Bangkok. Copyright Rebecca Mitchell-Guthrie.
One unique experience with an essential oil occurred during a trip to Bangkok, Thailand. Thai culture values massage, especially foot massage. Everywhere in Bangkok you can find small shops or stalls that specialize in these, usually for about $7. The foot massage I had was given using a carrier oil with Lemongrass essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus). The lemongrass essential oil foot massage helped the horrible headache and nausea I had from eating a bad meal. What relief.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass essential oil has chemical compounds that are beneficial in a foot massage. Some of these compounds are identified as aldehydes, which have been shown to reduce inflammation, are calming to the central nervous system, and they are antiviral. Since aldehydes can be a possible dermal irritant, Lemongrass essential oil is safe for the skin when it is diluted in a carrier oil.
In addition, Lemongrass essential oil is high in chemical compounds called monoterpenes. Monoterpenes are antiseptic and mild expectorants.
Try this for a relaxing and anti-fungal foot massage blend:
- 1 tablespoon Jojoba or Sweet Almond oil
- 1 drop Lemongrass essential oil
- 1 drop Lavender essential oil
- 1 drop Tea Tree essential oil
Source: Harding, J. (2010). The Essential Oils Handbook, New York, NY: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. pp. 104-105.
Images: photos copyright Rebecca Mitchell-Guthrie
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