Is milk necessary according to ayurveda? Does ayurveda recommend milk or not? The straightforward answer is yes for mother’s milk up to 24 months and no for animal’s milk for regular consumption. In Ashtanga Hridaya, Vagbhata explains three stages of life according to milk consumption:
Nowadays, people have started eating multiple times a day. Let’s see what ayurveda recommends. Ayurveda has two provisions for mealtimes. It recommends:
Eating Once Daily – One meal a day diet plan.
Eating Twice Daily – Two meals a day diet plan.
So, you need to choose which plan is best for you. It is entirely your own choice. In addition, ayurvedic texts also suggest eating whenever you feel appetite and drinking water whenever you feel thirsty. Therefore, if you are not hungry, you should skip the meal. You should eat food at the next scheduled mealtime.
Eating Once Daily – One meal a day
Sushruta Samhita explains this diet plan.
When to Eat
If you follow the One meal a day diet plan, Sushruta Samhita describes the different eating times according to the difference between day and night hours (seasons).
Because Pahar time change according to sunrise and sunset each day, you need to check it in each season and your place of living.
During Long Nights and Short Days, Days’ Pahar are shorter.
During Short Nights and Long Days, Days’ Pahar are longer.
During Equal Nights and Equal Days, Days’ Pahar are equal.
Therefore, nowadays, it might not be practicable for all. The time should remain the same. So, your body clock adjusts accordingly.
Which time should be best for one mealtime?
In my opinion, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm is the best time for one mealtime. It fits almost every season. You should fix a time to eat the main meal.
The main meal consists of everything you want to eat in a day including fruits, vegetables, intact whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, etc.
Indications
One meal a day diet plan is best for people:
People who want more mental clarity and have a goal to achieve a high level of spiritual insight.
People who are suffering from Lifestyle Disorders and Kapha Disease.
Lifestyle disorders include:
Obesity.
Heart diseases.
Hypothyroidism.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Atherosclerosis.
Stroke.
Diabetes.
Hypertension.
Colon cancer.
Blockage in blood vessels.
Contraindication
You should not follow this plan if you suffer from any of the following:
Malnutrition.
Underweight.
Vata Diseases.
Increased Pitta Disorders.
Children.
Pregnant women.
Two Meals a Day Diet Plan (Eating Twice Daily)
Two Meals a Day Diet Plan is also described by Sushruta Samhita. It is also indicated in Ashtanga Hridaya. It is well-explained in Bhava Prakash and Yoga Ratnakara.
(Meanings: Taking foods less than the required quantity causes loss of strength and you will not get a feeling of satiety. If you take food in excess than required, it causes laziness, bloating, and loss of digestive fire. Thus, you should take food in theproper amount two times in the morning and evening considering Dosha and Kala – time).
When to Eat 2 Meals
According to Ayurvedic literature, timings for morning and evening mealtimes should be:
At One and quarter Pahar in the morning (i.e. approx. 3 hours 45 minutes after sunrise).
Between the 3rd and 4th Pahar of day in the afternoon or approx. 3 hours before sunset. (i.e. around and after 3:00 pm).
(Reference: An English Translation of The Sushruta Samhita, Part 1, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 46, Page No. 558 (bottom comment by author), edited and published by Kaviraj Kunjalal Bhishagratna).
According to the above points, Ayurveda does not recommend eating food before sunrise and after sunset.
Which time should be best for 2 Mealtimes?
In my opinion, the following schedule should be best for the Two Meals a Day Diet Plan.
Morning Mealtime
8:00 am to 10:00 am
Evening Mealtime
3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
The main meal consists of everything you want to eat daily, including fruits, vegetables, intact whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, etc. You can choose different foods for your morning and evening meals. It is all about your personal choice. Read More: Ayurvedic Diet Plan.
Poor Digestion
What should you do if food is not digested before mealtime?
प्रातराशे त्वजीर्णेऽपि सायमाशो न दुष्यति। अजीर्णे सायमाशे तु प्रातराशो हि दुप्यति॥३९॥ (AS.S.Ch 11)
According to Ashtang Sangraha, there is no problem eating an evening meal on schedule time though your morning meal is not properly digested. But you should never eat a morning meal until you have digested the previous day’s evening meal. In the morning, you should eat when you feel appetite and your bowel gets clear. It is a clear indication for One Meal a Day if the food you are facing digestion problems. If this problem continues, you should choose the One Meal a Day Diet Plan.
Indications
Two Meals a Day Diet Plan is best for people:
All healthy people.
Children.
Pregnant women.
People who want to avoid diseases.
People suffer from any disease – Vata Diseases, Pitta Diseases or Kapha Diseases.
Anyone can follow this diet plan regardless of health condition, age, gender and nutritional needs.
Note: You can drink water any time whenever you feel thirsty. This rule does not apply to water intake.
There is a concern about unwanted pesticides on fruits and vegetables. There are several methods for removing pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables. Let’s discuss the most effective solutions:
Turmeric Water
Turmeric water is an ultimate and safe solution for removing pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables. It also helps to reduce the tendency of food-borne diseases by stopping microbes growth.
You should soak vegetables and fruits in turmeric water for around 15 minutes before cutting and chopping. Then wash them 2-3 times with plain cold water.
HOW TO MAKE TURMERIC WATER
The ratio of water and turmeric is 1000:1. It means if you require 1 litre water for soaking vegetables, you require 1 gram (1000 mg) of turmeric powder.
