Thai Herbal Compress Course At Zen Shiatsu

Taught by Joe Ingraffia
6 CE hours, $150 + $35 materials
Thai herbal compresses, or Luk Pra Kob, have been used as medicinal treatments in Thailand for over 400 years. These compresses are made from a blend of 12 different medicinal herbs wrapped in cloth. The herbs possess anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and other muscle relaxing properties.
Luk Pra Kob combines heat therapy, herbal therapy, and aromatherapy to promote overall health. Before use, the compresses are steamed to release their essential oils and aromas. The heated compress is then applied to the body to help relieve muscle and tendon inflammation, improve the flow of energy along the body’s meridians, reduce bruising and rashes, and enhance sleep quality.
These hot herbal compresses can be integrated with various treatments, including Shiatsu, Thai massage, Western massage, and other forms of bodywork. Alternatively, they can be used on their own for a full 60-minute treatment without any massage techniques.
In this course, we will examine the major herbs used in Luk Pra Kob, their beneficial properties, and safety considerations. We will practice combining the compress applications with Thai massage techniques to benefit various body areas. The class is accessible for those with no prior knowledge of Thai Bodywork and serves as a great introduction!
Each student will receive their own Thai Herbal Compress. Since the compress is most effective when applied directly to the skin, students should wear dark clothing that allows access to the back and shoulders, along with shorts or loose pants that can be rolled up.