The practice of applying poultices to the body dates back to medieval times, where it was used to achieve medical results in curing injuries. Poultices were made of a moist material like mud, mixed with a healing ingredient such as herbs or oils. Over the years, they have become more sophisticated, with the herbal mixture enveloped in a muslin bag and steamed, and sometimes combined with ancient therapies and products to create a relaxing and effective spa treatment.
“The poultice massage is incredibly effective due to the synergy of therapeutic techniques administered during a treatment. Moist penetrating heat, detoxifying bio-available herbs, energising essential oils and Thai Meridian point massage combine to create an intoxicating experience. The muscles are softened, the breath moves freely, the mind is relaxed and the entire body feels cleansed and rejuvenated,” says Jenny Farrand, spa director at The Inn at Perry Cabin, USA.
The Observatory Hotel, Sydney, Australia
The Day Spa at The Observatory Hotel offers The Poultice Therapy Experience, which combines the use of a hot poultice with Kahuna – the ancient Hawaiian art of massage. The smooth, free flowing strokes of Kahuna are combined with heat therapy from the poultice to ease tired, overworked muscles and joints. This treatment is exclusive to The Observatory Hotel and has been designed to relax and soothe the body from stress and tension, but also as a lymphatic treatment that flushes away unwanted toxins. Two therapists are used and the body literally surrenders and reaches a state of relaxation that can’t be found in any other treatment. The Poultice Therapy Experience is 75 minutes long and costs AU$225 (approx. £103*).
La Residence Phou Vao, Luang Prabang, Laos
The Spa at La Residence Phou Vao offers the Mohom Indigo treatment, derived from the ancient healing art of Hmong shamans, who used it to treat muscular pains and aches. Indigo, the symbol of the Buddha of Medicine, is said to improve muscular tonicity and drain away toxins. During the treatment, a steamed indigo herbal poultice is filled with pure remedial ingredients, and is then used to massage the body. Eucalyptus, clove, black pepper and essential oils are also used within the poultice, dissolving away muscular tension, leaving the body in stillness and harmony. A deep tissue massage then follows, which loosens muscle tissue and stimulates blood circulation. The Mohom Indigo treatment is 90 minutes long and costs US$48 (approx. £24*).
The Inn at Perry Cabin, Chesapeake Bay, USA
The Linden Spa has specifically created the Bayberry Prosperity Poultice as a treatment for the relief of varicose veins. Bayberry is a remedial garden herb that has been used for centuries to strengthen blood vessels. It is prepared by heating the Bayberry roots and bark, which allows them to reach their full potency, and they are then applied via a poultice to the varicose veins. As an added benefit, legend tells us that luck and prosperity come to those who are touched by bayberry. The Bayberry Prosperity Poultice is 45 minutes long and costs US$75 (approx. £37*).
Maroma Resort & Spa, Riviera Maya, Mexico
At the hotel’s spiritual Kinan Spa, a Hot Poultice Massage is offered, using local medicinal herbs and essential oils. These are carefully collected and prepared by hand, then wrapped in organic cotton and steamed, intensifying their potency. The poultice is then massaged into the body while warm, opening the pores, releasing tension, and improving circulation. A dynamic oil massage completes this healing treatment. The Hot Poultice Massage is 105 minutes long and costs US$225 (approx. £113*).
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*The sterling price guide is based on the exchange rate at the time of going to press, but the final price will depend on the exchange rate at the time of booking.
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Vicky Legg
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Orient-Express Hotels
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Fax: 020 7921 4193
Email: vicky.legg@orient-express.com
Louise Toye
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Orient-Express Hotels
Tel: 020 7921 4069
Fax: 020 7921 4193
Email: louise.toye@orient-express.com
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