A relatively unknown body treatment in N-Ireland but one used extensively in Asia.  This heat treatment in our opinion is way superior to the more common hot stone treatment or hot lava shells.  The heady scent of the Thai herbs and oils induce such a deep relaxation that we advise you to rest for at least 15 minutes after the massage.

The Thai Herbal Compress technique offers several potential health benefits:  It induces deep relaxation, relieves stress and fatigue, boosts both emotional and physical well-being, assists alignment and postural integrity of the body, improves circulation of blood and lymph and stimulates the internal organs.

The hot compresses are ideal for alleviating pain, stiff, sore or pulled muscles and ligaments, chronic back aches, arthritis, even skin conditions, migraines and chronic stress or anxiety.  The blend of traditional Thai herbs used in these compresses has a relaxing and invigorating effect on the body and mind, soothing sore and overworked muscles while giving the body’s energy reserves a huge boost.

The herbs in the compress possess properties that are anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent and antioxidant.  They are used to address sprains, bruises and sore muscles, cleanse and heal the skin by promoting cell growth, and aid upper respiratory ailments such as bronchitis, asthma, and the common cold.

The traditional herbs used:

Camphor – is stimulating the brain, heart and circulation but relieves mental and emotional stress, anxiety and insomnia. When inhaled it is good for sinuses and respiration. Used in compresses it soothes sore muscles and arthritis, and treats nervous system disorders such as multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia.

Cassamunar Ginger – soothing the muscle aches and pain. Natural emollient used by women to tone and soften their skin, and has been used (in Thailand) by generations to restore the womb after giving birth.

Eucalyptus – the aroma has an emotionally refreshing effect. While inhaling the steamed vapours or applying to the chest and throat are all effective treatments for colds, cough, congestion, asthma and other respiratory conditions. It is also antiseptic killing germs and speeding the healing of wounds and infections.

Galangal – used internally relieves many digestive ailments. It is strong antiseptic, toning the skin and treating skin diseases.

Ginger – powerful stimulant with heating effects on the body. Its oil boosts circulation, eases muscle stiffness and increases the potency of all herbs combined with it.

Kaffir Lime – the vapors are uplifting, treating respiratory ailments and oil on the skin acts as a cleansing astringent.

Lemongrass – soothing yet invigorating, clearing the head and uplifting the mind.

Turmeric – one of the key ingredients in healing, used internally for circulatory and digestive problems. It is also natural moisturizer and antiseptic popular for skin treatments.

Benefits of Thai Herbal Compress Massage

The combination of the heat, herbs and massage has the following effects;

• Reduces tension through heat and aromatic properties of the herbs
• Deep relaxation of muscle and nerve fibers (helps relieve chronic pain arising from overuse injuries)
• Softens and nourishes the skin (many herbs are nourishing, exfoliating and restorative)
• Eases respiration through the use of aromatic herbal vapors
• Improves the circulation as the massage and heat dilates the blood vessels enabling them to work more efficiently
• Aids the elimination of toxins and waste products through increased lymphatic circulation and detoxification provided by heat, herbs and massage
• Restores the body’s vital energy flow (through the stimulation of the Sen Lines)