What Is the Meaning of Gingelly Oil in Odia, and How Is It Used Traditionally?

Question

I have always used gingelly oil (sesame oil) in my daily life, mainly for cooking and massage. But recently, I was visiting Odisha, and I realized people call it by a different name there. Now I’m curious—what is gingelly oil in Odia, and how is it used in Odisha’s traditional medicine and cuisine?

I know that sesame oil is widely used in Ayurveda for abhyanga (oil massage), hair care, and even for internal cleansing. But I heard that in Odisha, gingelly oil in Odia is used in specific rituals and traditional recipes. What are some of the common ways people in Odisha use sesame oil?

Also, is gingelly oil in Odia used for any specific health benefits? In South India, people use it for oil pulling and as a body coolant. Does Odia traditional medicine follow the same principles?

If anyone from Odisha or familiar with gingelly oil in Odia can share insights, I’d love to know more about its regional significance and uses. Are there any special remedies or foods that rely on this oil?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Odisha, gingelly oil is called "Til Oil" (ତିଳ ତେଲ) in Odia. It is widely used in traditional medicine, rituals, and cuisine, much like in other parts of India. In Odisha, sesame oil is commonly used for body massage (abhyanga) to relieve muscle stiffness, improve circulation, and nourish the skin. It is also used in cooking, especially for preparing traditional dishes like "Dalma" and "Pakhala" (fermented rice), which are staple foods. In Odia culture, sesame oil plays a significant role in religious rituals, where it is often used in lighting lamps and during certain pujas to invoke blessings. Health-wise, sesame oil is considered a natural coolant, helping balance pitta dosha, and it may be used for oil pulling, similar to South Indian practices, to improve oral hygiene. It also aids in detoxification and promoting digestion. In addition to these benefits, it’s known for its nourishing properties for the skin and hair, with many using it for scalp massages to promote hair health and prevent dryness.

What Is the Meaning of Gingelly Oil in Odia, and How Is It Used Traditionally? - #12455

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