What Is It?

dropcap-t2he art and science of Thai Herbal Compress Massage technique has been practiced for centuries in a culture known for its healing philosophy and techniques. These handmade compresses are a combination of natural organic medicinal herbs. The synergistic blends usually contain between 10 and 30 traditional Thai herbs, bundled in pure cotton to form a herbal pressing sphere in accordance with ancient recipes.

Each herb has its own unique characteristics and therapeutic properties. Primary herbs such as phlai (cassumunar zingiber), ginger, lemongrass, galangal, eucalyptus and camphor act as decongestants and are often combined with antioxidants such as turmeric (curcuma longa), wild turmeric (curcuma aromatic) and tamarind.

See Glossary of ingredients here.

Once steamed to soften, the compresses release their wonderful aromas and properties, which include:

  • anti-microbial
  • antispasmodic
  • bronchodilator
  • anti-inflammatory
  • anti-fungal
  • antioxidant
  • anti-emetic
  • expectorant
  • sedative
  • analgesic
  • antiseptic
  • astringent

How It Works

dropcap-t2he combination of thermal, herbal, aromatic and massage therapies in one treatment at the one time has a synergistic effect.

The heated compress helps radiate heat through the body to dilate the blood vessels and increase the circulation of blood and oxygen around the body. As more oxygen is made available to various organs and tissues, they become more efficient, boosting the immune system and shifting energy.

Thermal therapy works as a heat receptor stimulant. The heat receptors function as the biological responder to hot and cold stimulation. But heat receptors also work double duty by blocking the path of the body’s pain transmitters to the brain – the result is a significant decrease in painful sensations.

Herbal therapy has been used since the dawn of time by practically every culture. The beauty of using herbs lies in their many medicinal and therapeutic properties. Some herbs have many benefits and can either be ingested or used topically or both.

Applying the compress topically transfers moist medicinal heat to our biggest organ (the skin) where it can be absorbed. This process seeks to restore balance to the body, a natural process called homeostasis, which describes the body’s natural tendency to self-regulate. It’s a process that herbs help to facilitate.

A cold compress application decreases blood circulation, slowing blood flow to the injured tissue to reduce swelling and pain. It can also promote the dissipation of pooled stagnant energy due to blocked meridian energy lines.

Aromatherapy – when inhaled, essential oils are absorbed through the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and lungs. During a massage, essential oils are absorbed through the skin; they then travel through the lymphatic system and are circulated into the bloodstream where they begin to work their healing magic.

Massage therapy is a comprehensive range of techniques to work the soft body tissue, muscles, connective tissue, tendons and ligaments. Used to relieve pain, augment physical function, rehabilitate, maintain condition and prevent injury, it helps to enhance health and wellbeing.