Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
Pain Relief through Massage Oils
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
General Medicine
Question #68
315 days ago
375

Pain Relief through Massage Oils - #68

Gangopadhyaya

I’ve heard about the benefits of Ayurvedic oils for massage. Can you explain how they work for pain relief and relaxation? Which oils are best for different conditions?

Age: 34
Chronic illnesses: None
FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Ayurvedic oils are used extensively in traditional practices to alleviate pain due to their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and muscle-relaxant properties. There are hundreds of medicated oils mentioned in Ayurveda. Here’s how they help:

1. Natural Ingredients Ayurvedic oils are often infused with therapeutic herbs such as: Sesame, Ginger, Dashamoola, Guduchi, Bala, Ashwagandha etc

2. Warmth and Absorption Applying warm oils enhances blood circulation and promotes the absorption of medicinal properties through the skin, leading to quicker pain relief.

3. Muscle Relaxation Oils such as sesame or coconut oil, when massaged into the affected area, help relax tense muscles and alleviate stiffness.

4. Enhanced Circulation Massage with Ayurvedic oils increases blood flow, which helps reduce inflammation and speeds up the healing process.

5. Nervous System Calming Certain oils, such as those containing lavender or eucalyptus, can have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing pain perception.

6. Dosha Balancing Ayurvedic oils can be selected based on an individual’s dosha, helping to restore balance and address the root causes of pain, whether it’s due to Vata (dryness), Pitta (heat), or Kapha (congestion).

Commonly Used Oils Mahanarayan oil: For joint and muscle pain. Kottamchukkadi oil: Effective for arthritis and chronic pain. Dhanvantaram oil: Used for overall rejuvenation and pain relief. Conclusion Regular application of Ayurvedic oils through massage or as part of therapies can significantly reduce pain and enhance overall well-being. For chronic or severe pain, consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner for tailored recommendations is advisable.

11913 answered questions
78% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
315 days ago
4.83

Yes, Ayurvedic oils have been used for centuries to provide relief from pain and promote relaxation. The key principle behind Ayurvedic oil massage, known as ‘Abhyanga,’ is that it helps balance the doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—while also improving circulation and calming the nervous system. Each oil is carefully prepared with herbs that penetrate the skin, delivering therapeutic benefits to deeper tissues.

For pain relief, we use specific medicated oils that reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and nourish the joints and muscles. Oils like Murivenna are excellent for healing injuries such as sprains, fractures, and burns. It contains ingredients like coconut oil and medicinal herbs that promote rapid healing. For joint pain and stiffness, Dhanwantharam Thailam is commonly used. It strengthens muscles and improves flexibility, making it ideal for arthritis or post-injury recovery.

For overall relaxation and stress relief, oils like Ksheerabala Thailam and Chandanadi Thailam are very effective. Ksheerabala, made from sesame oil and Bala herb, is known for its calming effect on the nervous system and can help with insomnia and mental fatigue. Chandanadi Thailam, with sandalwood as a key ingredient, has cooling properties that soothe the mind and body, making it excellent for Pitta imbalances.

Each oil is selected based on the individual’s body type (Prakriti) and the specific condition being treated. For example, someone with a Vata imbalance may benefit from warm, heavy oils like Mahanarayan Thailam for deep pain relief and nourishment. On the other hand, those with Pitta imbalances may need cooling oils like Chandanadi to reduce inflammation and heat in the body.

Massage with these oils not only relieves physical discomfort but also promotes the flow of Prana (life force), improving your overall vitality and mental well-being. Would you like to discuss any specific pain or concerns so I can recommend the most suitable oil for you?

13739 answered questions
68% best answers

0 replies

Ah massage oils, they can do wonders, right? In Ayurveda, oils are not just something we slather on. They’re a deep part of healing practice, rooted in centuries-old wisdom. The way these oils work is quite fascinating, actually. They penetrate through the skin layers, reaching deeper tissues and muscles, helping relieve pain and tension. Think of it as a way to improve circulation, soothe nerves, and balance your doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).

Which oils to use? That depends on your specific condition or imbalance. For general tension and relaxation, sesame oil is often recommended – it’s warming and grounding, good for Vata types with their tendency for cold and dryness. If you’ve got inflammation or are dealing with Pitta issues - you know, stuff like anger or skin rashes, coconut oil might be your friend because it’s cooling.

Got joint pain or arthritis? Mahanarayan oil could be beneficial as it’s quite popular in traditional therapies and contains a mix of herbs that support joint health. If you’re into sweet smells, pinda taila has a lovely aroma and is used for chronic pain with a cooling effect.

Oh, and here’s a thought - Ashwagandha oil is great for strengthening and nourishing too! Helps calm Vata and reduce anxiety, it’s kinda like giving yourself a big warm hug.

Now, how you use them matters too. Warm the oil slightly before applying – this increases its absorption. Massage in long strokes toward the heart – that compliments natural flow in the body.

It’s crucial though to consider your personal constitution and any current health issues you might have. If in doubt, consult a professional to tailor it perfectly. And never ignore severe pain; Ayurveda supports but doesn’t replace urgent care when needed, remember. Small quirks aside, hope this gives you a good start. Maybe try a bit and see how it feels for you!

