Tuesday 28 September 2010

Classic aromatherapy muscles mix

Professional athletes use arnica preparations with essential oils for warmup and after sporting effort for easing numb muscles and joints by boosting subcutaneous blood circulation. Cycling in particular makes great demands on the muscles. With constant training schedules professional athletes need to recover quickly.



What is an aromatherapy mix for this purpose before and after sport or simply for home use? Lets first consider the base oils. We are making a 100ml mix with Arnica infused in Sunflower oil mixed with sesame oil (cold pressed and untoasted sesame oil should be golden yellow). This is not a cheap base but very helpful in its own right. Sesame is a relatively cheap oil. 100ml will cost £5 while Arnica in sunflower will cost £18 so mix according to budget but be generous with the Arnica oil both for effect and to ensure the sesame oil does not dominate the aroma. A gel base is more convenient to apply but for maximum effect the organic oil massaged into the muscles is preferred.Arnica montana has a single bright yellow flower. Arnica does not grow in England and this infusion comes from Spain.

Alternatively grapeseed can be used with 10% wheatgerm oil as the base carrier or if you prefer almond oil.



Now we come to the essential oils. The Shirley Price Care For Muscle Ease contains Essential oils of Eucalyptus, Juniper, Lemon, Rosemary and Marjoram. Basil can be included also for its effect as a competitive nerve tonic although a tea made with Basil leaves is effective. This blend is ideal for tired and stiff muscles. It is an effective mix for use before and after sport, helping to prevent cramp and induce relaxation as well as for everyday aches and pains. Mix with the base oil and massage into tired and stiff muscles helping to revive and restore energy. You can also put a few drops in the bath.


An alternative essential oil mix is Lemon Eucalyptus , Wintergreen, Basil, Rosemary, Ylang-ylang and Laurel.  ref D. Baudoux

Cautions: avoid in pregnancy and do not apply to broken skin.

Local Sports Injury and perfomance practicioner:  Jamie Capes at ReSportsInjury  191 Outlands Drive, Hinckley
191 Outlands Drive
Hinckl

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