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. Deva Roopa SS, et al. (2015). Effectiveness of castor oil massage with hot application on knee joint pain among women. Hold approximately 1 tsp of the oil in your pre-warmed hands until it reaches body temperature and then begin to apply in gentle yet confident strokes.

Essential oils are steam distilled or extracted from aromatic leaves, flowers, and other parts of plants. 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. A 2018 study found that a mixture of carrier oils including sweet almond, grape seed, avocado, jojoba, and macadamia oils was helpful. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Lin TK, et al. (2018). Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. DOI:Use pure oils. It’s possible that pesticides on the original plants used to make the oils can cause an allergic reaction. Kapoor S, et al. (2010). Assessment of viscoelasticity and hydration effect of herbal moisturizers using bioengineering techniques. 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. 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.

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: 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: Increase the pressure of the massage on a certain area gradually, until under your firm strokes you feel the muscles relaxing. 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:

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. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282348641_Effectiveness_of_castor_oil_massage_with_hot_application_on_knee_joint_pain_among_women 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. Lakhan SE, et al. (2016). The effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. DOI: