The healing power of oil in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, oil is seen as much more than just a care product. The Sanskrit word Sneha Because "oil" means not only "oil," but also "love" and "nurture." Every time you apply oil to yourself, you literally nourish your body and give it a sense of security.
Oil in the Classical Texts
“Sneho 'nuvarti deham snehayati cha mano 'pi”
— Charaka Samhita“Oil penetrates the body and also calms the mind.”
According to Ayurvedic wisdom, oil is not only a physical lubricant, but also a subtle carrier of peace, love and vitality.
How does oil work?
- It works as phytotherapy through the skin: nutrients from herbs and plants are absorbed directly into the bloodstream, thus relieving the burden on the digestive system.
- It gives balance and relaxation: mainly Vata dosha comes to rest; the body becomes more flexible and the mind calmer.
- It helps detoxify: oil helps ama (waste products) to be released and removed through circulation and lymph.
Taila's, medicinal oils
In Ayurveda, herbs are carefully processed into oil through taila preparationTaila comes from the word "til," which means sesame. The base is sesame oil. This involves boiling plants in oil (often with herbal decoction and paste), which gives the oil a deeply therapeutic effect.
Examples of classic taila's:
- Mahanarayan taila → relieves pain, stiffness and joint complaints
- Bhringaraj taila → strengthens hair and scalp
- Dhanvantaram taila → supports recovery, vitality and balance
Ghee and oil in food
Oil also plays a key role in the kitchen. Ghee (clarified butter) is considered one of the purest forms of fat: easily digestible, nourishing to all tissues and able to stimulate the subtle channels (srotas) to open.
In the classical texts, ghee is even praised as “Amrita” – nectar of the gods – because it renews and rejuvenates both body and mind.
Oil in Ayurvedic treatments
The most traditional massage in Ayurveda is the Abhyanga, a full body massage with warm oil.
Many people experience during this treatment:
- a feeling of warmth and security,
- as if a soft blanket is wrapped around them,
- relaxation deep into the muscles and joints,
- and a renewed balance in the energy flows (prana).
Self-care as a daily ritual
According to Ayurveda, oiling your body daily is an act of self-love. It strengthens your immune system, calms your nervous system, and makes you feel more connected to yourself.
