Ayurveda is a healthcare system of preventive measures that aims to prevent illness. One of the preventative measures is an Ayurvedic therapy called Shiroabhyagam which is an herbal oil head massage. This therapy is described in the ancient classical Ayurvedic text as part of dinacharya, a daily self-care regimen that prevents illness.
Shiroabhyanga is the application of warm herbal oil applied to the scalp by gently massaging with the fingertips. This is done on a daily basis and offers many health benefits. It is categorized under the classification known as Murdhani Tailam, which is a procedure of treatments designed for the head.
Shiroabhyanga is a snehana or oleation treatment practiced during Purva Karma which is the first set of actions during a Pancha karma. Snehana is divided into two types, bahya (external) and abhyantara (internal) oleation. Shiroabhyanga is categorized under bahya snehana.
Benefits of Shiroabhyanga Oil Massage
Herbal Oils for Shiroabhyangam
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Arishtams and Asavams are medicinal herbs processed by fermentation. The process of making an Arishtam or Asavam is lengthy and begins by boiling dried herbs in water to extract the medicinal qualities of the herbs. This is called an herbal decoction.
Ayurveda, as well as other systems of Indian medicine use metals and minerals to support healing. The use of metals for healing is also amply described in Chinese and Egyptian medicines as far back as 2500 B.C.. Bhasmas are unique to Ayurveda and the use of metal and mineral preparations have been documented since the 7th century A.D.
The Ayurvedic text lists four types of fats with medicinal healing qualities. They are ghritam (ghee), oil (sesame), vasa (muscle), and majja (marrow). Each one has its own unique properties, however ghritam has several special qualities that are unmatched. Ghritam will maintain its own healing qualities even when combined with herbs with different qualities.
Vaidya Vishwanath
Vaidya Vishwanath grew up in Pune, India which is hub of traditional Ayurvedic gurukul teachings, following the principles of Ayurveda as part of his culture. He has dedicated his career over the past 1 ½ decades to the science of Ayurveda.