Herbal stamp massage is becoming increasingly popular. It is an excellent way to expand your massage practice in an easy and accessible manner. But what exactly is a herbal stamp massage? And how do you use herbal stamps correctly? We've compiled everything you need to know about this topic.
Table of Contents
- What is a herbal stamp massage?
- What types of herbal stamps are there?
- Heating herbal stamps
- Making your own herbal stamps
- Frequently asked questions about herbal stamp massage
What is a Herbal Stamp Massage?
A herbal stamp massage is a massage technique that uses herbal stamps—cotton pouches filled with a mix of herbs. These herbs are carefully selected based on ancient Eastern recipes. Essential oils are often added to enhance the massage's effects. When the herbal stamps are heated, the scent and properties of the medicinal herbs are released optimally.
Effects
Massaging with these fragrant, warm herbal stamps deeply relaxes muscles, improves blood circulation, and relieves blockages. The scent of the herbs promotes complete relaxation of the body and mind, bringing your client into balance. It is an ideal massage for treating lethargy, stress, and fatigue.
Origins
Herbal stamp massage originates from Asia, where herbal stamps have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and Ayurvedic treatments. This technique is gaining popularity in the Western world and is now being offered in many massage practices and spas—making it a great addition to your practice!
What Types of Herbal Stamps Are There?
Different herbal stamps are available, depending on the desired effects of the massage. It is important to choose herbal stamps made from natural ingredients. Ensure that the stamp itself is made of cotton rather than synthetic fabric.
Ancient, Natural Recipe
The herbs in herbal stamps should be 100% natural, without preservatives. The herbs in our Original Thai Herbal Stamps are based on an ancient Thai recipe and contain only natural herbs. Our herbal stamps are available in different weights to ensure the perfect size for your massage needs.
Weight
Herbal stamps come in different weights depending on their purpose:
- 200g & 150g: Ideal for the back and legs.
- 50g & 100g: Suitable for the face and smaller areas of the body.
Choosing the right herbal stamp depends on the type of massage you are performing and the desired effects.
Heating Herbal Stamps
There are multiple ways to heat herbal stamps. Regardless of the method, always check the temperature by testing it on your own wrist to avoid burns on the client’s skin.
5 Methods for Heating Herbal Stamps
-
Hot Stone Heater with Insert
- Ideal for keeping herbal stamps warm throughout a massage.
- Ensure the herbal stamps do not sit directly in the water; place them on a rack.
- Heat for 15-20 minutes before use.
-
Microwave
- Submerge the herbal stamps in water, then heat them for 1-2 minutes.
- Less practical as the stamps cool down quickly and must be reheated frequently.
-
Steamer or Rice Cooker
- Uses steam to heat the herbal stamps, enhancing the release of herbal aromas.
- Easily keeps herbal stamps warm during treatments.
- Heat for 15-20 minutes before use.
-
Over a Pot of Boiling Water
- Place the herbal stamps in a metal strainer over a pot of boiling water.
- Less safe due to the risk of burns from boiling water.
-
Towel Warmer
- Provides dry heat, so lightly moisten the herbal stamps before use.
- Convenient for keeping herbal stamps warm between treatments.
Making Your Own Herbal Stamps
It is possible to make your own herbal stamps, but it requires effort and knowledge of herbal properties. Some herbs enhance each other, while others counteract one another.
If you want to ensure that your herbal stamp massage provides the desired effects, it is easier and more reliable to purchase pre-made herbal stamps. Be sure to choose stamps made with natural ingredients based on traditional recipes for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herbal Stamp Massage
What Do You Need for a Herbal Stamp Massage?
You need several items for a herbal stamp massage. Naturally, you need the herbal stamps themselves, a hot stone heater with an insert or a steam cooker (or another method to heat them), a massage table with accessories, and optionally, natural massage oil.
