Massage Oils

Massage oils are used to allow hands to glide over the skin without friction, 
providing a deep sense of relaxation. They can also be referred to as carrier oils 
as essential oils are sometimes added to them to enhance the treatment. 
There are many different types of massage oils, and they vary in terms of texture,
 absorbency, and the effect they have on the skin. 
Here is a brief description of some of the massage oils to give you an idea of the
 qualities and benefits they have.

Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil has little-to-no odour and has a smooth, silky texture. 
It is easily absorbed, and because of its high levels of antioxidants it has the
ability to fight free radicals and slow the ageing process. It is rich in vitamins, 
minerals and protein and has the ability to lock in moisture, leaving the skin
 feeling exceptionally smooth and supple.
It is a safe nut-free oil and a great carrier oil for use in aromatherapy.

Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil is a light, non-greasy oil. The oil is extracted from sunflower seeds, 
and is high in essential fatty acids which are needed for healthy skin. It helps the 
skin to retain moisture and is often used in baby massage as it is so gentle.

Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is obtained from the dried kernels of the almond tree. It
nourishes the skin because of its rich concentration of oleic and linoleic essential 
fatty acids. It is a slower penetrating oil, allowing time to spread the oil over the
skin before it is absorbed fully. It is an excellent emollient, meaning it softens and
balances the moisture of the skin. This oil cannot be used with someone who has
a nut allergy.

Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is actually a wax, extracted from the seed of the jojoba plant. It has a 
silky texture and is very well absorbed. It has anti-bacterial properties and is
anti-inflammatory, making it a beneficial oil for people prone to acne. It is a 
soothing oil which can also be used on irritated skin.

Apricot Kernel Oil
This oil is made from the seeds of the apricot fruit. It is rich in vitamins E and A,
making it a great oil for prematurely aged, irritated or dry skin. It is light and easily
absorbed, often used in facial massage as it nourishes and balances moisture in 
the skin.

Focus On: PMS
​PMS, or Premenstrual Syndrome is the umbrella title given to a wide range of symptoms experienced during the menstrual cycle. These can vary from person to person and can include (but are not limited to) nervousness, irritability, low mood, headache, constipation, nausea, acne, low energy, abdominal pain/cramping, food cravings and hot flushes. While most women will experience mild symptoms at some stage, some can find that it really impacts on their everyday living. Homeopathic remedies can provide huge support and help in these cases.
As always, contact your GP if you experience any symptoms that are out of the ordinary for you and your cycle. A qualified homeopath will provide you with a good constitutional remedy which will help to alleviate your symptoms on a more long term basis, in the meantime, think of the following remedies to use in acute situations.
Generally speaking, its best to take these remedies in low potency (up to 30c), using the appropriate remedy every 15-30 mins for 5-6 doses, lengthening the time between doses as you see an improvement in symptoms. If in doubt, consult your professional homeopath.
 
Belladonna- for violent bearing down pains, worse for drafts, worse for movement. Better for bending backwards, for bed rest, for standing, for pressure on affected part.
 
Calc Carb- for nervousness and breast swelling before menses, also for anxiety, headache, depression, vertigo, abdominal or pelvic pain. Worse for cold air and for exertion.
 
Chamomilla- for irritability, nervousness, restlessness and often pains that are experienced up and down the inner thighs. Very sensitive to pain. Worse at night, aggravated by coffee.
 
Lachesis- for a feeling of tightness in the throat, uncomfortable in tight clothing, sometimes feeling extreme anger and jealousy, as well as often feeling very irritable. Physical symptoms may include hot flushes, congested feeling in the abdomen, headaches, sleeplessness. Symptoms tend to start on the left and then move to the right. Usually worse in the morning, from heat, or after sleep. Better for fresh air, for pressure, and for cold drinks.
 
Nat Mur- a common PMS remedy, helpful for emotions that change from sadness to anger, with an overall feeling that she must just keep going, and not allow these emotions to surface. Physical symptoms include headaches, lower back and lower abdomen pain, acne around the hairline. Worse for heat and better for open air.
 
Pulsatilla- for weepiness, irritable mood and mood swings. Symptoms are worse for warm air/in a warm room or from fatty/rich foods. Symptoms are usually improved for cold, fresh air, and after crying and consolation.
 
Sepia- for hormone imbalance, indifference to others (especially family), feelings of overwhelm, chilliness, dislike of fuss or damp. Physically, pressure is often felt in the lower abdomen, as if everything would fall out. Worse for consolation, worse in the morning and evening, worse from cold air. Better for warmth, for pressure, for hot applications, for vigorous exercise.

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