Ayurveda, the ancient science has a separate branch dealing with mother and baby care. During and after pregnancy, the body undergoes a tremendous transformation. The new mom needs complete rest and a diet, along with practices to subdue the stress. Ayurveda knows the importance of postnatal care and has its way, which encompasses diet, rest, and massage with oils.
Oil massage or Abhyanga as its widely known, is an essential part of postpartum care in Ayurveda. Massaging oils for the new mom makes the body recover faster, and also address the physical and mental stress experienced by the new moms.
An Ayurvedic oil massage is also helpful to treat issues related to lactation.
Benefits of Ayurvedic Oil massage
Induces relaxation: A massage with an Ayurvedic oil or any other massage oil stimulates blood circulation. This helps reduce anxiety, fatigue, and many other health problems.
Relaxation: A new mom would have undergone enormous strain and pressure, added with the sleepless nights. A good postpartum Ayurvedic oil massage helps flush out the toxins and relaxes the body, ensuring sound sleep.
Stretch mark removal: Certain Ayurvedic oils are adept at lightening the stretch marks.
Regulates stress: Both physical and mental stress is seen widely in new moms. An excellent postpartum massage with an Ayurvedic oil alleviates the stress providing relaxation to the body and mind.
Oils used for Postpartum care
Our ancestors took great care in providing the right concoctions for a new mom. The quality of medicines and oils play a vital role. Some Ayurvedic massage oils used are
Balaswagandhadi Thailam - Balaswagandhadi Thailam strengthens the muscles and nerve coordination. It is also very useful in relieving pains, especially joint pain and headache.
Nalpamaradi Thailam - Nalpamaradi thailam is a good massage oil. This removes uneven skin tone and also gives a healthy glow. Nalpamaradi thailam also helps diminish stretch marks.
Dhanwantharam Thailam - Dhanwantharam thailam is the most widely used postpartum care oil. Expectant mothers also use it. Dhanwantharam thailam boosts immunity, alleviates pain, and strengthens the muscles. It reduces stretch marks effectively and can be used pre-and post-delivery.
Nalpamaradi Choornam - Nalpamaradi choornam, a herbal powder which contains the main constituents of Nalpamaradi thailam is used to prepare bathing water postpartum. Application of Dhanwantharam thailam and bathing with Nalpamaradi choornam water can effectively reduce stretch marks.
Eladi Thailam - This is a perfectly safe oil and helps reduce stress. The soothing and calming effect provided by the thailam is much needed one for a new mom. Eladi thailam is useful for skin dryness. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil - Extra virgin coconut oil is also a good massage oil if you don't want to go for other Ayurvedic oils. It keeps the skin hydrated, and a good massage relieves stress. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of extra virgin coconut oil is an added advantage.
Where to buy?
As we are using these massage oils for a new mom, it is best to select the most reputable and trustworthy source. The oils need to be prepared with the utmost care. You can opt for Shesha Ayurveda, where all these products are available, made out with utmost care and high quality ingredients.
Note - If you are using the massage oils for the first time after delivery, it is always better to take advice from an Ayurvedic practitioner or do a skin test before full body application.
