What Kind of Oils I Use in My Bodywork, Massage & Ayurvedic Therapy

Traditional Ayurvedic Medicinal Oils, Individually Selected for You

One question clients often ask me is, “What kind of oil do you use for your massage?”

It is a good question, but it is not always easy to give one simple answer. I use many different natural oils and traditional Ayurvedic medicinal oil preparations, and I often create my own blends. The oil I choose depends on the type of massage or Ayurvedic therapy I am providing, the area of the body I am working on, and the individual needs of each person.

In my practice, I believe that one oil is not right for everyone or every treatment. Choosing the appropriate oil is an important part of my personalized approach to therapeutic bodywork.

How I Choose the Right Ayurvedic Oil

In Ayurveda, we consider a person's constitution, known as Prakriti, and the balance of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These traditional Ayurvedic principles help guide how I approach each person.

When you come for a session, I consider your general constitution, your preferences, the area of the body needing attention, the type of bodywork, and whether you tend to feel more heat, cold, dryness, or heaviness.

I also ask about skin sensitivities, allergies, and previous reactions to oils. This information matters because certain oils or herbal ingredients may not be suitable for everyone.

Based on these considerations, I select an oil or blend that is appropriate for the session. My goal is to make your experience as comfortable, thoughtful, and individualized as possible.

Different Oils for Different Needs

1. Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is one of the traditional base oils used in Ayurveda, particularly for Abhyanga, the practice of Ayurvedic oil massage. I may use warm sesame oil when it is appropriate for the person and the treatment.

In traditional Ayurveda, sesame oil is valued for its nourishing qualities and its role in oil-based bodywork.

2. Almond Oil

Almond oil is another option I may use, depending on the treatment and the person's skin preferences. It provides a smooth massage medium and can be suitable for certain bodywork and facial massage applications.

Please let me know if you have a nut allergy before your session.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is another traditional oil used in Ayurvedic practices. I may choose it when a lighter-feeling oil or a different approach to the person's needs is appropriate.

The choice depends on the individual, the type of massage, and the characteristics of the oil.

4. Mahanarayan Oil and Other Herbal Preparations

Mahanarayan Taila is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal oil commonly used in bodywork focused on joints, muscles, and areas of stiffness or discomfort.

For focused work around the neck, shoulders, back, or other areas, I may select Mahanarayan oil or another herbal preparation according to the treatment and the person's sensitivities.

I also use different oils and blends for areas that need a more focused approach. I do not assume that the same preparation is suitable for every person or every kind of discomfort.

5. Oils for Head Massage and Shiro Abhyanga

For Indian head massage, also known as Champi, and Shiro Abhyanga, I select oils according to the type of session and the individual's preferences.

Depending on the preparation, these may include herbal oils traditionally used for scalp massage. The massage may incorporate the scalp, head, neck, shoulders, and upper back.

The experience combines the selected oil with therapeutic touch, rhythmic massage, and time to rest.

6. Oils for Specialized Ayurvedic Therapies

Some Ayurvedic therapies call for specific oil preparations rather than a general massage oil.

• Shirodhara: A traditional therapy involving a steady stream of an appropriately selected liquid, often warm oil, over the forehead. The preparation depends on the treatment plan.

• Janu Basti: A localized Ayurvedic therapy in which warm oil is held over the knee within a formed boundary.

• Nasya: A specialized Ayurvedic nasal therapy that uses preparations specifically intended for nasal administration. These are different from ordinary massage oils.

• Other focused bodywork: Different herbal preparations may be selected for particular areas and techniques.

Each therapy has its own method and considerations. I select preparations appropriate to the specific procedure rather than using one oil for everything.

Natural Oils and My Own Herbal Blends

Over the years, I have developed experience working with a wide variety of Ayurvedic oils and herbal preparations. I keep many different oils available in my practice so I can make thoughtful choices for different types of bodywork.

I also prepare many of my own blends using natural oils and selected ingredients. These blends allow me to tailor the oil to the type of massage and the area being addressed.

Natural does not automatically mean that an ingredient is suitable for every person. Some herbs, fragrances, and concentrated essential oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions. That is why I encourage every client to tell me about sensitivities, allergies, or concerns before the session.

Why I Ask About Your Body and Your Preferences

Before choosing an oil, I want to understand what you need from your session. You might be looking for deep relaxation, general bodywork, focused attention on tight shoulders, or a traditional Ayurvedic oil massage.

I consider your preferences and the nature of the session before selecting an oil. If you have concerns about scent, skin sensitivity, or a particular ingredient, please tell me. We can discuss suitable options before beginning.

The oil is one part of the experience. The way I approach your bodywork, the massage technique, and the attention I give to your individual needs are equally important.

Ayurvedic Medicinal Oils Available for Purchase

I also offer selected oils from my practice for clients who would like to take them home.

• 30 ml bottle — $18

• 50 ml bottle — $25

Availability depends on the particular oil or blend. Please ask me which preparations are currently available and what each one is intended for in traditional Ayurvedic use.

Before purchasing or applying an oil, let me know if you have allergies, sensitive skin, or other concerns. Some specialized preparations are intended only for particular uses and should not be substituted for ordinary massage oil.

Have a Question About Ayurvedic Oils?

If you have ever wondered which oil is used during an Ayurvedic massage, or why different oils are chosen for different treatments, you are welcome to ask me.

I am happy to explain the oils I use, the traditional Ayurvedic principles behind my choices, and which options may be appropriate for your session.

At Therapeutic Ayurveda Center in Boulder, Colorado, my approach brings traditional Ayurvedic knowledge and individualized therapeutic bodywork together.

Book a session or contact me to ask about Ayurvedic massage, medicinal oils, and available herbal blends.

Therapeutic Ayurveda Center
Boulder, Colorado
Website: TherapeuticAyurveda.com
Email: TherapeuticAyurveda@gmail.com
Phone: (530) 450-5207

Please note: Ayurvedic oils are selected according to traditional practice and individual preferences. They are not a substitute for medical evaluation or treatment. Specialized preparations, particularly those containing concentrated ingredients or intended for nasal use, require appropriate guidance.