Coconut oil for massage

Who uses coconut oil? Who isn’t using coconut oil? Coconut oil has been hailed for its multi-purpose properties. It’s great for skin, hair, and teeth. Massage therapists use it in their practice. Benjamin McDonald, Massamio, for Sohnen-Moe Associates, Inc., did some research and gave us a few thoughts on this oil, which is here to stay.

Let’s start with some general information about coconut oil.

• The melting point is 75 degrees F (24 C).
• Store liquid or solid
• The coconut palm’s mature coconut meat or kernel is extracted.
• When stored correctly, the product will remain shelf-stable for many years and will not be contaminated.
• Low-allergy and gentle risk
• Many health benefits are claimed for this versatile product

Texture & Applications

Coconut oil is a very slippery substance for massage. Some therapists blend the oils or have adapted them to achieve a little more friction when doing deep tissue work. Coconut oil is a medium absorbable and moisturizing oil that’s great for relaxation massages, but it lacks conflict when used for deep tissue massages.

Blending

What about the slippery texture? Coconut oil can also be blended with other oils in order to alter the texture. It can also be combined with essential oils when using it for aromatherapy. Massage therapists often mix shea butter and coconut oil. Mix cocoa butter with grape seed oil to get more grip and less glide. Some aromatherapists prefer to use coconut oil for “carrier” oils instead of jojoba or sesame, olive, almond, or olive seed oils.

Odor

Some therapists find the fragrance too strong and overpowering, while others don’t even notice it. This is a matter of personal taste and may also depend on what kind of oil you buy. If you want to avoid coconut oil smelling, buy pure rather than crude. It tends not to have an odor.

Staining

Does coconut oil stain sheets? Most massage therapists are concerned about this because they don’t like the idea of having to wash their linens in special ways or risk them getting stains. It is important to know which sheets resist stains better than others.

McDonald’s report said that coconut oil can be washed out. When the washer is hot, it comes out much easier. Stick to 100% cotton sheets. Poly/cotton may stain more easily.

Shelf Life

Coconut oil is often a source of confusion for massage therapists. Does the oil turn rancid? How long will it last? These questions are asked frequently. Many MTs who use coconut oil say they’ve never had problems with it going rancid. Mwe’s research revealed that coconut oil can, like other oils, go bad if it is not stored properly. Keep it away from sunlight and extreme temperatures, just like you would any other oil. According to many sources, coconut oil stored properly can last a few more years.

Solid or Liquid

Coconut oil, unlike other oils used in massage, remains solid at temperatures below 75 degrees F. There are different types of coconut oils available in liquid form. To melt down solid coconut oil, you can put it in a towel warmer. Others put their coconut oil in hot tap water to quickly liquefy it.

Coconut oil is an excellent product for massage, no matter what. It should be simple to decide if using coconut oil for massage therapy is right for you after reading the bullet points.