Thai herbal compress massage in Pakenham
Enquire about a Thai herbal compress massage in Pakenham: warm cloth bundles of dried herbs pressed along the body. A local therapist confirms details first.
A Thai herbal compress massage uses cloth bundles filled with dried herbs. The bundles are steamed until warm and then pressed and rolled along the body. The warmth and the scent of the herbs are the main features of the session. Herbs vary between therapists, but lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, kaffir lime and camphor are commonly used.
Your request is passed to a therapist nearby who runs their own practice. They will say whether they use herbal compresses, which herbs go into them, and the cost, timing and suitability. How referrals work is on the about page.
How the compress is used
The compress is usually combined with another style. Some therapists use it at the end of a traditional Thai massage, working over your clothing. Others combine it with an oil massage on a table, where the warm bundle is pressed directly on the skin under draping. The therapist presses the compress onto an area for a moment, lifts it and moves along, often returning to the steamer to keep it warm.
Ask the therapist how they combine the compress with other techniques and whether you will be clothed or draped, so you know what to expect.
Heat and skin sensitivity
The compress is warm and the therapist checks the temperature before it touches you. Tell them straight away if it feels too hot. Heat is not suitable for everyone. Some herbs can irritate sensitive skin, and some people react to the scent.
Tell the therapist before the session if you have:
- sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis, a rash, sunburn or an open wound
- allergies to any plants, spices or fragrances
- reduced feeling in your skin, for example from diabetes or nerve damage
- a heart condition, high or low blood pressure, or a tendency to feel faint in heat
- a blood clotting condition, varicose veins or recent surgery
- a pregnancy, since some therapists do not use heat or certain herbs during pregnancy
- any regular medication
If you are unsure whether heat or herbs are suitable for you, check with your GP first.
What to expect afterwards
The herbs can leave a light scent and some colour on the skin, particularly if turmeric is used. Wear clothing you do not mind getting marked, or ask whether the therapist provides a change of clothes. Have a glass of water and give yourself a moment before getting behind the wheel.
Most people choose it for the warmth and the scent. We make no claim that the herbs have any medical effect.
Requesting a compress session
In the enquiry form, ask for a herbal compress massage and say whether you would like it combined with a traditional or oil massage, how long you would like the session to be, your preferred days and times, your suburb, and any allergies or skin sensitivities. Submitting the form does not book anything. The therapist contacts you to confirm the details.
For more on what happens in a first session, read the first Thai massage guide.