Infused Body Oils

Abhyanga is the Ayurvedic practice of self-massage with warm oil and is traditionally used as part of a daily self-care routine. The slow, rhythmic application of oil can feel deeply grounding and soothing, helping to settle the nervous system and bring a sense of calm when we feel stressed or overstimulated. The oil moisturizes and protects the skin while the massage supports the muscles, joints, and circulation.

Ayurveda also uses a wide range of herbal oils for specific therapeutic purposes. These medicated oils, often called taila or tailam, are traditionally prepared by processing herbs through a combination of decoctions, herbal pastes, and oil, often over an extended period. Because their preparation is more involved, I prefer to source traditional medicated oils from reputable Ayurvedic pharmacies rather than make them at home. Athreya Herbs, Banyan Botanicals, Kerala Ayurveda, and Kottakal are my favorite resources for medicated oils.

This infused body oil is different from a traditional thailam. Think of it as a simple, enjoyable way to create a beautifully fragrant body oil at home using herbs, flowers, and nourishing plant oils…all free from chemicals, dyes, and other endocrine-disrupting ingredients commonly found in skincare products. It’s intended for everyday self-massage and skin care, rather than as a therapeutic Ayurvedic medicated oil.

YIELD: roughly 1 quart body oil

Ingredients

Soothing Body Oil:

30 oz pure almond oil, sunflower oil, or plain sesame oil
½ cup organic dried rose buds
½ cup organic dried calendula

Instructions

There are several ways to infuse body oils, but a simple solar infusion is the easiest method.

Clean and dry a quart-sized glass jar.

Place your desired herbs in the bottom of the jar. Opt for dried herbs over fresh to reduce the moisture in the jar.

Pour the carrier oil into the jar, filling almost to the top by leaving about ½ -1-inch of space for the herbs to expand.

Seal with a lid and give the jar a gentle shake to combine the herbs and oil.

Place the jar in direct sunlight, a window sill is a great location.

Let the oil infuse in the sun for 4 weeks, or a full lunar cycle. (I often prepare my oils on the full moon and wait until the next moon to strain it.)

When ready, strain the rough materials from the oil. A cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer works best. Pour the infused oil into glass bottles and store in a cool, dry place.

To use, warm a few ounces of the oil by placing it in a small bowl or jar and setting it in a larger bowl of warm water for a few minutes. Test the temperature before applying, then massage the warm oil slowly over your body using long strokes on the limbs and gentle circular motions around the joints. Allow the oil to absorb for 10–15 minutes before rinsing off with a warm shower or bath.

Notes

Curious to learn more about Ayurveda daily rituals and self-care practices? Join the Living Ayurveda Membership to build your daily and seasonal routines.