Warm Water
5 litres
Turmeric Powder
5 grams
Take lukewarm water as per the required amount.
Add turmeric powder according to the ratio recommended above.
Mix it thoroughly.
Put vegetables or fruits in this turmeric water.
Leave it for around 15 minutes.
Then discard the turmeric water.
Then rinse vegetables and fruits with plain water 2 -3 times. It helps to remove the contaminants.
You should always prepare turmeric water fresh to other soak vegetables and fruits.
You can also use this water for washing the wound before applying any antiseptic oil or cream (e.g. Jatyadi Oil).
BENEFITS OF TURMERIC WATER
Remove Pesticide Residue from the vegetables and fruits when soaked in it for 15 minutes.
Useful in cleansing the wounds.
REFERENCE
Bajwa U, Sandhu KS. Effect of handling & processing on pesticide residues in food. J Food Sci Technol. 2014;51(2):201-220. doi:10.1007/s13197-011-0499-5
Gupta A (2006) Pesticide residue in food commodities. Agrobios (India).
How to Use Turmeric Water
Take a big container and Prepare turmeric water as described in the article: How to Make Turmeric Water.
Wash fruits and vegetables under running water.
Soak washed fruits and vegetables in Turmeric Water for around 15 minutes.
Wash fruits and vegetables again 2-3 times under running water.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is also useful for removing pesticide residues from fruits and vegetables. It is a little expensive method because you need to use 3 parts of water and 1 part of apple cider vinegar to remove pesticide residues.
Water
3 Parts
Apple Cider Vinegar
1 Part
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar
Take a big container and Prepare Apple Cider Vinegar solution adding 3 parts of water and 1 part of Apple Cider Vinegar.
Wash fruits and vegetables under running water.
Soak washed fruits and vegetables in Apple Cider Vinegar solution for around 15 minutes.
Wash fruits and vegetables again 2-3 times under running water.
Reference
Bajwa U, Sandhu KS. Effect of handling & processing on pesticide residues in food. J Food Sci Technol. 2014;51(2):201-220. doi:10.1007/s13197-011-0499-5
Gupta A (2006) Pesticide residue in food commodities. Agrobios (India).
4. Eat three meals a day, with no snacking. Food is a fast-burning fuel, and when your body is given a constant fuel line, it forgets how to burn fat. Have breakfast, a medium-sized meal, between 7:30 and 9:00 am. Have lunch, your largest meal, between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. Have dinner, your smallest meal, between 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm, when your digestion is weakest.
5. Eat with the season, and preferably the region. Through the long, hot days of summer, Mother Nature offers us fruits and fresh vegetables to keep us cool and energized. In the fall and winter, the bounty consists of root vegetables, stored nuts, seeds and fruits, heavier meats and cheeses, and stored grains to insulate us from the cold. In the damp days of spring, nature brings us berries, green leafy vegetables, and sprouts to cleanse us from the heavy and acidic winter diet. When we eat as much organic and local food as possible, and feast on seasonal, whole foods, our bodies naturally digest and assimilate nutrients.
6. Experience all six tastes. In Ayurveda, we recognize six tastes: sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent. Be sure to incorporate all six tastes into your daily diet. Sweet, sour and salty tastes are anabolic, or building, in nature and need the pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes, which are catabolic, or burning in nature, to balance them out. Too many sweet, sour, and salty tastes, as seen in the Standard American Diet, can cause fast weight gain. Foods that are bitter, such as leafy greens; pungent, such as spicy chili peppers; and astringent, such as pomegranate seeds, offer healthy counterpoints to the building nature of the sweet, sour, and salty tastes.
7. Move a little after each meal. Going for short walks after each meal stimulates digestion. It’s most important to go for a walk after lunch, preferably 10 to 20 minutes at a moderate pace. If possible, lie on your left side after walking for 10 minutes to further aid in digestion.
8. Go to bed with the sun, and rise with the sun. Tapping into our natural circadian rhythms creates a major hormone-balancing effect. Anthropologically speaking, our ancestors had no reason to stay up late at night. They would have slowed down when the sun went down, and maybe sat around a fire or a candle for a while before calling it a day. The screens that we stare at late at night cause stimulation in the brain that keeps us awake and wired after our body naturally wants to slow down. Two hours before bed, start to limit your screen time. Go to bed before 10:00 pm, when we get our second wind. Obtaining a proper seven to nine hours of sleep a night gives the body time to reset for the next day, and helps maintain healthy levels of cortisol (a stress-response hormone that causes weight gain).
These eight steps can have profound effects on your life. However, it’s vitally important to meet yourself where you are, in order to maintain sanity and not create more stress. Decide if this plan is something you want to take on full throttle, or if just a piece or two could be incorporated into your routine at this time. It’s okay to begin with small steps. Slowly but surely, the wisdom of Ayurveda can help lead you toward stress-free, healthy weight loss.
We all want to get beautiful and glowing skin. We usually give emphasis for glowing face and it makes us feel more confident. Ayurveda is the ancient science of healing and living healthy. Ayurveda recommends many things to stay healthy. Ayurveda also has many therapies as well as ayurvedic face packs to make your skin glowing and looking gorgeous. Ayurvedic face packs are very helpful for getting a clear and glowing skin. Here are some ayurvedic face packs of glowing skin, which help you to get a glowing skin fast.
Ayurvedic herbal face pack
Ingredients
Quantity
Lemongrass powder
5 grams
Lemon peel powder
5 grams
Peppermint powder
5 grams
Pine essential oil
Few drops
Rose Water
For making paste
Mix all ingredients and use rose water to make paste.
