Herbal compress is a common method of treatment employed in traditional Thai medicine.

The hot herbal compress contains numerous herbs tightly bound in fabric which is steamed until piping hot and firmly rolled. After a full-body, pressure point Thai massage, the hot herbal compess is pressed or pounded over the entire body in order to soothe muscle and stimulate the vital organs and senses.

Compresses are traditionally applied after Thai Massage to prevent bruising, reduce muscle stress and cure skin conditions.

Benefits of hot herbal compress

• Relief from general muscular aches, pains and tension
• Helps to improve and stimulates the lymphatic system
• Increases blood flow and circulation

The contents of the hot herbal compress are prescribed according to the condition being treated, with some of the most commonly used herbs being:

• Zedoary (Khamin oi)
• Turmeric (Khamin chan)
• Lemongrass (takhrai)
• Kaffir lime (Makrut)
• Camphor tree (Naat)
• Tamarind (Makham)
• Plai (scientific name : Zingiber cassumar)