Manufacturing concerns. Look at the country of origin, how the products are grown, and how the final product is made. Some products are labeled “cruelty free.” Studies of specific essential oils have shown that they may help relieve pain by numbing or heating the area or by reducing inflammation. Many carrier oils and essential oils can help moisturize your skin. A 2010 study of herbal products for moisturizing found that the best-performing ones included:

Cost. Look at the cost of the massage oil per ounce. If you plan to use the product often, consider buying from a massage therapist supplier. In some cases, a larger size may be more economical.Then move onto another area (by working your hands across the body to reach the new area), adding more oil if required - beginning again with lighter strokes and working to a deeper pressure gradually.

Aromatherapist Tanya Colson Seneff suggests that you seek out an experienced aromatherapist for advice on which oils to use for specific therapeutic purposes. Carrier oils are often plant-based, made from seeds and nuts. Some of the most common include sweet almond, cold-pressed coconut, grapeseed, jojoba, and olive oil. Sriasih NGK, et al. (2019). The effect of massage therapy using frangipani aromatherapy oil to reduce the childbirth pain intensity.Quality. Buy from a reputable company to ensure that you’re getting a pure product without unwanted additives. Note that a filtered oil is more refined. Cheraghbeigi N, et al. (2019). Comparing the effects of massage and aromatherapy massage with lavender oil on sleep quality of cardiac patients: A randomized controlled trial. DOI: Nasiri A, et al. (2016). Effect of aromatherapy massage with lavender essential oil on pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: A randomized controlled clinical trial. DOI: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282348641_Effectiveness_of_castor_oil_massage_with_hot_application_on_knee_joint_pain_among_women Use pure oils. It’s possible that pesticides on the original plants used to make the oils can cause an allergic reaction.

A 2018 study found that a mixture of carrier oils including sweet almond, grape seed, avocado, jojoba, and macadamia oils was helpful. Test a small amount of the oil on your forearm before using. This is important if you’re concerned about allergies. You may find a store where there are samples you can try before you buy. Lakhan SE, et al. (2016). The effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. DOI: Lavender oil is at the top of the list, with evidence that it’s beneficial in promoting relaxation. Studies are ongoing to test its therapeutic effects for treatment of neurological conditions. Professional massage therapists use different products for different purposes. In selecting a massage oil, think about what you want the oil to do and the properties of each ingredient.Mirmohammadali M, et al. (2015). The effect of massage with oils on the growth of term infants: A randomized controlled trial. DOI: Hongratanaworakit T, et al. (2018). Development of aroma massage oil for relieving muscle pain and satisfaction evaluation in humans. Eguchi E, et al. (2016). The effects of aroma foot massage on blood pressure and anxiety in Japanese community-dwelling men and women: A crossover randomized controlled trial. DOI: Less is more at first when applying oil - add more oil if needed, but not so much that your hands slip off the area you wish to focus on.