Apply on the face for 30 minutes and wash with warm water.
It is an herbal pack for glowing skin and making skin clear and fair. You can use this remedy twice a month.
Indian Ubtan (Indian grandmother facial)
Indian ubtan has been in use for improving skin health, making it glowing and fairer.
Take some Gram flour and turmeric powder.
Mix both ingredients and add lemon juice, yogurt, and rose water in it to make paste.
You can increase or decrease amount of the rose water according to desire consistency of paste.
Apply this paste on your skin to get a glowing skin.
In India, girls use this pack before their marriage. They also add chandan powder in this mixture to enhance its benefits. It provides a glowing, clearer and beautiful skin.
Barley flour face pack
Barley flour along with other ingredients aids to get the skin to shine naturally. Take following ingredients in specified amount.
Barley flour
25 grams
Turmeric powder
5 grams
Mustard oil
As required to make paste
Mix barley flour, turmeric powder and mustard oil to make a paste.
Apply it on skin twice a week.
For boosting remedial effects of this remedy, you can also drink milk by adding two three pinches of saffron in it. It is one of the great tips for glowing skin.
Traditional glowing skin face pack
For this, you need following ingredients.
Fuller’s earth (Multani Miti) Powder
4 teaspoons
Honey
2 teaspoons
Yogurt
2 teaspoons
Lemon juice
1 teaspoon
Mix all above ingredients and make a homemade facial pack.
Apply this pack on your face and keep it for 20 minutes.
This traditional remedy provides a clear skin and shiny look.
Homemade Facial pack
Ingredients
Ingredients
Quantity
Red lentils powder (Masoor Dal)
25 grams
Rice
25 grams
Chana Dal (bengal gram split & skinned)
25 grams
Pea dried
25 grams
Sandalwood powder
25 grams
Turmeric powder
25 grams
Method
Make powder of each ingredient.
Mix all ingredients in equal ratio.
Now, make a paste using rose water.
Apply this paste on face and skin for 30 minutes.
Wash your face or take a bath after 30 minutes.
This remedy is highly effective to get a clear and fairer skin. You can keep it in your house and use it as required. Its use once a week can prevent all types of skin diseases, acne and blemishes.
Ayurvedic Face pack for glowing skin
Ingredients (In powdered form)
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia)
10 grams
White sandalwood
10 grams
Padamakh (Prunus cerasoides)
10 grams
Irish (Vetiveria zizanioides)
10 grams
Lodhra (Symplocus racemosa)
10 grams
Turmeric Powder
10 grams
Mix all ingredients in equal quantity.
Add a few drops of lemon oil and rose water in the mixture.
Apply this pack on face, neck and arms.
Leave it for 30 minutes and after that, wash with warm water.
This ayurvedic facial pack does not only improve glow of the skin, but it is also beneficial for reduction in blemishes, dark spots, acne, pimples, and other skin diseases.
Ayurvedic classical texts have described weights and measures in ancient system. Many people are now not known with them. For your reference, we are sharing information about ayurvedic metrics and their modern metric equivalents.
Weight & Measures
Ayurvedic Metric Units (Classical Units)
Modern Metric Equivalent
1 PARAMANU (परमाणु)
0.0016 mg
1 DHAVANSHI (VANSI & TRASRENU) (वंशी/ध्वंशी)
0.05 mg
1 MARICHI (मरीचि)
0.32 mg
1 LAL SARSHAP (सर्षप)
1.95 mg
1 TUNDAL
15.62 mg
1 DHANYAMASH
31.25 mg
1 YAVA
62.5 mg
1 RATTI
125 mg
1 ANDIKA
250 mg
1 MASHAK (MASA)
1 gram
1 SHAAN
3 grams
1 KOL
6 grams
1 TOLA
12 grams
1 KARSHA (1 KARSA)
12 grams
1 SHUKTI
24 grams
1 PAL (1 PALAM)
48 grams
1 CHHATANK
60 grams
1 PRASRTIS (1 PRASRTI)
96 grams
1 CHHATAAK (CHHATAK)
186 grams
1 KUDAV (1 KUDAVAS)
192 grams
1 PAV (पाव)
240 grams
1 MANIKA (MAANIKA)
384 grams
1 PRASTHA (PRASTH)
768 grams
1 SER (SERA or SEER)
960 grams
1 ADHAKA (AADAK)
3 Kg 73 grams
1 TULA
4 Kg 800 grams
1 DRONA (DRON)
12 Kg 228 grams
1 SURPA (SHOORP)
24 Kg 576 grams
1 DRONI
49 Kg 152 grams
1 BHARA
96 Kg
1 KHARI
196 Kg 608 grams
Accepted measurements are given according to Charak Samhita based on TOLA equivalent to 12 grams. There are slight differences in SARNGADHARA SAMHITA and other classical texts.
Measurement of Time in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic Metric Units (Classical Units)
Modern Metric Equivalent
1 KSANA
0.38 seconds
1 LAVA
0.77 seconds
1 NIMESHA
1.55 seconds
1 KASTHA
4.66 seconds
1 KALA
2 minutes 20 seconds
1 GHATI
24 minutes
1 MUHURTA
48 minutes
1 YAMA (याम or पहर)
3 hours
1 AHORATRA
24 hours (8 YAMA)
1 PAKSA
15 days
1 MASA
30 days (1 month)
1 RITU
60 days (2 months)
1 AYANA
6 months
1 SAMVATSARA
12 months (1 year)
1 YUGA
5 years
The first Yama (याम) or Pahar (पहर) of the day starts from the Dawn.
