NB: This article explores popular holistic alternative treatments and the claims made by those offering such treatments. It does not endorse any of the treatments, nor make any claims as to their effectiveness, although we have provided some medical opinions as a guide. We would always recommend that you discuss the benefits of any treatments with your GP first.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the ancient art of combining natural herbal oils with therapeutic massage. It is believed to have originated in Ancient Egypt where Imhotep (the ancient god of medicine and healing) had scriptures and rituals relating to the use of aromatic oils for bathing, massage, healing and the sacred act of embalming the dead.
Essential oils are very similar to herbal medicines and are thought to help relieve the symptoms of both physical and psychological problems but are absorbed through the skin instead of taken orally. As your skin is the largest organ in your body and connects directly to a vast network of blood vessels this can be a very effective way to receive treatment.
Interestingly, aromatherapy also stimulates the olfactory system which links to memory, social function and the central nervous system in the brain. This is believed to allow essential oils to stimulate and encourage the body’s natural healing processes and produce positive effects on emotional and mental well-being.
Each essential oil contains its own unique healing properties and chemical composition. A skillful blending together of oils can enhance and improve treatment aims by heightening and balancing helpful characteristics, creating an oil that works with your body to gently restore wellbeing and revive you.
Common Uses
A traditional aromatherapy massage uses long flowing strokes and soothing massaging movements that work into the superficial layers of the skin and muscles. It is best suited to relaxing the body and for light or medium pressure. The therapeutic oils can also be combined with other styles of massage for those who enjoy firmer pressure, however.
Aromatherapy has a myriad of different uses due to the unique properties of essential oils. As with herbalism these plant based remedies can be employed in most aspects of daily life. Aromatherapy is commonly used on: Skin Conditions, Headaches & Migraine, Hormonal Problems, Scar Tissue & Cellulite, Respiratory Problems, Insomnia & Nervous Tension, Digestive Issues and Anxiety & Depression.
Does it really work?
Research on the effectiveness of aromatherapy — the therapeutic use of essential oils extracted from plants — is limited. However, some studies have shown that aromatherapy might have health benefits, including relief from anxiety and depression, improved quality of life, particularly for people with chronic health conditions, and improved sleep. Smaller studies suggest that aromatherapy with lavender oil may help reduce pain for people with osteoarthritis of the knee, improve quality of life for people with dementia and reduce pain for people with kidney stones.” ~ Brent A. Bauer, M.D.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a traditional Buddhist form of holistic therapy which is believed to have begun over 5000 years ago. Its principles were formed under the idea of ‘The Middle Way’ which is the Buddhist belief that balanced moderation in all things leads to an end to suffering and a discovery by Chinese doctors that symptoms of disease seemed to disappear when patients were pressed in certain places.
A reflexology treatment involves the gentle massage of pressure points on the feet (or the hands or ears depending on the treatment given). Many nerves end in the feet and it is believed that by stimulating them we may help the nervous system to relax and even remove physical blockages (perhaps caused by illness) from nerves in other areas of the body. This is thought to improve the body’s functioning.
In a more spiritual aspect a reflexologist also works with the body’s internal energies known as Qi (pronounced Chi). It is believed that by removing blockages in the life force we can ensure that the body’s natural healing process can continue, undoing illness and flowing to the areas in the body that need it the most.
Reflexology is well suited to use as part of a long term health plan because it is thought to maintain general wellbeing. In China it is believed to be an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.
Common Uses
Reflexology is used to balance the body as a whole and maintain and improve its internal energies so it can help with a variety of problems. The most common uses of reflexology include the treatment of; Fatigue and Exhaustion, Low Immune System, Insomnia, Respiratory Problems, Pain Relief, Hormonal Issues, Digestive Trouble and Stress Related Conditions.
Does it really work?
Several studies indicate that reflexology may reduce pain and psychological symptoms, such as stress and anxiety, and enhance relaxation and sleep. Given that reflexology is also low risk, it can be a reasonable option if you’re seeking relaxation and stress relief.” ~ Brent A. Bauer, M.D.
Ear Candling
‘Hopi’ Ear Candling or Auricular Thermo-Therapy as it is also known is a practice dating back to ancient times and is believed to have originated with the Greeks as a form of cleansing and purifying for spiritual rites. They are perhaps more famously known through their use within Native American and Siberian prairie culture where they are traditionally used by Shamans (‘Medicine Men’) who, according to their myths, relied on them for religious rituals and healing ceremonies within the tribe.
Many people mistakenly believe that Hopi ear candles were brought to us from the Hopi Tribe of Native Americans in North Arizona but this is, sadly, not the case! However there is evidence through Oriental texts and Egyptian papyrus that the practice has been popular within many other cultures.
Ear Candles themselves are rolled up tubes of cotton flax coated in beeswax and often infused with beneficial essential oils or herbs such as St Johns Wort, Chamomile and Lavender, which have an aromatic effect (See Aromatherapy). It is believed that they have been made this way for many hundreds of years, although our modern candles have filters to protect the ear from wax and soot and are manufactured to comply with patient health and safety.
Once lit, the candle is placed in the ear and allowed to burn down to a pre-determined safety line (marked on the candle) to ensure the flame stays well away from your skin. During the candle’s burning warm air is directed into the ear which is believed to soften any wax or debris allowing them to naturally loosen and come away. Pressure within the ears and head is also encouraged to equalise.
The heat from the candle also encourages local circulation and lymphatic drainage which can help with the removal of toxins and facilitate healing as well as stimulating the inner ear and introducing a deep, soothing resonance.
Common uses
Ear Candles are said to offer symptomatic relief for many ear and head related conditions due to their versatile and gentle nature. The most common uses of ear candles include the treatment of; Vertigo, Sinus Issues, Tinnitus, Excessive Ear Wax, Hayfever, Headache & Migraine, Meniere’s Disease, Stress & Anxiety and Feelings of Pressure (Flying, Diving etc).
Does it really work?
At its best, ear candling is a lousy way to remove wax. At its worst, it can cause serious harm to your ear. It’s also risky to hold a lit candle close to your face. The flame or the melted wax could burn you. Candle wax may even drip into your ear canal, clog the passage, and make you lose your hearing for a while. There are also reports of punctured eardrums after the candling process.” ~ Jonathon McKenney / Medically Reviewed by Minesh Khatri, MD on August 24, 2020
Crystal therapy
Chakra Crystal therapy (or Crystal healing as it is also known) is a spiritual practice with roots dating back as far as 30,000 years ago where prehistoric man carried protective talismans made from gemstones (crystals). The first historical references for crystals being used as part of treatment come from ancient Sumerian and Egyptian culture where gemstones were used in religious rites and were believed to have beneficial medical properties.
Gemstones are semi-precious stones often worn as jewellery. Many crystals, such as Citrine or Agate are a form of Quartz, which is used extensively within modern technology today. Quartz gives an accurate frequency for all radio transmitters, radio receivers and computers because when compressed or bent, it generates a charge (voltage) on its surface. This is known as the Piezoelectric effect.
Internally all gemstones contain a network of repeating geometric patterns made up of compressed ions, atoms and molecules and it is believed that within this pattern is held an electromagnetic charge waiting to be released, similar to how we use Quartz currently.
It is thought that each stone holds a different charge due to the different ways in which they form and that they can interact with the body’s internal life energy (Known as Prana in Sanskrit but commonly referred to as ‘Chi’ in other cultures) and produce beneficial effects. We are helped to interact with Prana using the Yogic tradition of Chakras or ‘gateways’ which open into certain areas of the body’s energy and help the therapist to re-balance and purify areas effected by ill health, letting your body’s energy flow back to where it is needed.
Chakra Crystal Therapy is a spiritual practice similar to Reiki healing and can be incorporated into manual therapies, such as massage, or used on its own.
Common uses
Practitioners say as a spiritual medium Chakra Crystal Therapy interacts with the entire body and so could be helpful with a range of symptoms. The most common uses of Crystal Therapy include the treatment of; Chronic Pain, Drug Side Effects, Long Term Illness, Lowered Immune System, Emotional Distress and Fatigue & Exhaustion.
Does it really work?
There is no evidence that crystal healing works over and above a placebo effect. That is the appropriate standard to judge any form of treatment. But whether or not you judge crystal healing, or any other form of [complementary and alternative medicine], to be totally worthless depends upon your attitude to placebo effects.” ~ Christopher French, head of the anomalistic psychology research unit at the University of London.
Holistic massage
Holistic massage has been around for many hundreds of years but it was perhaps most prolific in the work of Hippocrates (400BC),who often prescribed ‘friction’ to help treat physical injuries and instructed his colleagues in the benefits of rubbing the body in order to help it heal and even to keep it healthy in the first place. He discovered that upwards massage is more beneficial because it encourages blood flow towards the heart.
Holistic massage takes into account the whole of the person in treatment, from emotional and mental influences to everyday lifestyle choices and physical posture in order to treat problems in a more rounded and even way – treating the body as a whole and not just the physical. This is due to the belief that the mind and different parts of the body effect each other and so treating the whole is often more beneficial and constructive.
Massage helps to stimulate and relax the skin and muscle tissue and aids in breaking down of trigger points (‘knots’ etc) which can cause discomfort. It also increases lymph flow which brings more immune cells into the body, helping the body to recover faster from illnesses, or cope better with long term illnesses. Stimulation of the lymphatic system also aids in the removal of toxins from the body. Which can reduce inflammation and swelling in muscles and other body tissues.
Another beneficial motion which massage stimulates is circulation, which is increased. This helps to bring more oxygen and nutrients to the organs, increasing their function and may ultimately making the body a healthier place. Hormones such as Endorphin, Oxycocin and Serotonin are also released during massage and these interact with the opiate receptors in the brain to reduce the body’s perception of pain as well as increase the immune response and could even produce improved mood, sleep patterns and reduction of anxiety.
Massage also promotes deeper breathing by encouraging the body into a relaxed sleep-like state. This can regulate breathing and strengthen the respiratory muscles. Studies (like those by Cedars & Sinai) even showed that physical touch can help to lower blood pressure reducing the strain on your heart and arteries, making you healthier, and reducing headaches and nosebleeds.
Common uses
Holistic massage combines several techniques such as acupressure and Swedish massage to give you a relaxing, but thorough, treatment. The massage can be easily adapted to be more invigorating or more soothing depending on your preference.
Practitioners say that holistic massage can be a helpful tool in managing health problems alongside modern medicine but is also seen in many Asian cultures as simply being part of living a healthy lifestyle and a way of maintaining health. Common uses of Holistic Massage include the treatment of; Body Tension, Depression & Anxiety, Stress Related Disorders, Headaches & Migraine, Insomnia, Acute & Chronic Pain and High Blood Pressure.
Does it really work?
The holistic approach to massage therapy can touch an individual’s whole being – physical, mental and emotional. It holds the possibility of reintegration, is person centred and is guided by principles of sensitivity, awareness and quality of touch. These enable the holistic massage therapist to work with clients, applying techniques and skills in an appropriate manner. ~ Andy Fagg, for Massage World
Stone massage
Stone Massage or ‘Hot Stone Massage’ as it is also known is a modern therapy based on more ancient treatments. The practice of using heated stones within massage was present in China around 2000 years ago as a way of improving the function of the internal organs. Hot stones massages were also used alongside baths in the Roman times where hot immersion baths and the cooling effects of cold pools complemented them.
In more recent history hot stones were used in healing ‘sweat lodge’ ceremonies by the Native American people who referred to them as ‘grandfather’s stones’. The combination of the use of the four elements (fire, water, air and earth) in the heating preparation for the stones made them particularly scared and much worth was placed on perfectly round stones that could be used to rub on painful areas.
In modern therapy a combination of hot and cold stones are used on the body as a tool for massage, allowing a much deeper and often more effective massage than normal.
The use of hot stones increases the body’s relaxation response and pre-heats the muscles which allows the therapist to massage more deeply without causing discomfort. The heat also increases local blood and lymphatic circulation bringing more oxygen to the body’s systems and aiding repair and immunity. It can help increase the range of joint movement and reduce pain and tension.
The use of cold stones can help to reduce swelling, muscular spasm and painful inflammation. When used in conjunction with hot stones the contrast of temperatures is believed to cause the lymphatic vessels to constrict and dilate, initiating a ‘pumping’ action (which the lymphatic system does not normally have) and so move waste and stagnant fluid out of the area and healing cells into the area. The contrast also produces a gentle tissue work out; stimulating without stressing the area, which can be very useful for areas that need rest as they are healing.
Traditional stone therapy also has a more spiritual aspect where the stones used in the therapy are believed to hold some of the deep energy from inside the earth which can be relayed positively from contact during treatment. As a result many therapists will place or work with stones at body ‘gateways’ known as chakras in order to improve the body’s life force flow and will spend time ‘re-energising’ their stones with natural energy from sunlight and other sources in-between treatments.
Common uses
Stone massage can be a fantastic remedial tool as it works deeply into the skin and muscles, combining long flowing strokes with extended kneading. It is invigorating and well suited to people who enjoy firm pressure but can easily be modified to a lighter and more relaxing tone for those who prefer it.
Practitioners say that stone massage can assist the body both on a physical, mental and spiritual level so is believed to be beneficial for a wide range of issues. The most common uses for stone massage include the treatment of; Poor Joint Mobility, Sports Injuries, Muscular Tension, Chronic Pain, Stress & Anxiety, Arthritis, Inflammatory Conditions and Depression.
