Our lymphatic system significantly aids in the elimination of our body wastes. To have an active lymphatic system, natural movements and flows of smooth muscle tissue must be present at all times.
Unfortunately, certain cases cause unnecessary fluids to build up in lymphatic drainages such as medical conditions, surgery, and any related damage. And if you’ve experienced surgery before, your doctor might have suggested a lymphatic drainage massage by a professional physical therapist.
But as a warning, lymphatic massage should not be performed on individuals with the following health conditions:
- History of stroke or blood clot
- Liver or kidney problems
- Congestive heart failure
- Suffering current infection
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema or lymphatic obstruction is caused by excess fluid in tissues and causing swelling. Lymphedema is commonly caused by the removal of or damage to lymph nodes in cancer treatment. This will eventually lead to blocking your lymphatic system and then prevents fluid from total draining. The fluid build-up will then causes swelling.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage Using Essential Oils
To help reduce the pain or swelling, a simple hand massage with essential oils can be done.
1. Peppermint Essential Oil – due to its anti-swelling, anti-inflammatory, and stimulant properties, Peppermint essential oil is widely known to be an effective combination with lymphatic drainage massage therapy. Aside from that, it can be effectively used for releasing stress, hair growth, and other related problems.
2. Aura Cacia Tea Tree Essential Oil – Aura Cacia Tea Tree essential oil is one of the most famous essential oils in cleansing applications. Careful cultivation resulted in this essential oil that is highly effective and safe to use. It also acts against inflammations and fluid retention.
3. Peppermint Essential Oil – with its essential purity tested, peppermint is the second most notable essential oil in the United States. Aside from being safe to use in lymphatic drainage massage, peppermint is widely recognized for its cooling effect on the skin and fresh, grassy aroma.
4. Geranium Essential Oil – this type of essential oil typically comes from Egypt and China and is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves and flowering branches. Often compared to rose essential oil in terms of usage, the oil has an aroma that is distinctly geranium.
Massage therapy using essential oils can also greatly relieve stress and anxiety, ease symptoms of depression, improve cardiovascular health, reduce chemotherapy-related nausea, and so much more. It is one of the oldest healthcare practices known by mankind. References to massage can be traced in ancient African societies and Chinese medical texts written over 4,000 years ago.