Ayurvedic Therapeutic Massage Oils
Since ancient times, Ayurvedic healers have recommended massage therapy with application of medicinal oils. This technique was also adopted to some extent in Tibet. The application of the medicated oils differs from the Chinese practice of applying plasters and liniments, in that the former nourish the skin, soothe the underlying flesh, and can be applied over the whole body, while the latter are intended primarily for strong stimulation of blood circulation and alleviation of pain over a relatively small affected area.
The oil base that is most widely recommended is sesame oil, and this is used in making the Herbs From India brand massage oils. According to Lobsang Rapgay (Tibetan Therapeutic Massage, 1986), "Sesame oil has a sweet taste and a mild heating quality. It not only tones up the skin and improves the complexion, it relieves stress and strain. It also increases body energy and strength." Sesame oil has a heavy quality and it differs markedly from some of the oils and lotions that Westerners have come to appreciate-those with light quality that leave little or no greasy residue. However, the sesame oil has unique benefits, and one can gain appreciation for the skin improvements under its heavy influence. It is best to warm the oils before applying them, so that the temperature is comfortable. This is especially important for oils that are intended to invigorate the circulation and relax the muscles. At the end of a massage, a warm wet towel can be pressed onto the skin to help absorb any residual oil.
The massage oils are manufactured by Universal Medicaments in Nagpur, India. The herb formulas involve complex mixtures designed in ancient times that have been relied upon ever since. In general, the selection of herbs is based on the principles of nourishing the skin, promoting better circulation, relaxing the muscles, relieving pain, removing excess heat and toxin, and invigorating the body energy. Each of the oils relies on a slightly different blend of such principles:
Panchagun oil: Used for treating muscle disorders, including aching and pain due to injuries and strains, and muscular weakness, which might arise from chronic disease as well as from injuries.
Chandanbala oil: Used for clearing heat, especially and for toning the muscles. It is used for skin diseases (infections, swellings, irritations), arthritis of the heat type, and for cough due to infection.
Narayan oil: Used in the treatment of stiffness, pain, and atrophy. It is applied for various rheumatic diseases and is especially indicated for aching and stiffness of the waist and legs. It is said to break up obstructions in the circulation and treat atrophy and weakness of the limbs.
Brahmi oil: This is a single herb extract, relying on Bacopa monnieri. It is used in the treatment of nervousness, insomnia, poor memory, graying hair, and stress. It is applied to the head (if one wishes to avoid getting it in the hair, massage the ears and forehead).
The massage techniques for applying the oils can be almost any, but long smooth strokes along the muscles, and circular motions around the joints, are most appropriate for these oils. The oils can be applied by trained massage therapists and or taken home by anyone to be self-applied or applied by another. Some of the herb constituents can stain clothing, so one should be careful about what the oil contacts and about drying off any excess before putting on clothing. There are certain points, such as the Ayurvedic marma points and the acupressure (shiatsu) points that may be chosen as sites for massage with the oil; these points are indicated for treatment of certain disorders. Details of massage techniques are presented by Harish Johari in his book Ayurvedic Massage.
Harish Johari's Ayurvedic Massage
