Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, places significant emphasis on the balance of body, mind, and spirit to maintain health and wellness, and massage (Abhyanga) with specific oils is a key aspect of this practice. During winter season body become dry and brittle because of the vata dosha dominants. Oil massage is beneficial for pacifying the vata. The use of oils in Ayurveda first mentioned by Acharya charka in charka Samhita, which is the primary reference text in Ayurveda. Mostly the ayurvedic skin treatments are doing in winter season because skin become dry and brittle. The best way to use the ayurvedic oil is that applying to our skin. This allows for deep tissue penetration and the body can then heal through the medicinal herbs. Once applied on the skin help balance our doshas.
Oils for Each Doshas
- Vata Dosha – Tilataila can help balance Vata dosha problems like- arthritis, etc.; it helps improve the flow of Prana Vayu throughout the body and strengthens the body. For neurological issues and mental health problems, Brahmi is the best.
- Pitta Dosha – Pitta dosha is treated with cooling, and calming oils, like Narikela taila, Putiha taila, etc. Narikela taila is most suitable for pitta problems; it cools down the body and also heats up the body as per the pitta level. Pitta also causes dryness in the body, so people can also use dharu taila, Chandana taila, Terumi taila, etc.
- Kapha Dosha – Sarsapataila and Eranda taila are the ideal one for Kapha Dosha. Ayurveda recommends warm oils for the Kapha Dosha for to manage the excessive fat in the body. People should also avoid oily foods to reduce fat in the body.
Benefits of Oil Winter Massages
- Moisturizes Dry Skin- Oils penetrate deeply to nourish and moisturize.
- Improved Circulation – Enhances blood flow, aiding in warming the body.
- Joint Health and Flexibility – Warm oils can reduce Vata-related pain.
- Reduces Stress: Promotes relaxation and mental calmness.
- Improves Sleep: Helps in reducing insomnia, common in Vata imbalances
Now here are some ayurvedic skin treatment with oils
Ayurvedic skin treatment by using the Oils
- NARIKELA TAILA – it is wonderful as a face cleanser, moisturizer and sun screen, but also it can treat many skin disorders. The fatty acids in coconut oil reduce inflammation internally and externally and moisturize, making them a great solution for all types of skin conditions. Coconut Oil also has antimicrobial properties, which may be beneficial for skin health.
- TILATAILA – Charaka recommends sesame oil to keep skin fresh and natural. Sesame oil is also used in cooking and provides many nutrients to the body. it is an anti-fungal and antiseptic oil that prevents premature skin aging. Tilataila contains vitamin E, amino acids and lecithin and is suitable for all skin types except red and irritated skin. Tilataila is used for rheumatoid arthritis and eliminates scabies, ringworm and other fungal skin infections. Tilataila is rich in antioxidant properties. It helps provide deep nourishment to the skin, preventing dryness and flakiness. Tilataila is additionally recognized as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, signifying its ability to assist in reducing inflammation. Tilataila is known for its warming effect on the body and is believed to aid in reducing muscle pain, cough, and cold. This can be especially soothing during the cold winter months.
- SARSAPATAILA – It possesses Kapha balancing and Ushna (hot) properties. These attributes play a role in alleviating cold symptoms when applied externally to the chest and back. It has a heating effect on the body. Sarsapataila is often used in traditional medicine for its potential to relieve joint and muscle pain. The oil has high levels of vitamin E, which helps improve skin health. It can help protect the skin against free radical damage from ultraviolet light and pollution, and can even help reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, when rubbed into the skin, the vitamin E in the oil can help promote circulation and immunity
- BHRINGRAJ TAILA – This oil is renowned for strengthening and smoothing hair. It also promotes blood circulation and helps make hair healthier. Bhringraj oil can also be beneficial for the skin, particularly in soothing dry and flaky scalp, which can be a problem in winter.
- MAHANARAYANA TAILA – It is a therapeutic oil used to treat muscle and joint pain. Excess Vata in old age can lead to difficulties in movements. Through regular Abhyanga massage using Mahanarayana Tailem, the vitiated Vata can be pacified, providing lasting relief from joint stiffness and muscular tiredness
- SHADBINDU TAILA – It is a medicinal oil used for nasal installation to balance Kapha in the head and treat sinusitis. Helps to reduce severe pain in the head and feeling of sensitivity to light. Reduces the irritation and swelling of the mucous membrane in the nose. It Prevents falling of hair, hair thinning. Gives strength to the hair roots and teeth useful in the treatment of alopecia. Prevents early teeth fall. Improves vision, eyesight. Gives strength to the shoulders and thus useful in cervical spondylosis, neck stiffness, pain and shoulder stiffness.
- BRAHMI TAILA – It is a very potent medicinal oil. It is used to treat severe headaches, stress, anxieties, etc.
- PINDA THAILAM – This is an excellent for extremely dry skin. Panda tailam is made using herbs like Manjista, sariba etc in bee wax and Tila tailam. This fortified oil extremely beneficial for dry skin, improves blood circulation, and reduces joint pain, cures skin diseases and crack foot. Pinda taila softens the skin and keep it moist throughout the day.
- ELADI KERAM – Oil is fortified with the qualities of drugs in Eladi gana of classics. Best remedy for skin diseases and skin allergies. Improves complexion, reduces bacterial and fungal infections. Excellent oil for dandruff. Moisture and nourishes the skin and helps the skin to perform its protective function.
- TRIPHALADI KERAM – Greatly advised to treat dandruff and skin related problems. Good for eyes when used as hair oil. Protects the skin from allergies (bacteria and fungi). Used for body massage in combinations with other oils.
- CASTOR OIL – It is heavier and can be very nourishing for dry, cracked skin that is common in winter. However, it should be used in moderation as it is quite thick and can clog pores if used excessively. It has multiple applications and is one of the best for overall health and well-being.
- Ashwagandha Oil – The use of Ashwagandha taila in the conditions like disorders of vata, Mamsa kshaya (muscle wasting), Raktapitta, Asrgdara, Yonivikars etc. Ashwagandha is a proven adoptogen, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and contains vital nutrients. These properties in Ashwagandha may help to reduce anxiety, stress and may help to improve quality of sleep. Ashwagandha may help to boost the levels of testosterone in males. Ashwagandha may help to increase body weight, build endurance, increase muscle mass