In Ayurveda, application of herbal oils by means of massage is equivalent to injecting medicines into the body. Rubbing and kneading the surface the body helps send the herbal extracts that are infused in these oils into the circulatory system, extending their healing effects to all the organs and tissues. Massage also stimulates blood flow and releases tension from the muscles and the joints, improving flexibility, and speeding recovery from sports injuries. However, only a qualified person is permitted to perform such a massage, as there are specific methods of applying pressure in each part of the body, and a wrong method can worsen the injury or illness.
One of the most popular massage oils, Dhanwantharam, combines the extracts of 28 rare herbs, most of which are native to the Indian subcontinent. Dhanwantharam is recommended for all body types, particularly the vata and pitta types. Due to its rich supply of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and vital nutrients, this herbal blend rejuvenates the body and skin and increases immunity. It is used to treat rheumatic and neurological diseases and chronic vata conditions and for prenatal and postnatal care. The oil also promotes regeneration of skin cells; improves skin texture; relieves stiffness, pain, and numbness; boosts blood circulation; and helps the skin get rid of toxins.
Another Ayurvedic technique that uses this lukewarm medicated oil to help manage the symptoms of several health conditions, including arthritis, spondylitis, nervous disorders, hemiplegia, and sexual weakness, is pizhichil. This procedure requires two to four Ayurvedic therapists who share the tasks of rhythmically streaming the oil onto the client’s body and performing a gentle massage for 45 to 60 minutes. The therapy can be administered in a single day or over the course of 7 to 21 days, depending on the client’s health condition and constitution. This method is also recommended for healthy persons as a time-tested approach to rejuvenation and disease prevention.
When using Dhanwantharam oil as part of your daily routine (rather than as a treatment for a medical condition), pour a small amount into a container and heat it to 36–40 degree Celsius. Gently massage the oil into skin and let it soak in for an hour. Then remove the remaining oil with a clean washcloth or by rinsing off in a lukewarm shower. Never apply the oil directly to freshly injured skin, and be sure to store it someplace out of reach of children.
Ingredients in Dhanwantharam Oil
Some of the main ingredients in Dhanwantharam oil are cow’s milk, wild mallow, black sesame oil, Madras gram, Indian jujube, barley, wild asparagus, Spanish woodbine, ashwagandha, bael tree, snapdragon tree, Indian madder, headache tree, Indian trumpet flower, Pseudarthria viscida, Desmodium gangeticum, pink jacaranda, Indian sarsaparilla, Himalayan cedar, puncturevine, Aerva lanata, Solanum species, stone flower, fenugreek, sweet flag, rock salt, chebulic myrobalan, Indian gooseberry, beleric myrobalan, myrrh, golden gram, cinnamon, Vigna species, licorice, cardamom, and Indian dill.
Disclaimer
The sole purpose of these articles is to provide information about the tradition of Ayurveda. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease.