August 17, 2025

Massage oils - the effectiveness of Ayurveda

6.03 In Ayurveda, massage (abhyanga) plays a key role in body care, relaxation, and maintaining harmony between body, mind, and soul. Ayurvedic cosmetics use a wealth of natural plant oils that nourish the skin, support detoxification, and improve overall well-being. Here are the most popular oils used in Ayurvedic massages: Popular Ayurvedic massage oils: In Ayurveda, massage (abhyanga) plays a key role in body care, relaxation, and maintaining harmony between body, mind, and soul. Ayurvedic cosmetics use a wealth of natural plant oils that nourish the skin, support detoxification, and improve overall well-being. Below are detailed descriptions of the most popular oils used in Ayurvedic massages, along with data from scientific research: Sesame oil Sesame oil is one of the most commonly used oils in Ayurveda. It has warming, nourishing and detoxifying properties. Studies have shown that sesame oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help improve skin health and overall well-being. Regular use in massage can help reduce stress, improve circulation and nourish the skin. Coconut oil Coconut oil has a cooling effect and is great for dry and irritated skin. It is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Studies suggest that coconut oil can help moisturize the skin, improve its elasticity and have anti-inflammatory effects. It is especially recommended for those with the Pitta dosha, which is characterized by "heat." Almond oil Almond oil is light and rich in vitamins E and A. It deeply moisturizes, smoothes the skin and improves its elasticity. Studies indicate that almond oil can be effective in relieving the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis, as well as in reducing scars. Its regular use can help improve the condition and appearance of the skin. Neem oil Neem oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties. It is used for skin conditions such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. Studies have shown that neem oil has antibacterial effects against various skin pathogens and can aid in wound healing. Its use in massage can help cleanse the skin and reduce inflammation. Bhringraj oil Bhringraj oil is known for its hair strengthening properties. When used for scalp massage, it can promote hair growth, reduce hair loss and improve overall hair condition. Studies suggest that bhringraj extracts can stimulate hair follicles and have an anti-inflammatory effect on the scalp. Regular use of this oil can contribute to healthier and stronger hair. Ashwagandha oil Ashwagandha oil strengthens the body, reduces stress, and supports muscle recovery. Ashwagandha, also known as "Indian ginseng," has adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and improve overall well-being. A massage with this oil can benefit both the body and mind. Tulsi Oil (Asian Basil) Tulsi oil has cleansing, antiseptic, and calming properties. It is valued for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that tulsi may support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and act as a natural antibacterial agent. Its use in massage can help cleanse the skin and promote relaxation. Mahanarayan oil Mahanarayan oil is a traditional Ayurvedic blend of many herbs and oils used for muscle and joint pain and general fatigue. Its ingredients have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and regenerative properties. Studies on the individual components of this oil suggest their potential benefits in reducing inflammation and pain. Massage with Mahanarayan oil can provide relief from musculoskeletal ailments. Choosing the right Ayurvedic massage oil depends on your individual needs and your dominant dosha. Regular use of these oils in massage can bring numerous health benefits to both body and mind. The most popular types of Ayurvedic massages: Abhyanga – Full body massage with warm sesame or coconut oil. Improves circulation, detoxifies the body, relaxes and nourishes the skin. Shirodhara – This involves slowly pouring warm oil (e.g. sesame or ashwagandha) onto the forehead, which helps calm the mind, relieve stress and improve the quality of sleep. Udvartana – A detoxifying and slimming massage using herbal powders and oils that improves circulation, removes toxins and smoothes the skin. Pinda Sweda – Massage with hot herbal bags (e.g. soaked in Mahanarayan oil), used for muscle and joint pain. Marma – A gentle massage of energy points (marmas), similar to acupressure points, performed with sesame or neem oil, supporting the flow of energy and reducing tension. Shiroabhyanga – Head massage with warm bhringraj or coconut oil, supporting hair growth, reducing stress and tension. Pada Abhyanga – Foot massage with sesame oil, which has a calming effect, improves the quality of sleep and brings relief to tired legs. Gandharva – Sound massage, performed in combination with a gentle oil massage, which harmonizes the body and mind. Which oils for which dosha? Vata (dryness, coldness, instability): Sesame oil, almond oil, ashwagandha – have a warming, moisturizing and calming effect. Pitta (warmth, sensitivity, emotionality): Coconut oil, sunflower oil, neem oil – cool and soothe irritations. Kapha (dampness, heaviness, slowness): Mustard, eucalyptus, lemongrass oils – stimulate, warm and cleanse. Ayurvedic oils and massages are not only body care, but also deep care for the mind and soul, bringing harmony and well-being. Ayurvedic facial massage (Mukha Abhyanga) is an important part of skin care. It uses oils such as rose, sandalwood and almond, which nourish, moisturize and tone the skin. Massage improves blood circulation, firms the skin, reduces muscle tension and delays the aging process, making it a natural way to look radiant. Head massage (Shiroabhyanga) is one of the most popular Ayurvedic practices. It uses oils such as bhringraj, coconut and sesame. This massage strengthens hair follicles, improves their condition, reduces stress, relieves tension and promotes better sleep. Regularly performed, it has a beneficial effect on mental and physical health, harmonizing the flow of energy in the body.

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December 19, 2020

SIKH - MEET PEOPLE FROM INDIA

Sikhs - we meet more and more often on Polish streets. Men in turbans looking exotic and foreign, but there is nothing to be afraid of. They are wonderful people. As you know, before I created the Orientana brand, I spent a lot of time in India, mainly learning the principles of Ayurveda, which I used in my natural cosmetics. In this post I would like to tell you about Sikhs. For me, they are a very interesting religious and social group that I had the opportunity to meet in India. In Poland, we know little about them and I have noticed that they are often confused with Muslims. So if you ever see a man in a turban, be sure that it is a Sikh. In India they are not a very large group, only about 2% of the population, but they are most recognizable precisely because of the turban, thick mustache and beard. I have met several Sikhs, they are educated people with an open mind and heart. It is the Sikh who is responsible for maintaining the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) ISO standards that apply to the production of natural cosmetics in the factory in India, where we produce only part of our cosmetics. I asked him to tell me about his religion and explain who the Sikhs are. WHO ARE THE SIKHS? WHO IS THE MAN IN THE TURBAN? Sikhs come from Punjab and in their language, Sikh means disciple. Although most Sikhs live in India, they are not Hindus. Sikhism is the fifth largest religion, with 25 million followers worldwide. Sikhs believe in one God, equality, freedom of religion, and social service. They cover their hair, which they haven’t cut since childhood, with a colorful turban. The turban is a commitment to equality and justice. Sikhism emphasizes the equality of all men and women, which I really like. Sikhs believe in three basic principles: meditating on the existence of God (prayer), earning a living in an honest way (industriousness), and sharing the fruits of one’s labor with others (charity). SIGH WILL HELP EVERYONE It was this charity that I liked so much about the Sikhs. I saw it with my own eyes in India. When I visited their temple in Delhi, called a gurdwara, I noticed a large group of people sitting at the side of the temple, as if waiting for something. It turned out they were pilgrims and the needy, waiting for a meal. The temple serves meals to the poor every day and everyone is involved in this work. At each gurdwara, huge kitchens and places are built where people eat what volunteers have cooked for them. Everyone can enter the kitchen and watch the process of preparing free meals, but they can also join in the action and help another person selflessly. I observed people who even came with their children and joined in preparing the dough or rolling out huge amounts of roti. A meal will be served to anyone who needs it, regardless of religion or background. Anyone can come to the gurdwara and everyone will receive support. At the appropriate time, those waiting are let into the huge dining hall, wash their hands, sit cross-legged on the floor and patiently wait for their food. A Sikh walks among the people with a huge pot and ladle, pouring lentil soup for everyone, while another hands out hot roti flatbreads. The community kitchen is a symbol of equality and brotherhood. Believe me, it is impressive. I got shivers down my spine. FOR A SIKH ALL ARE EQUAL Equality is of the utmost importance to Sikhs. Their religion rejects all distinctions based on caste, creed, sex, colour, race or national origin. All are equal and should be treated equally. For Sikhs, God is not found in isolation or through renunciation of the world, but is attained as an active member of the family and a member of one's community. SIKHISM RECOGNIZES THE EQUALITY OF WOMEN AND MEN The Sikhs’ treatment of women is interesting. The Sikh faith considers women equal to men and defines God as gender neutral. It is one of the few religions in the world that does this. There is no activity in a gurdwara or in a Sikh community that is permissible for a man but not for a woman. There is no religious function that prevents women from performing it at any time. SIKHS WORK HARD Sikhism is a practical religion, and Sikhs are pragmatic people. In their community, the emphasis is on leading a hard-working, successful life, and the achievements and successes of others are highly valued. And these people, thanks to their education and hard work, are able to work out a very successful life and high social status. However, they always remember others, those in need, and support them as much as they can. Cooperation for peace and harmony in the world is also important. If you meet a Sikh on the street (there are already 5,000 of them living in Poland) remember this post and smile. Sikhs are peaceful people who are very tolerant, honest and nice.

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