Does it really work?
Anyone who is experiencing muscle tension and pain, insomnia, or stress may benefit from a hot stone massage. If you have a chronic condition that causes pain, talk to your doctor to see if a hot stone massage is a good option for you. ~ Annette McDermott, Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT
Thai massage
Traditional Thai Massage (Also known as Thai Yoga Massage or Thai Style Massage) has roots in ancient Buddhist practices which are thousands of years old. Known as nuat phaen thai in the Thai language it is believed to have been founded by Jivaka Komarabhacca, also known as Shivago, who was reported as being doctor to the Buddha and the Buddhist community around 2500 years ago.
There are several different forms and styles of Thai Massage existing today in Thailand all of which have unique approaches to the body.’Royal Style’ is only used on aristocracy and the royal family and prohibits the use of the feet (which are seen as being offensive and unclean) maintaining a strict distance between the client and the therapist.
‘Common or Rural Style’ however is used regardless of class and involves using the feet and elbows as well as the hands.Lifts, stretches and yoga like poses are also often employed. Common style differs according to different areas of the country also. A Southern style is a form mainly taught in Bangkok. It focuses on energy line work and firm acupressure where as Northern style a form mainly taught in Chiang Mai. It tends to be much less vigorous and involve more stretching techniques. We use the Southern Common Style.
Thai Massage is a much deeper and more intense form of massage than many other disciplines as it uses the therapist’s body weight to treat along the muscular structures, allowing for better reduction of muscular strain and tension. The unique yoga-like stretches within the therapy also help to work the joints which may relieve stiffness and improve mobility and flexibility. Trigger points (‘knots’) can could be efficiently released during this massage, all of which can both contribute to improved athletic activity.
Circulation and the Lymphatic system is also thought to be stimulated with this massage allowing nutrients and healing cells to move around the body faster and eliminating waste and body toxins. The rhythmic, flowing, nature of the massage is also very relaxing and aids in the release of positive hormones (such as serotonin) which can improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.
In Thai Massage the body is seen and respected as an ever-changing network of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual processes that all influence each other so the spiritual aspect of the treatment is seen as being quite important. It is believed that the body contains an internal energy or life force known as ‘Sen’ which flows along meridian lines similar to veins. During that massage the therapist’s primary aim is to balance the body’s energy by stimulating it’s flow and removing any blockages (believed to be caused by trauma or disease). It is thought that your body is better able to heal, both physically, mentally and emotionally if the Sen is in equilibrium.
Within Thai Massage it is also common practice to employ a muslin bundle full of native local herbs, warmed in hot water known as Luk-Pra-Kob. This hot compress contains herbs to such as ginger and lemongrass to stimulate and invigorate the body. It is believed to improve overall health and circulation and is used to press along the legs and back, heating the muscles and allowing a deeper and more relaxing massage similar to the effects seen in stone massage.
Common uses
Thai massage is a very physical massage, involving rhythmic deep tissue work and long, restorative, stretches. It is well suited to people who enjoy fairly firm pressure or who practice Yoga, Pilates or Tai-Chi.
In Thailand, Thai Traditional Medicine (which includes Thai Massage) is considered to be an essential part of healthy living, increasing vitality and is recognised and regulated by government. It is seen as an accepted medical discipline that can treat a wide variety of conditions. The most common uses of Thai Massage include the treatment of; Muscular Tension, Strained or Overworked Muscles, Stiff Joints, Low Immune System, Stress & Anxiety and Fatigue & Sluggishness.
Does it really work?
Thai massage is an ancient practice with many benefits that are supported by modern science. It may reduce the severity of your headaches, decrease lower back and joint pain, increase your flexibility, calm your anxieties, and energize your mind and body. Thai massage isn’t a passive treatment. Your practitioner will move you through a gradual series of yoga-like positions in addition to working on the tension in your muscles. Thai massage may not be safe for everyone. If you have an underlying health condition, be sure to find out from your doctor if this traditional form of massage is safe for you. ~ Written by Rebecca Joy Stanborough, MFA / Medically reviewed by Lauren Jarmusz, PT, DPT, OCS
In conclusion
Studies have found that:
- Aromatherapy, reflexology, holistic massage, stone massage and thai massage may be beneficial for some people.
- Ear candling is unsafe.
- Crystal therapy is no more effective than a placebo.
See ‘Alternative medicine‘ for more information on the legitimacy of these treatments. We would always recommend that you speak to your GP before trying any new form of treatment.
This article is not intended to be medical advice.
Main photo credit by Hugo.arg at the Samogitian language Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5647500