Originally created in Thailand during the middle ages, the Thai herbal compress has been used for treatments all over the world for centuries. Typically they were used on soldiers returning from battle to get immediate responses to inflammation from wounds and injuries. They were also used for treating soreness and pain from tired, achy muscles and joints.

Now, they are used in many forms around the world. In north America we typically see them being used for personal use as home remedies for treatment of small wounds, inflamed joints or even menstrual cramps. For years, spas in Europe and more recently in North America have been using the power of the herbal compress to lure clients into an ancient world, surrounding them with rich, enticing aromas and deep, moist heat that alleviate stress from everyday living. Massage clinics have also stepped into the world of the compress, using them in Thai massage treatments for removal of toxins during inflammation, improving muscle tone tension, and easing aches and pains from many conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and soft tissue injuries.

In Thailand, the typical compress houses traditional herbs from the gardens of Thailand. These herbs have both medicinal and aesthetic uses. The herbs are taken into the body either topically or by inhalation. The unique drawing properties of each hand picked herb allow for removal of toxins, causing an immediate decrease of inflammation and pain. All three methods allow the medicinal properties of the herbs to have profound effects in body.

There are many ways to create a compress for home remedies within the home. These are typically called poultices because they are applied directly to the skin for deep absoprtion and effectiveness or they can be wrapped in cloth, heated then applied to the skin. A simple way to make a poultice for home would be to choose the herb or substance of choice, like oatmeal for example. Place the herb of choice on a square of material, wrap it up, heat it, and place it on the area for relief. Some poultices can be used for extended periods, like in the case of the Castor oil wrap. These types of wraps can be left on over night. See article on how to make a home made poultice for step by step instructions.

Spas and clinics usually purchase pre-packaged compresses to use in treatments. Spas use them in full body massages, special body treatments, pedicures as well as facials. The facial balls come in a variety of choices with each designed for a specific skin type. The body ball is usually a general recipe but can treat a variety of soft tissue conditions as well as areas of the body. They could use them in many different ways within their practice but most often they are steamed and applied to the client either on the skin directly or through the clothes.

Clinics are an excellent place to find the Thai herbal compress as it works hand in hand with the treatment of almost any condition or injury. The therapist would press the heated compress along the muscles and joints allowing the heat and the effect of the herbs to be absorbed deeply into the tissue. These specially selected herbs have drawing properties that reduce inflammation by removing built up toxins. Clients also benefit from inhaling the intoxicating aroma of the herbs while breathing deeply during the treatment.

This ancient treatment tool has come a long way. The compress is becoming a staple in homes and professional settings around the world. Its uses are abounding and the affects can be astounding.

By Lana Cummings