Dawn is a time of the first appearance of light in the sky before sunrise.
The first Yama (याम) or Pahar (पहर) of the night starts from the sunset.
If you’ve ever treated yourself to a facial, you’d be familiar with the remarkable natural skin glow that follows. What if we told you that there’s a way to get that youthful and radiant facial glow without spending on facial treatments? We’re talking about a lesser talked about skincare practice of face massage.
Did you know that our face consists of a total of 42 facial muscles? A face massage is an exercise for those muscles. How exercise benefits our body in numerous ways, a face massage also helps us by relaxing the facial muscles and boosting blood circulation.
From ancient times, the concept of massage has been used as therapy for many different ailments in Ayurveda. Face massage has always been around the corner, and only recently has it started gaining popularity. Some people also practice Facial Yoga for similar benefits. Face massage not only helps your skin but also has relaxing effects on your nervous system. It also helps in reducing anxiety. After a stressful day at work, a face massage with a suitable facial oil can be your go-to escape.
Top 6 Benefits Of A Face Massage
Face massage can be easily done with minimum equipment or products at home, but if you wish, you can also choose to get a professional facial massage once or twice a month.
Here are some fantastic benefits that you can’t miss out on.
Improved blood circulation is vital for our skin as it circulates nutrients and helps in detoxification. With facial massage, you improve circulation and allow the drainage of lymphatic nodes present on your face & neck regions that trap impurities.
2) Reduction Of Wrinkles
Facial massage helps delay the aging of your skin in multiple ways. It increases collagen production, which improves the elasticity of your skin, giving you a wrinkle-free look. Not many people are aware of this, but constant stress also leads to wrinkling of the skin. Facial massage helps with this by relaxing the facial muscles.
3) Tones Your Face
Aging can eventually make your face appear saggy as you lose the tightness of your skin. When facial muscles are not being stimulated, they lose firmness. Face massage helps boost your facial muscles, give you firm jaw muscles, and enhance your face’s tone and shape. Facial massage also helps reduce puffiness by draining the stagnant fluid trapped inside.
4) Facilitates Skin Repair
Collagen is generally required for skin growth and helps with skin elasticity & repair skin tissues. Collagen is synthesized in our body with the help of Vitamin C. However, to enhance its production for the skin, facial massage is helpful. The collagen will naturally help with restoring any damage in the skin.
5) Minimizes Pores and Acne
With proper facial hygiene and regular facial massage with suitable Essential oils, some types of acne can be prevented. Large pores are the second most popular facial problems after acne. And some chronic acne can leave large pores on the skin even after the acne is gone. These large pores can be managed through enhanced collagen production, which occurs during face massage.
6) Relieves Discomforts Due To Sinus
Massaging specific acupressure points & certain regions around your nose can help with the mucus build-up release and give relief from the sinuses. Tapping particular pressure points on your face, for instance, at the center of your eyebrow (eyepoint), ends near the bridge of your nose, and your upper eyelids’ inner side helps in relieving sinuses. You can eventually start to feel some sensation indicating the release of tension or mucus in that specific area with slight continuous gentle pressure.
Face massage can be easily incorporated into your daily or weekly routines. As mentioned previously, it doesn’t have to be expensive nor time-consuming. Let’s now talk about how you can give yourself a face massage at home.
How To Do A Face Massage At Home?
Before getting started, you must have the necessary requirements like a serum or a Face massage oil. You can initially start massaging with your hands. Traditionally, all Ayurvedic massages were given with hands.
However, you can choose to invest in jade rollers, metal rollers, Gua Sha, and other face massage instruments if they suit. It is also very essential to choose the right type of serum or oil-based on your skin type. Remember to clean your hands or your equipment before the massage to avoid acne or any breakouts.
You can use many techniques to massage your face like stroking, kneading with your knuckles, moving in a circular motion, and vibration. Opt for any of these techniques or use a combination of them for the best results. Throughout the massage, make sure that you don’t press too hard. Keep applying gentle pressure evenly.
Here are some basic beginner steps you can follow.
1) Wash your face with a gentle soap or a Face cleanser. Make sure your clean hands and your equipment are clean.
2) Choose a face serum or oil that suits your skin type. Before choosing, make sure you do a patch test on your hand to check if you have any allergic reaction to the oil or serum.
3) Apply the oil or a serum gently over your face. Tap all over your face with your fingers to activate your facial muscles. You can even gently press each region of your face.
4) Now, use your index and middle finger to move in a circular motion from your forehead to your temples to your cheek.
5) Gently roll under your eye from inward motion to outwards and similarly upward near your eyebrows.
6) Using your finger apply mild pressure from your chin towards your cheekbone muscle in an upward motion.
7) For lymphatic drainage, you can start massaging from below your earlobe, going in a downward motion following your neck to your collarbone.
8) You can also massage the acupressure points located on your face to feel more relaxed, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and get sinus relief. You can find these acupressure points at –
– the center of your forehead,
– between your eyebrow,
– sides of your forehead near your temples,
– at the front of the tragus ( front side of the opening of the ear) of the ear,
– under the ear lobe,
– between your nose and upper lip region at the center,
– under your eyes,
– in the groove where your nostril connects your face.
9) You can gently tap each of these pressure points five to ten times.
