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As the oil heats a crackling sound is heard - this is the water boiling off. When the crackling stops the oil has
reached the correct temperature. Allow the oil to cool. It is now ripened and can be stored in a suitable
container for up to one month. Re-ripen if stored for longer.
How to carry out your own Ayurvedic oil massage:
Carry out your daily oil massage in a warm, comfortable room and heat the oil to body temperature before
applying to the body (either place a small amount of oil in a small stainless steel bowl and warm over a candle
burner or place the glass/plastic oil container in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes before use).
Start by using coconut oil on the face and scalp, paying particular attention to the ears. Slow, gentle strokes are
preferable. Sesame oil is used for the rest of the body. Start with the arms, paying particular attention to the
hands and fingers. Next massage the front of the body with slow, gentle strokes over the abdomen. The back is
somewhat more awkward but do what you can reach – use the backs of your hands to cover more area. Massage
the buttocks and legs finishing with the feet (give a little extra time and attention here).
As a rule, circular massage strokes are used over joints and long sweeping movements along the arm/leg bones.
Five or ten circles/long strokes per area should be given depending on the time available. For even greater
therapeutic effects a few drops of essential oil may be added to your massage oil. We recommend no more than
10 drops of lavender, cederwood, sandalwood, patchouli, ylang ylang or frankincense per 100ml of massage oil.
It is beneficial to keep the oil on the skin for at least twenty minutes before showering. Water should be warm
rather than hot and soap should be used sparingly to allow a residue of oil to remain on the skin.
Sesame oil’s highly medicinal, therapeutic effects are probably due to its high linoleic content which has anti-
bacter ial, anti-in flammator y, an ti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. However, if you find sesame oil too
heating coconut oil, olive oil or sunflower can applied instead.
“The body of one who uses oil massage regularly does not become affected much even if subjected to accidental
injuries, or strenuous work. By using oil massage daily, a person is endowed with pleasant touch, trimmed body
parts and becomes strong, charming and least affected by old age.”
Charaka Samhita Vol. 1, V: 88-8 9