Herbal Massage Ball story
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Thai Herbal Ball Massage
As its name suggests, the massage technique originates from Thailand. The technique is called Luk Pra Kob and translates as “herbal pressing sphere.” The treatment was first used by Buddhist monks during the 14th century to treat injured soldiers returning from battle. The Thai herbal ball massage method uses an herb mix wrapped in cheesecloth (aka thai herbal compress balls). It is then steam-heated which draws the essential oils out of the herb mixture. The treatment is rubbed onto the skin during the massage. This brings relief to aching muscles, helps to heal bruising, and soothes the skin. Alternatively, it could be placed directly on the body’s sore spots. Doing this helps the body absorb the alkaloids from the herb mix. The 6 basic ingredients for a Thai herbal compress ball are lemongrass, prai, turmeric, kaffir lime, camphor, and tamarind leaves. The herbal compress ball can be used all over the body including the face. These herbs all have anti-inflammatory, astringent, anti-oxidant, and anti-microbial properties that help restore the body’s health. The herbs are aromatic and add to the whole massage experience. It can be described as indulgent and healing. The herbal ball massage is a popular treatment in Thailand. Depending on where you live, you might be able to get a Thai herbal massage at your local massage parlor, high-end spas or wellness centers.
Benefits
Like most touch-based healing modalities, Thai herbal ball massage benefits the mind and the body by providing relaxation and pain relief. Aside from these two, here are additional benefits.
1. Helps heal bruised, sore muscles and ligaments. The herbal balls release its essential oils and medicinal properties which penetrate the skin.
2. Relaxation and relief to recharge your energies. The combination of touch therapy and the soothing scents of aromatherapy create a calming effect.
3. Improves lymph drainage and blood circulation.
4. Cleans, heals and strengthens the skin.
5. Aids in healing upper respiratory ailments. The herbal ball can be customized to address respiratory ailments like bronchitis, the common cold, asthma, and sinus congestion to name a few.
Ingredients
Ginger
The herbal compress uses zedoary, prai, and turmeric. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger help to lower prostaglandin, a chemical in the body responsible for pain and inflammation.
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Lemongrass
Relieves swelling and reduces fevers. It also has antioxidant properties and has a fragrant citrusy smell.
Tamarind leaves
Also have anti-inflammatory properties and help to heal wounds faster. Tamarind leaves have an exfoliating effect as well, giving your skin a refreshed and glowing look.
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Mangosteen
Has antioxidant properties and is rich in tannins. Tannins are natural compounds found in fruit and vegetables that help heal skin or irritation such as eczema.
Other ingredients
Other items you will need include cinnamon, camphor (oil or powder), essential oils (peppermint, eucalyptus, sandalwood or similar), orange peel, and sweet basil. These also have medicinal properties but are added for the scent and aromatherapy effect. Salt and rice powder are also added to act as a preservative and binder.
Steamer
The Thai herbal ball steamer is used to keep the herbal compress at the right temperature. The herbal compress balls are placed in the steamer to steam-heat for 30 to 45 minutes. This rehydrates the herbs, brings out the essential oils, and makes the medicinal components more potent. The steamer also keeps the herbal compress balls consistently warm with its built-in heating plate.