10) Make sure you massage in a unidirectional motion, and you can repeat each step 3-5 times
You can easily incorporate this in your morning, evening, or bedtime skin care routine just for about 5- 10 min to feel more relaxed and calm.
Which Oil Should You Use For A Face Massage?
Now let’s talk about some oils, and you can choose based on your skin type. Choosing the right kind of face massage oil or serum can be a game-changer. Not all oils are suitable for a face massage. Depending upon your skin type dry, acne-prone, oily, it is necessary to choose the most appropriate oil to avoid breakouts, unwanted acne, or allergic skin reaction.
Here are our top recommendations for face massage oils –
1) Almond oil
If your skin type is dry, Almond oil is suitable for your skin as it helps to retain moisture of your skin. It is rich in vitamin E, which can help to repair skin damage. It also has good antibacterial and antifungal properties. The antibacterial property of almond oil can be used to treat acne and its antifungal property to help treat fungal skin issues.
It’s also used for treating acute skin infections like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis. It can help with reducing & lightening the dark under-eye patches. Not only this, its skin lightening effects can be effective for tan removal.
2) Moringa oil
Moringa oil is obtained from Moringa Oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick plant. For sensitive skin, Moringa oil can be used for face massage. It’s highly used in various cosmetics & skincare products as it has incredible beneficial properties for the skin. It is popularly known for its anti-aging properties.
Moringa seed oil has rich protein content and has a high content of fatty acids like Oleic acid, which acts as an add-on barrier to your natural skin and protects against pollutants. It also has Zeatin, which promotes anti-aging by delaying aging and sagging of the skin. Zeatin helps in the growth of skin tissues at the cellular level. It also has properties like antimicrobial and is also rich in vitamin C that can boost collagen production.
3) Coconut oil
For normal skin type, Coconut oil can be used for facial massage. However, Coconut oil should be avoided if you have large pores, oily, or acne-prone skin as it can clog your pores when kept on for too long. Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that is rich in vitamin E and Lauric acid. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties, due to which it is used for the treatment of skin diseases like eczema.
Fatty acid content, like linolenic acid, helps in retaining the moisture of the skin. When used on normal skin type, Coconut oil helps in moisturizing your skin, making your skin smooth and even. It can also help with skin damages and skin inflammation. However, coconut oil is comedogenic and heavyweight oil, so make sure to apply in small quantities or avoid it if you have breakouts or large pores.
4) Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is ideal for all skin types oily, dry, acne pore. It is known as a natural deodorant and insect repellant. It has antibacterial due to which it can be used to treat acne. However, it is important to note that tea tree is an essential oil that should not be directly on the skin. Dilute 2-3 drops of Tea Tree oil with a tablespoon of suitable carrier oil like Almond oil or Sesame oil before applying on the skin.
Tea tree oil also has anti-inflammatory, which can help in reducing redness and swelling in the skin. It also helps in reducing acne scars and getting rid of itchiness.
You need to choose the right type of massage oil or serum for your skin type. And then, with a correct massaging technique and regular face massage ritual, you can harness the maximum benefits of face massage. Make sure you do a patch test if you have sensitive skin and have allergic reactions to certain oils, especially nut oils.
A face massage is one of the best ways to pamper yourself and take care of your facial skin. Why not start working out those facial muscles for youthful, glowing skin?
How should we choose ayurvedic massage oil for body massage? Which is the best ayurvedic massage oil for daily use? Which oil does ayurveda recommend for regular use? These are the most common question asked by people. In this article, we will check which ayurvedic oil is best for everyone. Then I also talk about a few medicated ayurvedic massage oils that you use based on specific conditions.
सार्षप गन्ध तैलं च यतैलं पुष्पवासितम्। अन्य द्रव्य युतं तेल न दुष्यति कदाचन॥५५॥ (Yoga Ratnakar, Nitya Pravriti Prakar)
Ayurveda recommends three types of oils for regular massage:
Sesame Oil.
Coconut Oil.
Castor Oil.
Mustard Oil.
Fragrance Oils: Oils derived from aromatic flowers and herbs.
Medicated ayurvedic massage oils.
Sesame Oil
According to Sushruta Samhita, sesame oil is beneficial for the skin. He uses the word “TWAK PRASAADANAM (त्वक्प्रसादनं)”, which means it is soothing and gratifying for the skin. So, it has demulcent (emollient) action on the skin. You can take sesame oil internally and apply externally. (S. S. Ch. 45, Verse – 112).
Suitability of Sesame Oil
Who should use sesame oil for massage?
When should I use Sesame Oil for Massage?
You should use sesame oil in a massage before taking a bath. Keep at least 30 minutes gap between massage and bath.
Sesame Oil Processing for Massage
In Ayurveda, we use Murchita Tail. Tail Murchana is an ayurvedic way to make oil suitable for external application. It is useful for improving the overall qualities and efficacy of an oil. However, Bhaishajya Ratnavali gives a difficult process, which you might not follow at home. Here, I am going to provide an easier method that you can do at home.
Bring sesame oil to a boil on medium heat.
Remove it from the stove.
Add a pinch of turmeric powder in it.
Leave it for about 24 hours.
After 24 hours, filter the sesame oil and use it in a daily massage.
Coconut Oil
According to Raj Nighantu, coconut oil is strengthening. It is beneficial for hair (stimulates hair growth and prevents hair fall). It is also very useful for the skin. It reduces itching due to its antipruritic action. It also prevents and treats skin diseases.
