Abhyanga: Ayurvedic Massage Oils & Their Benefits

Nothing relaxes and frees our body from pain, stress, and toxins than a full body massage, and when it is done using warm Ayurvedic oils; the feel, and benefits are next level. Abhyanga – an Ayurvedic body massage uses various oils known as Abhyanga oils. Today we will learn about them and their remarkable benefits and know in detail about the star oil among them.

The Art of Abhyanga – Ayurvedic Self-Care

Indian Ayurveda is the oldest and most widely used system of natural healing. Ayurveda includes a wide range of holistic treatments to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Among its most popular treatments is “Abhyanga” or self-massage, which is an expression of self-love.

Ayurveda’s abhyanga practice seeks harmony and balance between the mind and body through calming and healing techniques. Well-being, peace of mind, sleep, and longevity are enhanced by this proven, excellent, and effective method. There are a number of internal and external benefits that can be achieved through a daily Abhyanga practice, to name a few:

• Nourishment of the Entire Body
• Anti-Aging Effects
• Muscle Tone and Vigor
• Firmness to Limbs
• Joint Lubrication
• Improved Circulation
• Stimulation of Internal Organs
• Detoxification
• Increased Stamina
• Nervous System Calming
• Better Sleep
• Enhanced Vision
• Healthy Hair
• Skin Benefits.
• Balancing Doshas

Often referred to as the “love yourself” massage, this holistic practice involves the application of specific oils on the body from head to toe, through a rhythmic and soothing massage. Its primary purpose is to balance the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), promote circulation, soothe muscles, detoxify the body, promote peaceful sleep, moisturize the skin, relieve stress, lessen tension and anxiety, and nurture the body’s tissues.

The Essence of Abhyanga

Abhyanga or Abhyangam is a self-massage therapy however, the best way to enjoy it is under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic professional who can tailor the massage according to your doshas, health issues, and particular needs and guarantee the most possible advantages.

What makes Abhyanga so therapeutic and beneficial is the oils used in it. Abhyanga oils are massage oils obtained from plants and contain no harmful chemicals or artificial preservatives. Various herbal oils are used in Abhyanga which are slightly heated and applied all over the body using particular techniques, leaving a soothing effect on body, mind, and soul.

Abhyanga Oils: Types & Their Benefits

Abhyanga oils are carefully formulated by infusing other herbs in them to activate their physical and spiritual properties that aid healing and promote overall wellness. Different oils are used based on individual constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalances (Vikriti). Here are some of the key oils employed in Abhyanga and their specific benefits:

1. Sesame Oil (Til Tel)

Sesame oil is the most commonly used oil in Abhyanga. Due to its potent antioxidants, it is in fact used as the foundation oil for various Ayurvedic skin treatments. Its warming and grounding properties make it ideal for Vata imbalances. It nourishes the skin, prevents skin deterioration and UV damage, relieves joint pain, and calms the nervous system.

2. Coconut Oil (Nariyal Tel)

One of the most easily available and used by everyone is coconut oil. It suits newborn babies, the elderly, and any skin type and hence is the most preferred oil when it comes to massage. It is rich in skin-friendly antioxidants and Vitamin E which nourishes and moisturizes skin, especially during winters. Coconut oil is cooling and suitable for Pitta types. It promotes soft and lustrous skin, reduces inflammation, and aids in detoxification. Massaging with coconut oil can also help prevent wrinkles and sagging, reduce acne scars, treat dry, flaky skin, and shield the skin from pollution.

3. Mustard Oil (Sarson Tel)

Mustard oil is known for its heating or warming properties, making it beneficial for Kapha types. Its warming effect proves to be extremely beneficial in relaxing stiff muscles, relieving muscular tension, and soothing joint pain. It stimulates blood circulation, loosens mucus, and also helps in weight management.

4. Specialized Herbal Oils (Taila)

Ayurvedic herbal oils, like Brahmi or Ashwagandha oil, are customized for specific concerns. They address issues such as hair loss, insomnia, and stress, in addition to providing the benefits of a standard Abhyanga. Tailas are specifically formulated for certain conditions to mention a few:

Dhanwantharam Thailam:

Relieves muscle cramps, soreness, and swelling.

Balaswagandhadi Thailam:

Tones nerves, strengthens muscles, and enhances nerve transmission.

Pinda Thailam:

Effective for arthritis and related discomfort.

Sahacharadi Thailam:

Reduces sciatica and back pain.

Mahanarayana Thailam:

Relaxes muscles after intense workouts.

Mahamasha Thailam:

Boosts nerve function and reduces numbness.

5. Castor Oil (Arandi Tel)

Nothing can match the power of castor oil as Abhyanga oil for body massage because of its power-packed benefits. Castor is such a versatile oil that has been used for ages from head to toe for all kinds of problems be it skin, hair, or health. Castor oil’s anti-inflammatory properties make it the best among other Abhyanga oils for body massage.

Bone disorders; arthritis-related pain, stiffness, and limited movement; minor cuts and bruises; dry, sunburnt skin prone to acne; low lymphocyte production – a beneficial immune system component, no matter what you are struggling with, a massage with castor oil will set them all right.

Benefits of Massaging Castor Oil for Skin

• Moisturizes dry skin naturally
• Helps reduce acne breakouts
• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
• Ensures stretch marks don’t appear and reduces their appearance

Benefits of Massaging Castor Oil for Hair

• Promotes hair growth and reduces hair fall
• Nourish hair follicles and strengthen hair

Benefits of Massaging Castor Oil for Health

• Relieves constipation
• Reduces joint inflammation and relieves muscle pain
• Stimulates lymphocytes, which are immune system cells
• Castor oil packs, when applied to the skin over the liver area, help the liver eliminate toxins from the body

Although castor oil is known for its benefits on the overall body, it may not suit everyone, hence it is advised to do a patch test before using it and must be only bought from a trusted source like us, Ambuja Solvex which is known to be the manufacturer of 100% pure organic castor oil.

In a Nutshell,

There is no greater expression of self-love than massaging your full body using natural and herbal oils which is not just the most effective but, even affordable way to relax your mind, body, and soul, compared to the expensive spa packages. Abhyanga is not a difficult practice but getting it done from a professional will help you gain its full benefits.

So, check your dosha, grab your oil, and start practicing Abhyanga because self-love and care are important.