The use of massage oil is not a new idea. Homer, Plato, Socrates ? all of these men referenced the use of massage oil as an aid for pain relief in their writings. Today, pain relief is one reason for using massage oil. Others include the facilitation of more gliding massage, skin nourishment, and the promotion of good health in general.

How do you choose a massage oil for massage therapy? First, choose an oil that is cold-pressed or expeller-pressed. Both of these have had the least amount of processing and will last longest. Prevent them from spoiling by keeping them in a cool place and adding 300 IUs of vitamin E per pint of oil monthly. In addition, essential oils, or oils that are distilled from various plants, roots, or seeds) can be added. Seek the aid of a professional to advise on a good combination.

Some oils to choose from for massage therapy include:

* Sweet almond oil ? Anti-inflammatory, light, and good for most skin types, especially dry skin.

* Apricot kernel oil ? Reduces stress, provides balance, and good for all skin types, especially prematurely aging skin.

* Avocado oil ? This is a heavy oil best diluted at a rate of 10% in a lighter oil.

* Borage oil ? Good for eczema and psoriasis, it penetrates, regenerates, and stimulates.

* Castor oil ? A thick sticky oil good for drawing out toxins and for use on scar tissue. Best used in a poultice.

* Coconut oil ? A thick, heavy oil that should be warmed before use. Good for cracked skin.

* Emu oil ? Anti-inflammatory and used for arthritis, sore muscles, bruising, and eczema. May block pores.

* Grapeseed oil ? Non-allergenic and good for all types of skin.

* Jojoba oil ? A penetrating, anti-bacterial oil for eczema and acne.

* Kukui nut oil ? Anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory that is light and has a slight warming effect.

* Olive oil ? Has a warming effect and relieves stiffness.

Different skin types will fare better with different types of oil. As such, it will be a good idea to experiment with different kinds for massage therapy. If one doesn't work, try another. Also, some may personally prefer the smell or the effects of one massage oil to another. The selection of massage oils is pretty wide; so there is bound to be a preferred one for just about anybody.