Clients suffering from muscle and joint pain will appreciate the use of Arnica in your treatments. Used for centuries as an herbal medicine and homeopathic remedy, Arnica helps to reduce pain and stimulate the immune system. That’s because the active ingredient in Arnica has anti-inflammatory properties. Arnica helps to reduce swelling and so is believed to be useful for treating pains, aches and bruises when applied topically.
While there are a number of species of the herbaceous Arnica plant, Arnica Montana is the one most commonly used for the production of the Arnica compound found in cream and gel form topicals. Arnica Montana that is a member of the daisy family that grows in the mountains of Europe and North America. The flowers and root of the plant are used to prepare topical remedies for pain relief.
Research studies
One study indicated the effectiveness of Arnica in speeding up the healing of bruises. Specifically, the study found topical 20 percent Arnica ointment sped up healing of bruises comparable to the effectiveness of a topical five percent Vitamin K formula. Another study indicated that topical application of Arnica Montana gel for six weeks was a safe, well-tolerated and effective treatment of mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee.
Muscle Tension Melt
Prep your client for deep tissue work with this therapeutic aromatherapy wrap that features Arnica in Controlled Glide Creme. Rhythmic movements soothe away stress and tension. Finish with a special treat by applying Polar Lotion to trouble spots leaving clients with long lasting cooling relief.
Ingredients
- Controlled-Glide Creme…….1 ounce
- Polar Lotion………1/2 ounce
- Muscle Comfort Essential Oil….20-25 drops
Supplies
- 2 rubber spa bowls
- 1 hot, moist hand towel
- Spa thermal blanket
Instructions
1. Mix Controlled Glide Massage Creme with 15 drops Muscle Comfort Essential Oil. Warm prior to application.
2. Put 10 drops Muscle Comfort Essential Oil in to rubber spa bowl.
3. Use fingertips to apply Muscle Comfort Essential Oil to energy points along the body, starting at the feet, and moving towards the sacrum. Hold your finger against the skin for 5 - 10 seconds as you apply the oil.
4. Standing at the head of the table, pull up all layers of sheets, thermal wrap and blankets, to cocoon client.
5. While client is wrapped perform relaxing rhythmic movements to stretch and prep tissues for deep tissue work.
6. Unwrap the client. Begin deep tissue massage using Controlled Glide Massage Creme.
7. Massage a small amount of Polar Lotion to specific sore, overstressed muscles. Apply a hot, damp hand towel. Press firmly with both hands on top of the towel, holding pressure. Remove towel.