loosen stiff muscles, and actively reduce pain and tenderness, peppermint oil is a strong contender. With powerful anti-inflammatory properties, users find that the oil eases swelling while also focusing the mind and bringing back mental energy too.
#6 Mandarin
A beautiful balance of citrus and floral, mandarin oil is a gentle rejuvenator. This is a great start if you’re new to using essential oils for massage, because the scent is neither too strong or overpowering. If you’re looking for an oil that can restore your spirit, the scent of mandarin is sure to be a winner.
#7 Jasmine
The heady, sophisticated scent of jasmine is a known aphrodisiac, but did you know it can also help reduce muscle pain? The uplifting fragrance can help to focus the mind and increase alertness, so if you have a busy day ahead, this might be the perfect massage oil.
Ready to try essential oils for your massage? All products mentioned can be found on our site, including a wide range of carrier oils for you to experiment with blending!
Have some favourite combinations already? We’d love to hear about them. Send your pictures and comments to us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram and Pinterest for more essential oil inspo!