Herbal Stamps
To perform a herbal stamp massage, you need the herbal stamps themselves. It is advisable to use two per treatment. Before starting the massage, heat both herbal stamps. As you continue with the massage, the stamp will cool down. After about five minutes, it is helpful to switch the used stamp with a warm one and reheat the cooled stamp. This way, you always have a warm herbal stamp available throughout the treatment.
Heater
You also need something to heat the herbal stamps. As mentioned earlier, the easiest way to do this is with a steam/rice cooker or a hot stone heater with an insert.
Natural Massage Oil
If you want to use oil during your herbal stamp massage, it is recommended to use natural massage oil rather than synthetic alternatives. Choose an oil that complements your herbal stamp, such as lavender oil for a lavender herbal stamp. You can also opt for a neutral massage oil to allow the full aroma of the herbal stamp to be experienced.
Massage Table and Accessories
Additionally, you need a massage table and relevant accessories. It is advisable to use a fitted sheet for your massage table. This ensures hygiene and provides extra comfort for your client compared to lying on a bare massage table.
Alternatively, you can use disposable examination table paper. Zengrowth's examination paper feels like fabric and is both hygienic and comfortable. To further enhance your client's comfort, it is recommended to use a leg bolster with a cover.
How Often Can You Reheat a Herbal Stamp?
A herbal stamp can be reheated four to five times before the scent and effectiveness of the herbs diminish. However, this depends on how long you use the stamp in each session. If you use it for one to one and a half hours, expect to reuse it fewer times.
As the scent fades, the effectiveness of the herbal stamp decreases. For hygienic reasons, it is recommended to use one herbal stamp per client or wrap it in a cloth or cover.
If you plan to reuse the herbal stamp:
- Let it dry completely.
- Store it in the refrigerator after use.
- This helps preserve its effectiveness for a longer time.
For professional massage therapists, it is advisable to give used herbal stamps to the client instead of keeping them. A great tip for your client is to use the herbal stamp in a bath after the massage, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of the herbs for an extended period.
How Long Does a Herbal Stamp Massage Last?
The duration of a herbal stamp massage varies based on your preference and that of your client.
- A herbal stamp massage can be performed as a standalone treatment.
- Many therapists use herbal stamps before an oil massage to stimulate circulation and relax muscles.
- Others prefer to use herbal stamps after another type of massage for additional relaxation.
The treatment can be customized based on what works best for you and your client.
How to Use a Herbal Stamp?
There are different ways to use a herbal stamp. You can use it with or without oil. The herbal stamp can be used for massage or placed on a pain point.
Herbal Stamp Massage Without Oil
By using a herbal stamp without oil, the heat penetrates directly into the skin.
- Apply pressure and make a circular motion with the stamp on the skin, but keep it in one spot to avoid a scraping sensation.
- Move along meridian lines or massage tense muscles, depending on the desired effect of the herbal stamp massage.
- A herbal stamp massage without oil can also be used as a preparation for an oil massage. This helps stimulate blood circulation and promotes deep relaxation.
- To finish, you can follow up with a relaxation massage with oil.
You can also use a herbal stamp by placing it on a pain point of the client. This allows the heat to penetrate even deeper, enhancing the direct effect of the herbs on the pain point.
Herbal Stamp Massage With Oil
It is also possible to use herbal stamps with oil in two ways:
- After an oil massage – Use herbal stamps to enhance the massage’s effects and provide a warming final touch.
- During the massage – Ensure you use enough oil to prevent the herbal stamps from dragging on the skin.
Using natural oil, such as Verana neutral massage oil, is ideal. Alternatively, you can match the oil’s scent with the herbal stamp (e.g., lavender herbal stamp with lavender oil).
With oil, gliding movements can be performed using the herbal stamps instead of your hands, creating an even deeper sense of relaxation.
Can I Give a Herbal Stamp Massage Myself?
Absolutely, and it’s not difficult! There is little that can go wrong during a herbal stamp massage as long as you ensure that the herbal stamp is not too hot.
Give it a try, and you’ll see that a herbal stamp massage can be a valuable addition to your massage practice!
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