Herbal Massage Creams

Combining herbs, ointments and massage goes back centuries.

The use of herbs for beauty, health and medicinal purposes goes back to ancient times, as does massage therapy. Both have been documented in Chinese, Egyptian and Indian historical texts. It seems natural to combine the two into a therapeutic cream. Whether you plan to buy or create your own herbal massage creams, you'll need to understand the ingredients and which herbs best suit your needs.

Beauty

Natural herbs can be incorporated into your beauty regime through the art of massage. To enhance your complexion and to get a healthy glow, creams that include turmeric (Curcuma longa) can be used. Aloe vera and ginseng (Quinquefolius)-based ingredients are used for their purported anti-aging properties in many beauty products.

Health

Aloe-based massage creams have soothing and rejuvenating effects. They can be used to help skin repair, such as scars, bruises, cuts and stretch marks. To get relief from sore muscles and stiffness, try looking for ingredients that include horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) and Bryonia acuta. Often, the common names are listed on the labels, but it's best to know the scientific classifications, too.

Relaxation

If you are looking for relaxation, you may want to try chamomile (Recutitais) or other ingredients that may have similar results. Kava kava (Piper methysticum), jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis),valerian (Valeriana officinalis) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) can also be included, whether individually or as a combination.

Medicinal

For rheumatism or arthritis pain, you may want to try a massage cream that includes 100 percent cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) extract, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. When massaged into the skin, it sometimes causes a warming sensation.

Warning

Don't use certain herbal massage creams if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breast feeding. Also check with a medical professional that none of your medications can react badly with certain herbs and you are able to receive massage therapy. Also before under going any herbal treatments, get tested for allergic reactions to all herbs.

References

• Office of Dietary Supplements: Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet
• North Carolina Cooperative Extension: Herbs

Resources

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine