What to expect from a herbal compress massage?
Herbal compress massage boosts emotional wellbeing while soothing aching muscles and stiff joints. Sticking to traditional techniques, a muslin cloth is infused with herbs and spices and then steamed to release their medicinal properties. Your therapist will then move the compress balls across your body, creating a series of circular motions to aid the release of toxins and penetrate heat into the tissues. Each therapist uses their own blend of herbs, but a mix of lemongrass, turmeric, kaffir lime leaves and tamarind are our favourites. Usually lasting anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes, this irresistible pick-me-up feels and smells wonderful!
Good to know
- Suffer from plant allergies? Just ask your therapist what herbs are used when you book and they’ll be able to tailor your treatment accordingly.
- Don’t be alarmed if you find yourself in a modified yoga pose during treatment - the practitioner may gently manipulate your limbs, improving flexibility and leaving you feeling nice and bendy.
- Did you know that herbal compress massage has been practiced since the 14th century? It has been said that Thai royalty were massive fans of the treatment as well as soldiers suffering from muscular pain after battle. Well, if it’s good enough for them...
The sciencey stuff
Herbal compress massage is well-known for its relaxation qualities, but this flower-bursting pick-me-up can also improve blood circulation and promote cell growth. How? Science, basically. As the heat of the muslin cloth warms the skin, blood vessels across the body begin to dilate which kickstarts the efficiency of different internal organs. But that’s not all! Herbs used in the compress can do different things for different parts of the body: lemongrass and kaffir lime boosts the immune system, turmeric contains anti-inflammatories and tamarind can improve skin complexion. Sweet!
