Many choices are available when it comes to using essential oils on the body. The suggestion that oils can also be applied to the feet may seem a bit odd. It’s not. Ancient Egyptians practiced a sophisticated level of medicine, and many of the plants which were used are today recognized as beneficial in the treatment of certain diseases.

Essential oils are derived from plants and chosen for their therapeutic qualities. Using them on the feet is beneficial for various reasons. Pores on feet are very large allowing oils to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Skin on the feet is less sensitive and less likely to react to certain oils, which is great for individuals who have naturally sensitive skin. If applied on the soles of the feet, oils can be detected in every cell of the body within 20 minutes. Pure essential oils applied to feet are neither accumulated nor processed by the liver, making them a safe alternative to drugs. Research shows that the mode of application can drastically influence the effect an essential oil has on the body. Combining essential oils (aromatherapy) with foot reflexology provides a synergistic effect that maximizes the healing potential.

Over 4000 years ago, some type of footwork was practiced in Egyptian and Chinese cultures as a tool to encourage good health. Modern footwork (foot reflexology) has been shown to induce relaxation and reduce tension so that the body can heal itself naturally. Applying pressure to specific nerve endings (reflex points) stimulates the corresponding organ, glands, and body systems. Constant and consistent pressure removes toxins (crystal deposits and uric acid) which have settled beneath the skin surface at nerve endings.

From a scientific perspective, foot reflexology follows the understanding that vital energy (also known as ch’i—a form of electricity) circulates throughout the body, permeating every living cell and tissue. If this vital energy becomes blocked or congested due to illness, pain, or stress, the part of the body relating to the blockage is affected. The body is a dynamic energy field and the nervous system its electrical system. Vital energy transferred to nerve pathways during a foot reflexology treatment allows organs and body systems to heal and function more efficiently.

So what does all this have to do with essential oils? Essential oils contain electromagnetic properties which, when combined with foot reflexology, create an electric charge similar to the way an electric switch or circuit works. (Reflex points are basically neural pathways to various organs and body systems.) The electrical charge follows nerve pathways to a break or blockage in the electrical circuits caused by toxins, damaged tissues, or loss of oxygen. To initiate an electrical impulse and disperse blockages, foot reflexology incorporates a series of hand and finger-rolling movements that create a vibrational healing energy which, in turn, carries essential oils along pathways to benefit specific organs or body systems.

For body to be healthy, everything must function in harmony. The therapeutic properties of essential oils and the calming and restorative touch of foot reflexology complement each other in enhancing the healing response. Foot reflexology as both a science and an art serves to relax and normalize all body functions to promote natural balance and revitalize energy. Essential oils, in their pure state, contain significant and immediate anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and hormone-balancing constituents. In a clinical setting, they influence the nervous system in helping to reduce pain, release tension, and elevate mood. And what about those aching, swollen, and tired feet? A soothing tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil foot soak works wonders and feels great before or after a foot reflexology session.

Feet are undoubtedly the most neglected parts of the body. Substantial evidence, however, suggests that taking better care of one’s feet dramatically impacts health and well-being. Whether it’s foot reflexology with or without aromatherapy, consistency and commitment are key. Foot reflexology is not a foot massage and does not diagnose, prescribe or treat disease. But giving feet the tender, loving care they deserve does benefit the entire body.

Your feet and your body will love you for it!

Christel Haase holds a Ph.D. in Holistic Health and Certification in Reflexology from the International Institute of Reflexology. Christel has been practicing the Ingham Method of Foot Reflexology for over 11 years.

Location: Main Street Massage, 4 Walter E. Foran Blvd., Ste. 404, Flemington. To make an appointment or for more information, contact Christel at 908-806-0266 or [email protected].