How About A GOOD RUB DOWN?

Tips for using oils Topically:

Topical application of oils allows them to quickly enter
the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.  Simultaneously
as the oils are applied and absorbed into the skin the scent is
inhaled giving a double benefit.  Logic often dictates where to
apply an oil (or blend). Often applying directly to the affected
area is most effective. Headaches originate from certain places,
like some might be sinus headaches.  Common sense says that cup and
inhale, applying it to the temples, and/or applying it to the sides
of the nose would be appropriate.  Other headaches start at the
back of the neck.  Massaging a selected oil to the neck and
shoulders offers relief.  Complete the process by applying a
compress to the affected area.   The pressure points identified in
reflexology and acupressure have also proven effective places to
apply oils.  These points are shown for your convenience in charts
on the page covering reflexology elsewhere on this website.


Direct Application:

Administer directly to an affected area for pain relief or for
protection from infection. An oil (with or without a carrier) in a
spray or a salve works well. Appropriate situations to consider
direct application include burns, rashes, fungal infections, cuts,
scrapes bumps, bruises and bites.Additionally, areas of
inflammation and associated pain may be included, use topically for
muscle aches, joint pains, arthritis and gout. For upset stomachs
or digestive problems, direct application on the stomach
(especially for children) is appropriate. Caution should always be
observed to avoid contact, especially neat (undiluted oils), with
eyes or mucus membranes during direct application.


Massage:

One of the most common ways to administer essential oils topically
is through aromatherapy massage. Massage therapists attend
hundreds of hours of instruction to learn proper techniques of
massage.  It would be ideal to employ an expert every time a rub
down is needed, but that's not always feasible.  For a very
useful discussion of oils and massage consider the book Essential
Oils Overview and Reference Guide.


Compresses:

Compresses are ideal for after an oil massage.  While there is
still residue from the massage, apply a hot or cold towel to the
affected area.


For a a compress, fill a bowl with ice water or hot water and add
4-6 drops of essential oil. Dip a folded clean, sterile cotton
cloth into the prepared water and wring out.  Place the cloth on
affected areas until the cloth reaches body temperature. Oils are
concentrated  and only a small amount is required, at times it is
advantageous to use them with a carrier.  Carriers allow the
essential oil to be spread over a larger area while reducing the
risk of irritation to sensitive skin.


Hot compresses are helpful for backaches, rheumatism, arthritis,
abscesses, earache, toothache, and menstrual cramps.
Cold compresses are helpful for headaches, neck tension, swelling,
bruises, sprains, and muscle strains.


A common technique for finishing off the massage to an area is to
apply a hot or cold compress or towel to the area for a few minutes
after the massage.


Massage for Infants and Small Children:

Essential oils are of great benefit for babies and young children
using massage techniques.  Clearly, their skin is very sensitive
and extreme care should be taken to use a carrier oil during a
massage. A 2-5% carrier dilution is appropriate.


With those precautions in mind, recognize that an essential oils
massage for a baby encourages a great fun and bonding time with
parents.  Massage for babies is also a proven technique for pain
relief of many kinds including digestive discomfort and colic as
well as other health concerns.  When using the correct essential
oil, a massage is a physical type of 'lullaby.'


A highly effective method with babies and small children is to
massage their feet with essential oils.  It is considered a safe
area to apply oils that might sometimes be considered too strong or
concentrated for sensitive baby skin.  Still, use care with
"hot oils, their feet will develop calluses but not until they
begin walking.  With stronger oils the use of a carrier is
recommended.


Compresses with a damp, warm towel are comforting and therapeutic
to a baby that is suffering from discomfort or pain.  Apply
directly to the affected area(s), i.e., to the stomach area for
tummy discomfort, etc.


Here are some further tips to keep in mind when massaging babies:


* Warm hands under warm running water before beginning.
* Find a relaxing time for both the baby and the administrator. Prior to nap or bedtime is ideal.
* Talk to the baby in kind gentle tones while massaging.
* Warm the oil in the hand first before applying.
* Use gentle soft rotary strokes.
* Be gentle when applying to the tummy area.
* Keep oils away from the eyes, genitals and mucus membranes.



Keep in mind that babies do not know better than to touch their
eyes. Therefore, massage only those area(s) that can be clothed or
covered after the massage to prevent transfer to the sensitive
spots. For instance, place socks on the infant or child after
massaging their feet.


http://essentialoilsolution.com/go/la23563

Tip #21: Rub peppermint oil on the back of the neck to reduce a
fever.
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