Warm Sesame Oil Self-Massage
A full-body self-massage with gently warmed sesame oil before bathing.
Also known as: Abhyanga, Sesame abhyanga, Til oil massage
Overview
A classical Ayurvedic daily practice. Sesame oil is warmed to body temperature and massaged over the whole body in long strokes on the limbs and circular strokes at the joints, left on for fifteen to twenty minutes, then washed off in a warm bath.
Traditionally used for: A grounding daily or weekly self-care practice, especially in cold, dry weather.
What Your Body May Be Signaling
Concern links already associated with this remedy in the Wisdom Jar library.
Muscle soreness and cramps
Also described as: muscle-soreness, muscle soreness, occasional muscular discomfort, external massage
Dry skin
Also described as: dry skin, minor dryness, dryness, seasonal dryness
Joint stiffness and discomfort
Also described as: joint stiffness, joint-stiffness, joints, general joint wellness
What You Can Try
Ingredients used
- Sesame Oil(Tila Taila)Primary
What May Worsen It / Safety Essentials
Do not massage over inflamed, injured or infected skin, and do not massage a painful, swollen or hot joint. Take care not to slip in the bathroom.
Who should avoid it
- People with fever or an acute infection
- People with active skin infections, open wounds or recent surgery
- People with severe varicose veins
- Anyone allergic to sesame
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Gentle massage is often enjoyed in pregnancy, but avoid deep abdominal pressure and check with your midwife or doctor.
Children: Use a very light touch and much less oil for children; keep oil well away from the face of infants.
When to Seek Medical Advice
- Skin rash or itching
- Slipping or falls on an oily floor
- Increased pain in a joint after massage
What does the evidence say?
Practitioner use
This is used mainly within qualified practitioner practice and classical formulations. Self-directed use is not appropriate, and evidence outside traditional texts is limited.