The “hilot” (massage), an ancient Filipino art of healing used today to relax stressed muscles, is the Filipinos’ answer to the globally booming spa and wellness industry. Traditionally steeped in mysticism and folklore, “hilot” has, for centuries, been known as a healing massage that Filipino households turn to in times of sickness. Today, practitioners of this healing art also emphasise its scientific basis to explain why this type of massage has always been so effective. “Hilot” involves not only massaging, but also the use of herbal therapy. So, “hilot” practitioners are both masseurs and herbalists. They may be called “healers.” A good healer is expected to recognise a person’s illness and its causes by studying the patient and sensing his or her energy. The healer then gives the patient a massage that stimulates the body’s electrical impulses in order to produce the necessary biochemical reactions.
This act will trigger the body’s natural ability to heal itself, which is a reaction that is similar to immunotherapy. A healer may also apply the necessary herbs on a person’s body during a massage. There are several types of “hilot.” The “hilot albularyo” combines long, slow massage strokes with an herbal mixture treatment, which may be applied externally or taken internally. “Hilot buga” uses a hot herbal compress made with various herbs, vegetables, fruits, water, vinegar and oil. This compress is applied externally and is especially used to treat illnesses. The “hilot bintusa” uses cupping or acupressure with materials like glass, with the purpose of removing impurities from one’s body. “Hilot babad” is a massage treatment that is given while the patient is immersed in water. It is used to heal tendon, ligament, joints and muscle injuries. It is advisable not to take a bath within 24 hours after a “hilot” so that the oils can be sufficiently absorbed by the skin.
