Evaluating the efficacy of Kaempferia Galanga essential oil as a massage medium for accelerating muscle recovery

Recovery following physical exercise is essential for enhancing athletic performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of kencur essential oil (Kaempferia galanga) as a massage medium in accelerating muscle recovery post-exercise. Specifically, the research focused on its potential to reduce lactic acid levels, alleviate muscle soreness, and provide both physical and psychological relaxation. It was hypothesized that kencur essential oil would outperform traditional massage oils due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The method used in this study is an experimental method by giving treatment to three experimental groups of 30 hockey athletes divided into 3 groups. Group A received exercise treatment only, group B received exercise treatment followed by massage with a regular lotion, and group C received exercise treatment followed by massage with kaempferia galanga essential oil lotion. Each group underwent a total of 16 treatment sessions. The results indicated a significant difference in average lactic acid levels among the three groups (p = 0.000; p 0.05), with Group C demonstrating the lowest average lactic acid levels. This suggests that the combination of exercise and massage with kencur essential oil is more effective in reducing lactic acid accumulation in muscles compared to the other treatments. In conclusion, the application of Kaempferia galanga essential oil in massage therapy can significantly accelerate muscle recovery. Future research should explore comparisons with other essential oils, assess the effects across various sports, determine optimal dosing and application methods, and analyze long-term effects and potential side effects. Additionally, it is crucial to investigate muscle recovery biomarkers influenced by this therapy, athletes' acceptance of galangal oil, and the underlying mechanisms that contribute to reduced lactic acid accumulation and muscle fatigue.