I keep running into the benefits of massaging with sesame oil.I first heard about it when I was reading Perfect Health-The Complete Mind Body Guide by Deepak Chopra. He mentioned doing a daily massage using Sesame oil and how beneficial it is for anxiety and stress.

Of course, I had to try it and after only one time I felt great. I continued it for a whole week and noticed a slight change in my mood. I felt more grounded and calm. My skin also felt somehow stronger yet very smooth.

I have been recommending it to my reflexology clients and many of them have experienced great results. Seems to be beneficial for joint pain (Arthritis).

A little Background:

Sesame seeds were one of the first crops processed for oil as well as one of the earliest condiments. Sesame oil is also used in many Ayurvedic (a system of traditional medicine native to India) medicines, for treating various ailments like pacifying stress related symptoms.

Sesame seed oil:

  • absorbs quickly
  • penetrates through the tissues to the very marrow of the bone.
  • helps joints keep their flexibility.
  • It keeps the skin supple and soft.
  • It heals and protects areas of mild scrapes, cuts and abrasions.

Which Sesame oil do you use?

what-type-of-sesame-oil

For the best results choose a sesame oil that is cold-pressed, and organic. The oil will look like the light coloured oil in the picture above NOT the dark brown coloured toasted Sesame oil, that is for cooking … unless you want yourself and your clients to smell like an Oriental restaurant.

Steps to cure or purify your Sesame Oil:

When you follow this process it makes the oil so it does not go rancid and will last way longer. Usually sesame oil only lasts about 3-6months after opening.

steps-to-cure-sesame-oil

  1. Purchase cold-pressed, chemical-free organic sesame oil which offers the best results for massage.
  2. Pour the oil into a sauce pan.
  3. Use low heat, and don’t leave the oil on heat unattended
  4. Wait until you start to see steam or bits of smoke rising from the oil (like mist rising off a lake in the early morning) DO NOT boil!
  5. Remove from heat and set it aside to cool down (I put it outside because it has quite a strong smell)
  6. Pour it into a container for storage. You can use the same bottle it came in which is usually a glass container.
  7. Massage with the oil … Enjoy! Sesame oil is easier than most oils to wash out of cloths but still be cautious with the cloths you wear.

Massage with Sesame Oil:

When using the oil as a massage oil, stroke the long limbs up and down. Use circular motions over all joints to stimulate the natural energy of those joints. I find it best to do a full body massage just before I get into the shower.

Here is a link on how to give yourself a massage: Click HERE to watch a Youtube Video on self massage

Resources mentioned in the Post

Perfect Health–Revised and Updated: The Complete Mind Body Guide
Ayurvedic Massage: Traditional Indian Techniques for Balancing Body and Mind
Ayurveda: A Practical Guide: The Science of Self Healing

An amazing must see DVD on Ayurveda

I picked this up at my library and watched it, I highly recommend it if you have a chance.

[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]