It is the best oil that everyone can use without thinking about any dosha. It is suitable for each type of body. However, it is most suitable for people with pitta body type. You can use this oil in cooking as well as an external application.
Suitability of Coconut Oil
हृद्यं रुच्यं नवं प्रोक्तं, पुराणं गुरु वातनुत्।।
Note: According to Raj Nighantu, old coconut becomes heavier to digest, but becomes more efficacious to pacify vata dosha. Fresh coconut is a cardiac tonic and improves interest in food. It also applies to coconut oil. Coconut oil kept more than 6 months also becomes very heavier to digest than fresh coconut oil.
When should I use Coconut Oil for Massage?
You can use coconut oil for a massage before and after taking a bath. There are no such restrictions on this oil.
Castor Oil
Then Sushruta has written about castor oil. He uses word TWACHYAM (त्वच्यं), which means beneficial for the skin. It also means restorative for the skin. So, it restores the natural health of the skin. (S. S. Ch. 45, Verse – 113-114).
Suitability of Castor Oil
Mustard Oil
Then Sushruta has talked about several oils including Mustard Oil. For mustard oil, he says KRIMIGHANAM (कृमिघ्नं), which means anthelmintic (kills parasites), KANDU KUSTHA HARAM (कण्डूकुष्ठापहं), which means antipruritic (reduces itching) and treating skin diseases. According to the description, mustard oil is highly useful for people suffering from itching and skin infections with Kapha dosha dominance. You should also note it has warming nature. Therefore, mustard oil is not suitable for people with Pitta Body Type and Pitta Dosha dominance in their skin. (S. S. Ch. 45, Verse – 115 & 117).
कृमिघ्नं सार्षपं तैलं कण्डूकुष्ठापहं लघु। कफमेदोऽनिलहरं लेखनं कटु दीपनम्।। (S. S. Ch. 45, Verse – 115).
Mustard oil is the best ayurvedic massage for daily use in Abhyanga or full body massage. It has warming potency and reduces Kapha Dosha and alleviates Vata Dosha. It may increase Pitta Dosha.
Suitability of Mustard Oil
Based on dosha effect of mustard oil, it is best for people with vata body type, kapha body type, and vata and kapha body type. You should not use it if you have the pitta body type.
When should I use Mustard Oil for Massage?
Ayurveda advocates massage 2 times – before exercise and after exercise, but always before taking a bath.
It especially applies to mustard oil. Because mustard oil might cause skin irritation and pinning type sensation in the skin in some people if they go under the sun. Therefore, you should not apply mustard oil after taking a bath.
The best oil that you can apply after taking bath is coconut oil. It acts as a moisturizer and protects your skin from sunburn, irritation and several other skin conditions.
Mustard Oil Processing for Massage
To reduce mustard oil’s irritating nature, you should process it in turmeric powder in the following way:
Before using mustard oil, boil it once. Remove it from the stove.
Then added a pinch of turmeric powder in it when it is hot.
Leave it for 24 hours.
After 24 hours, filter the oil and use this oil for daily massage.
This process is not required for oils processed with other herbs.
Contraindications
Who should not use mustard oil as massage oil?
People having sensitive skin, prone to sunburn or have reddishness on the skin should avoid mustard oil. These symptoms belong to people with Pitta body type.
In people with Pitta body type, it can lead to the following side effects:
Skin Irritation.
Pinning type sensation or pain on the skin.
Redness.
Itchiness with burning or heat sensation.
The most of allergic reaction of mustard oil are found in people with pitta body type.
Fragrance Oils
Aromatic oils are called fragrance oils. These are plant-based oils extracted from aromatic flowers and herbs. These oils are also called aroma oils, essential oils, and aromatic oils.
However, you cannot use these oils directly on the skin. You require base oil for making it more suitable for your skin. Because these oils are stronger, sometimes irritant to the skin.
Coconut Oil
100 ml
Fragrance Oil
1 ml
The best base oil for fragrance oils is coconut oil. You should add 1 ml of fragrance oil in 100 ml of coconut oil.
Which fragrance oils can you use?
According to your body type, you can use the following fragrance oils:
Vata Body Type & Vata Skin Type
Allspice oil
Anise oil
Basil oil
Bay leaf oil
Caraway oil
Cardamom oil
Carom seed oil
Cilantro oil
Cinnamon oi
Clove oil
Coriander oil
Cumin oil
Dill oil
Fennel oil
Garlic oil
Ginger oil
Mace oil
Marjoram oil
Mint oil
Nutmeg oil
Oregano oil
Peppermint oil
Rosemary oil
Saffron oil
Tarragon oil
Thyme oil
Turmeric oil
Vanilla oil
Pitta Body Type & Pitta Skin Type
Sandalwood oil
Rose Oil
Cardamom Oil
Coriander Oil
Cumin oil
Fennel oil
Mint oil
Neem oil
Peppermint oil
Spearmint oil
Vanilla oil
Wintergreen oil
Kapha Body Type & Kapha Skin Type
Allspice oil
Anise oil
Basil oil
Bay leaf oil
Caraway oil
Cardamom oil
Carom seed oil
Cinnamon oi
Clove oil
Cumin oil
Dill oil
Fennel oil
Fenugreek
Ginger oil
Mace oil
Marjoram oil
Mint oil
Neem Oil
Nutmeg oil
Oregano oil
Peppermint oil
Rosemary oil
Saffron oil
Spearmint oil
Tarragon oil
Tea tree oil
Thyme oil
Turmeric oil
Vanilla oil
Wintergreen oil
You can select any of above aromatic oil. However, each oil has different recommendations. We will share the detail in articles on these specific oils.
