I learned about it a few months ago from the massage therapist at a local full service salon. The members of my thoughtful extended family all gave me gift certificates to the same salon for my birthday last year. I was able to use them to get a massage a month for four months. I tried some new things, aroma therapy, hot stone, and stretching. I'm thoroughly addicted to the stretching now, but I didn't find the hot stone worth the cost.Olbas oil is a product of Switzerland containing a mix of six essential oils; peppermint, eucalyptus, cajeput, wintergreen, juniper and clove. I don't think I'd care for some of these on their own, but mixed in this formula they are wonderful. It has a penetrating, rather menthol-like scent, slightly tempered by the more earthy oils in the mix.
The masseuse uses it for facial massages where it yields a much more relaxing effect than an unscented oil.
I like to use it to soothe sore muscles (especially my sore neck and back) and I love the way it eases the discomfort of headaches. I put it on my temples and forehead when I feel the pain coming on.After a recent amusement park injury, I used it in combination with Icy Hot to relax my sore neck. I won't be riding any roller coasters for a long time, if ever again!
The packaging claims the product provides "instant relief for colds, flu and allergies". I know it helps clear the airway so I can see how it would make breathing easier, but I'm not sure how else it would help with a flu.
The masseuse told me she also flicks a few drops into the air vents in her car. That sounds appealing to me, especially when the air conditioning is on, but I'll abstain as I don't believe Rick would appreciate that too much.
