What is an Ayurvedic Oil and what are its benefits?

The ancient practice of Ayurveda oil massage can boost health, vitality and beauty in a host of ways

Oil massage has been a vital part of Ayurveda for at least ten thousand years. The first mentions of oil being used therapeutically come from the Charaka Samhita, one of two ancient texts which formed the basis of Ayurveda. This encyclopaedia of medical knowledge was originally written in the eighth century BCE. So, oil massage is far from new!

The text states: ‘Massage is exceedingly beneficial to the skin, so a person should practice it regularly. A body accustomed to oil massage is not liable to be afflicted with injury. By daily oil massage, a body becomes smooth and plump, strong and good looking, while slowing the ageing process.

The classic Ayurveda oils

Various oils are used in Ayurveda in their pure form. The oil you choose will generally depend on your predominant dosha. However other oils can be used for specific health and beauty benefits.

Carrier or base oils are usually extracted from seeds, nuts and kernels; then gently processed so their powers aren’t diluted.

Natural origin oils from ancient original formulations

Ayurveda often adds herbal extracts to base oils to power up and create master healers. These usually come in the form of distilled plant extracts known as {kashayas} or plants mashed into a fine paste known as {kalkans}. The process allows the active ingredients to be absorbed easily through the skin. At Kama Ayurveda there are five ancestral original formulations that will blow your mind and optimise your skin health.

- Kumkumadi Revitalising & Brightening Facial Oil, the most coveted treasure of Ayurveda for a complete youth and radiance revitalization thanks to the powerful properties of saffron.

- Urjasara Hydrating & Replenishing Facial Oil, uses an Ayurvedic preparation known as varneekarana to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. Beautyberry, green cardamom, liquorice, costus and mulaithi are blended with sesame oil.

- Amarrupa Wrinkle-Smoothing Facial Oil recipe made with a timeless blend of 14 botanical extracts to correct wrinkles and improve firmness. Mainly thanks to the ingredient Indian Pennywort that encourages collagen production.

- Bringadi Nourishing & Balancing Treatment Scalp & Hair Oil is the secret of lush, glossy hair – amla, indigo, gooseberry, liquorice, and balloon vine.

- Sugandadhi Reviving & Stress-Relieving Body Oil ideal for body self-massage to relax the mind, silk the skin and invigorate the body. What else could we ask for in an oil?

Body Oils for self-massage with plant-based oils to improve your overall well-being:

Sweet Almond oil

Sweet almond oil is revered in Ayurveda as a tonic for the brain and nervous system. This gentle, sweet, scented oil is believed to help you stay smart and live long. Rich in vitamins A and E, almond oil benefits are wide-ranging but, on a beauty level, we use this lovely oil to smooth hair follicles, help prevent hair loss and to add a gorgeous sheen to the hair. This body oil is tri-Doshic and best for Vata or Vata-Pitta.

Moringa Oil

Moringa oil is known as the ‘Miracle tree’ and it’s easy to see why. It’s absolutely packed with vital nutrients – vitamins A, C, B6 and riboflavin; the minerals iron, magnesium and zinc; essential fatty acids; and a host of antioxidants including quercetin and chlorogenic acid.

Moringa oil can help soothe bone and joint disorders, reducing inflammation, pain and stiffness. It is also a powerful immune booster.

The moringa benefits for skin and hair are legion. It can boost hair growth, nourishing the scalp, and it is a skin warrior, protecting us from pollution and external toxins. This body oil is tri-Doshic and best for Kapha or Kapha-Vata.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is renowned for its cooling properties – the texts say its properties are cooling {śīta} and drying {rukṣana}. Although not as deeply nourishing as sesame, it still feeds the skin and its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties make it ideal for sore, irritated skin and scalps. Unsurprisingly, coconut oil is tailor made for hot, irritable pitta people but also very suitable for the rest of doshas, tri-Doshic. However, it can also be used for all hot, itchy, red conditions. Coconut oil is a true friend in need when your hair is dry, damaged, or sparse.

Oil hacks for health:

· If you feel tired in the morning, massage a little mustard oil into your hands and feet to boost your energy. This is particularly suited to Kapha people.

· Stressed out Pitta types should gently apply a little coconut oil to the top of the head before bed. It helps to dissipate heat, helping you sleep well.

· After brushing your teeth and scraping your tongue, rub one or two drops of sesame oil around your gums. Sesame strengthens bones and teeth and can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

· Oil pulling {gandusha} with coconut oil can help banish harmful bacteria in the mouth, decreasing bad breath, dental plaque, and gum disease.

· Regular head massage can help alleviate headaches.

· Filling the ears with warm (not hot) sesame oil can gently clear wax and support crystal clear hearing.

· Add neem oil to a base oil (sweet almond oil works well) and use as a natural mosquito repellent.