The three most popular Ayurvedic oils

Anyone who has ever had an Ayurvedic massage will certainly remember the wonderful feeling of warm Ayurvedic oil flowing over the back and being spread over the skin with gentle strokes. However, it is not only the regularity or artful massage technique of self-massage that provides the soothing effect, but also to a large extent the powerful active ingredients in the oils themselves. According to the ancient Ayurvedic teachings, oil is an important remedy for internal and external use, which cares, cleanses, nourishes and has a great influence on physical and mental well-being.

Base oils for home use

Pure natural oils - preferably sesame oil (North India) or coconut oil (South India) - are preferred for domestic use. In our domestic climate zones, almond oil and olive oil are also very suitable. However, if we suffer from back pain, nervousness or skin problems, the use of traditional Thai and Keram (medicinal herbal oils) is particularly recommended to achieve a quick and intensive effect of the oil treatment.

The absolute frontrunners from the large selection of traditional Ayurvedic oils are undisputedly 3 favorites that should not be missing in any oil medicine cabinet. Whether as a "booster" for the daily massage as part of the morning routine or as a "specialist" for stress-related or painful complaints: We are usually right with Mahanarayanam, Dhanvantaram or Murivenna!

Mahanarayanam Thailam means "great king oil" and is the name of the most important oil for the musculoskeletal system. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine describes it as pain-relieving and mobilizing for bone, muscle and joint complaints. It is suitable for all constitution types, but has a special Vata-lowering effect to balance musculoskeletal complaints.

Dhanvantaram Thailam is named after the god of Ayurvedic medicine and has a wide range of effects in the areas of regeneration, rejuvenation and stress reduction. It is a tri-dosha oil, i.e. suitable for all constitutional types, including pregnant women and newborn babies, and is particularly characterized by its skin-friendly, warming, nourishing, nurturing and restorative qualities. A massage oil for all situations!

Murivenna is an ointment made from coconut oil in a jar, which is an absolute "must have" for every athlete, as Murivenna is traditionally used as an emergency oil for every bruise, strain, burn, abrasion or other type of injury. This is also reflected in the name, as "muri" is the Sanskrit word for "wound". We like to oil congested feet with murivenna overnight or use it for local scar treatment and adhesions after injuries.

For all those who have no experience with the Ayurvedic art of self-massage, you can find an exciting article on Ayurvedic massage with detailed instructions on self-massage for the whole body here. You can find more interesting articles on Ayurvedic massage on the website of the European Academy of Ayurveda.

We wish you much joy and relaxation!

Article by Sonja Strassburger