Medicated Ayurvedic Massage Oils
After talking about mustard oil and fragrance oils, then Yoga Ratnakar discusses the use of medicated ayurvedic massage oils. He says oils medicated with herbs and natural ingredients are safer to use as massage oils. These oils do not cause any problem or side effects. According to skin type and body type, you can use any of the following oils:
The easiest way to be healthy is when we live in accordance with nature. In earlier times this happened naturally—people rose and slept with the sun and ate according to the seasons. But now, with advancements in technology, it is possible to enjoy a mango in December and eat carrots in the summer. But the concept of ritucharya, or living according to the seasons, pretty much forms the backbone of an Ayurvedic lifestyle. The grishma (summer) season calls for lighter food, less exercise and afternoon naps because the weather saps our strength and energy. “In summers, the appetite and digestive capacity is much weaker,” says Dr Mahesh Patil, Ayurvedic physician and founder, Vivekananda Ayurvedic Chikitsalaya, Pune. “So to begin with, the quantity of food must be much lesser—for instance if you eat two rotis on a regular basis, then halve the quantity to one.” He also explains that sweet is the flavour of summer—by this he doesn’t mean refined sugar but ingredients such as ghee, good quality A2 milk, coconuts, cashews, pumpkins, whole grains (like rice) and lentils (for example, moong).
The foods you consume should also be cooling and hydrating to make up for lost fluids in the body. “Summer is a great time to eat something that’s a bit sweet and sour—aam panna, for example, is an excellent summer preparation because it helps quench thirst and reduce heat.” He advises reducing pungent spices that have the tendency to heat the body, and adding a pinch of rock (not table) salt to your summer drink to rehydrate yourself, as it balances electrolytes in the body. This is the time to shift focus away from heating herbs like ashwagandha and tulsi and opt for more cooling options too. Scroll ahead for Dr Patil’s list of nine Ayurvedic herbs you can explore during the hot, sweltering season.
These cooling herbs will help reduce heat in the body during summers
Jatamansi
Prized for its dreadlock-like roots (which explains the ‘jata’ in the name), this extremely cooling ingredient is a mild sedative that calms the body and mind. “Jatamansi is excellent to reduce heat in the head.” He recommends you mix a tsp of the powder in a glass of hot or boiling water, keep it covered for four to six hours, then strain and drink before bed.
Amalaki
“Amla in any form in extremely cooling, however as fresh amla is not available in summer, you could go for the powder form or eat it as a murabba (a sweet fruit preserve),” he says. Dr Patil explains that when consumed, amla helps reduce heat rashes on the skin. “Like the topical application of sandalwood cools skin from the outside, amla cools it from the inside—it is an excellent antioxidant, and works to reduce heat all the way from the upper respiratory area to the lower GI tract.” Mix a tsp of the powder in your juice during summer or boil mint leaves to make tea and add a tsp of the powder.
Bael
Also called bilva, this is one of the most effective summer coolers. “It reduces heat in the liver and intestines, soothes acidity and disturbed digestion.” Scoop out the fruit, puree with water and drink with a bit of rock salt for best results.
Sandalwood
While topical sandalwood calms a heat rash, it can also be consumed. “It is extremely cooling for the lymph, blood and circulatory systems.” It can be especially handy during a sunstroke. “Consume two to four tsps of Chandanasav (an Ayurvedic preparation) twice a day if you’re prone to a heat stroke, have a burning sensation or low hydration.”
Khus
Also known as ushira in Sanskrit and vetiver in English, khus sherbet used to be an essential summer drink before sugar became synonymous with poison. Still, you can reap the benefits of its roots to keep your body cool by infusing the ingredient in water. “Add a bundle of the roots to your water bottle or toss them into a clay matka to stay cool during summer.”
Desi gulab
Rose benefits the skin equally whether it is eaten or applied. “Ayurveda doesn’t support combinations but rose and milk is the ideal match.” To make a rose milkshake, blend a handful of organic fresh or dry rose petals with a glass of A2 milk and drink up. Use either unrefined sugar called ‘khand’ or a spoonful of honey to sweeten the shake.” Dr Patil explains that many people assume that honey is heating. “However, honey is the ideal yogavahi or carrier, so it becomes cold when mixed into something cold and hot when missed with hot water.”
Mulethi
Liquorice or mulethi is an ideal ingredient to sooth the upper respiratory tract. “It is good for when you feel like you may come down with the flu or for irritations in the throat.” Dr Patil recommends just chewing on a stick to reap its benefits.
Shatavari
The effect of this herb (that comes from the asparagus family) is extremely cooling. “You can take a tsp of this with water or milk anytime of the day.” He explains that this is very good for the skin and supportive for women who have gynaecological and uterine problems.
Anantmool
The roots of this climber are highly prized for their ability to treat skin diseases. It’s also good for the heart, liver and the circulatory system. “You can boil half a tsp each of anantmool powder, amalaki and shatavari, and add fresh mint leaves to make a cooling summer tisane.”
Vasudha Rai has been writing on beauty and wellness for more than 15 years. She’s the author of Glow: Indian Foods, Recipes and Rituals for Beauty Inside and Out, and blogs regularly on Vbeauty.co
Also read:
6 Indian superfoods that will keep you healthy through summer
8 cooling foods that will help you fight all your summer skin and health issues
10 summer salad myths to help you on your way to fitness
“Symbols can take many forms. They may well come by way of a book, a chance meeting, even a backache or a flat tyre. They appear the world over and break all cultural and language barriers”
~ Anne Jirsch
Who hear remembers that scene from the Jim Carrey classic, Bruce Almighty, when Bruce – having been sacked, fallen out with his girlfriend and beaten up whilst helping a homeless guy – asks for a sign. He then passes an illuminated sign saying “Caution ahead” which he completely ignores. Then a truck load of illuminated signs weaves in front of his car saying “Dead End, Stop, Wrong Way, Yield, No Crossing and Do Not Enter”, which he ALSO ignores and as a result hits a light pole and ploughs on into the water in his car.
What to look out for
We are all guilty of being like Bruce. We go through our daily lives completely oblivious to the signs that the Universe is trying to send us. Except when something bad happens and then we get cross, petition and seek the counsel of the Universe to try and make sense of the situation.
Our daily lives are filled with messages from the Universe and signs that are meant just for us. They appear along our journey to aid us in making decisions, to teach us lessons, and in some cases literally give us a preview of things to come! They also show us if we’re headed in the right direction, or act as that little nudge to make us change course if the direction we are taking no longer serves our highest good.
In order to fully benefit from these useful messages and signs from the Universe, there is a three step process we need to follow; we have to, firstly, recognise them, then decode them and finally, understand them.
Unfortunately the signs we see in our everyday lives are not the loud shouty, Bruce Almighty style messages. No, they tend to be often easily overlooked or ignored completely. However, once we tune ourselves in, pay greater attention and observations to our immediate surroundings, these magical messages and signs literally jump out at us.
As the world renowned clairvoyant and Future Life Progression pioneer, Anne Jirsch says;
“Symbols can take many forms. They may well come by way of a book, a chance meeting, even a backache or a flat tyre. They appear the world over and break all cultural and language barriers”
If you’re familiar with the Law of Attraction, then you will know that the Universe is in constant contact with us. It never stops guiding us. And once we start to understand that we are not alone, fending for ourselves, but instead we are being supported all the way, the pressure is off and our lives become magically enriched by these messages.
From my experience, some messages from the Universe are really easy to spot, you might find this too.
Through Music
Wow wow wow, if I have a pound for every time I have had song lyrics guide me I would be a MILLIONAIRE! The lyrics of a song will almost always apply directly to your life in some way. And it will usually give you the clarity you need over a situation you’re facing. It can also offer support and strength or give you a laugh when you need it most, because the lyrics are just so apt for how you’re feeling.
Whilst Driving
What you see as you’re driving can be an indication of things that are happening in your life to a lesser or greater extent. For example, a car driving slowly in front of you is a definite sign that you need to slow down a bit. Many a time I have been manically driving at my own set pace, when someone pulls out in front of me making me slow down. And I always take that as a sign to calm down, and not only drive that little bit slower, but also calm down in mylife too. It does usually happen when I am feeling stressed or het up about something.
Number Patterns
Triple or quadruplenumbers happen to me all the time. Different numbers have very different meanings, and repeating numbers have very specific meanings too detailed to go into here, but I have a handy download that will give you the basics.
Overheard Conversations
This one is one of my faves and it’s not confined to overheard conversations, but TV presenters, actors in shows and newscasters to name but three. It might be that you’re thinking of moving to a specific area of the country and you’re just not sure of the location; when you ‘overhear‘ (in some form) that the Cotswolds has the lowest crime rate and the best standard of living. Then you know that your move is the right one. It can also literally be (and this has happened countless time to me) what shall I have for dinner – deciding between two or more cuisines – and an ad comes on the TV or radio the confirms one of the choices.
Burst Pipes
A problem with the plumbing in your home can mean a couple of things. Firstly, water is represents your emotions so this could be connected to the loss of someone, a friendship or relationshipending or feeling emotionally overwhelmed.
But it can also happen when you’ve been working with Feng Shui to create a greater flow of Qi in your home through decluttering, reorganisation or remodelling and decorating. This is your home literally letting out a breath, and breaking at the weakest point, because of this new rush of energy through it. Once fixed though, the vital Qi, you have intended, will be held onto more strongly.
Getting your attention
Always remember that if the Universe is really desperate to get your attention, you will see messages repeatedly. They might not be a truck full of flashing neon signs like Bruce Almighty experienced, but they will definitely be repetitively yapping at your heels until you notice them!
Don’t forget, this is a two way street; you are a powerful being that can communicate directly with the Universe yourself. If this is something that scares you slightly, start off small by playing a game that we call in our family, Ask the Universe. It might sound like game show, but trust me it’s great fun and
will cement your belief in the reciprocal communication with the Universe as a infinite resource.
The game is really simple; all you have to do is think of the most outrageous thing that you want to see provided by the Universe. Say something like a purple fire-breathing dragon. Ask the Universe very politely to show it to you. Then simply sit back and wait for it to be shown to you, and this part is key…
be open to the Universe’s interpretation and creativity.
The best game I played of this was when I asked to see a blue bird. Now I live in cold, wet rainy Britain, where a blue bird is the least likely thing you’re going to see. But I held firm in my belief that the Universe would show this to me. A few hours later I pulled up to the supermarket parking lot and parked next to a car, that I didn’t give much thought to, until I saw the model of the car…
It was a Nissan Bluebird!
Have a go at this game yourself. Tell me what you asked for and what showed up, in the comments below. You will be amazed and what the Universe will provide for you given the chance!
