A faint scent of galangal wafts within the air, adopted by the refined aroma of turmeric. Unusually, I’m not in a kitchen however face down on a therapeutic massage mattress on the Rosewood Phnom Penh’s Sense Spa, eagerly anticipating what’s going to occur subsequent.
I hear the therapist’s footsteps then really feel the rounded, deliciously heat natural poultice on my again – a sensation much like that of a sizzling stone therapeutic massage however with a a lot softer contact. The warmth slowly however absolutely unlocks the knots and relieves the stress in my shoulders. The intoxicating scent of the expertly picked Khmer herbs provides a distinct dimension and lulls me into leisure much more.
Up to now, this specific remedy was largely reserved for males who got here residence from battle. Contained in the poultice, one can discover recent ponlei (a relative of galangal and ginger) which is claimed to heal wounds. There’s additionally Cambodian Flower of Salt, which is chosen for its antiseptic properties, in addition to turmeric that’s extensively recognized to assist soothe one’s pores and skin. These key elements are combined with different barks, roots and crops which might be later steamed earlier than the remedy. The nice and cozy poultice is then gently compressed to areas of the physique with deep muscle pressure.