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Ravi Chandra Rushi
I am working right now as a Consultant Ayurvedic Ano-Rectal Surgeon at Bhrigu Maharishi Ayurvedic Hospital in Nalgonda—and yeah, that name’s quite something, but what really keeps me here is the kind of cases we get. My main focus is managing ano-rectal disorders like piles (Arsha), fistula-in-ano (Bhagandara), fissure-in-ano (Parikartika), pilonidal sinus, and rectal polyps. These are often more complex than they look at first, and they get misdiagnosed or overtreated in a lotta places. That’s where our classical tools come in—Ksharasutra therapy, Agnikarma, and a few other para-surgical techniques we follow from the Samhitas...they’ve been lifesavers honestly. My work here pushes me to keep refining surgical precision while also sticking to the Ayurvedic core. I do rely on modern diagnostics when needed, but I won’t replace the value of a well-done Nadi Pariksha or assessing dosha-vikruti in depth. Most of my patients come with pain, fear, and usually after a couple of rounds of either incomplete surgeries or just being fed painkillers n antibiotics. And I totally get that frustration. That’s why I combine surgery with a whole support plan—Ayurvedic meds, diet changes, lifestyle tweaks that actually match their prakriti. Not generic stuff off a handout. Over time, I’ve seen that when people follow the whole protocol, not just the procedure part, the recurrence drops a lot. I’m quite particular about follow-up and wound care too, ‘cause we’re dealing with delicate areas here and ignoring post-op can ruin outcomes. Oh and yeah—I care a lot about educating folks too. I talk to patients in OPD, sometimes give community talks, just to tell people they do have safer options than cutting everything out under GA! I still study Shalya Tantra like it’s a living document. I try to stay updated with whatever credible advancements are happening in Ayurvedic surgery, but I filter what’s fluff and what’s actually useful. At the end of the day, my aim is to offer respectful, outcome-based care that lets patients walk out without shame or fear. That’s really what keeps me grounded in this field.
5
8 reviews
Dr. Anjali Sehrawat
I am Dr. Anjali Sehrawat. Graduated BAMS from National College of Ayurveda & Hospital, Barwala (Hisar) in 2023—and right now I'm doing my residency, learning a lot everyday under senior clinicians who’ve been in the field way longer than me. It’s kind of intense but also really grounding. Like, it makes you pause before assuming anything about a patient. During my UG and clinical rotations, I got good hands-on exposure... not just in diagnosing through Ayurvedic nidan but also understanding where and when Allopathic tools (like lab reports or acute interventions) help fill the gap. I really believe that if you *actually* want to heal someone, you gotta see the whole picture—Ayurveda gives you that depth, but you also need to know when modern input is useful, right? I’m more interested in chronic & lifestyle disorders—stuff like metabolic imbalances, stress-linked issues, digestive problems that linger and slowly pull energy down. I don’t rush into giving churnas or kashayams just bcz the texts say so... I try to see what fits the patient’s prakriti, daily habits, emotional pattern etc. It’s not textbook-perfect every time, but that’s where the real skill grows I guess. I do a lot of thinking abt cause vs symptom—sometimes it's not the problem you see that actually needs solving first. What I care about most is making sure the treatment is safe, ethical, practical, and honest. No overpromising, no pushing meds that don’t fit. And I’m always reading or discussing sth—old Samhitas or recent journals, depends what the case demands. My goal really is to build a practice where people feel seen & understood, not just “managed.” That's where healing actually begins, right?
5
1 reviews
Dr. Anupriya
I am an Ayurvedic doctor trained at one of the most reputed institutes (yeah, the kind that makes u sweat but also feel proud lol) where I completed my BAMS with 70%—not just numbers but real grind behind it. My focus during & after graduation has always been on treating the patient not just the disease, and honestly that philosophy keeps guiding me even now. I usually see anywhere around 50 to 60 patients a day, sometimes more if there's a health camp or local rush. It’s hectic, but I kinda thrive in that rhythm. What matters to me is not the number but going deep into each case—reading every complaint, understanding symptoms, prakriti, current state, season changes etc. and putting together a treatment that feels “right” for that person, not just for the condition. Like, I don’t do one-size-fits-all plans. I sit down, make case reports (yup, proper handwritten notes sometimes), observe small shifts, modify herbs, suggest diet tweaks, even plan rest patterns when needed. I find that holistic angle super powerful. And patients feel it too—some who come in dull n restless, over weeks show clarity, skin settles, energy kinda gets back... that makes the day worth it tbh. There’s no shortcut to trust, and i get that. Maybe that’s why patients keep referring their siblings or maa-papa too. Not bragging, but when people say things like “you actually listened” or “I felt heard”, it stays in the back of my mind even when I’m dog tired lol. My goal? Just to keep learning, treating honestly and evolving as per what each new case teaches me. Ayurveda isn’t static—it grows with u if u let it. I guess I’m just walking that path, one custom plan at a time.
5
4 reviews
Dr. Prasad Pentakota
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. P. Prasad, and I’ve been in this field for 20+ years now, working kinda across the board—General Medicine, Neurology, Dermatology, Cardiology—you name it. Didn’t start out thinking I’d end up spanning that wide, but over time, each area sort of pulled me in deeper. And honestly, I like that mix. It lets me look at a patient not just through one lens but a whole system-wide view... makes more sense when treating something that won’t fit neatly in one category. I’ve handled everything from day-to-day stuff like hypertension, diabetes, or skin infections to more serious neuro and cardiac problems. Some cases are quick—diagnose, treat, done. Others take time, repeated check-ins, figuring out what’s really going on beneath those usual symptoms. And that’s where the detail matters. I’m pretty big on thorough diagnosis and patient education—because half the problem is ppl just not knowing what’s happening inside their own body. What’s changed for me over years isn’t just knowledge, it’s how much I lean on listening. If you miss what someone didn’t say, you might also miss their actual illness. And idk, after seeing it play out so many times, I do believe combining updated medical practice with basic empathy really shifts outcomes. Doesn’t have to be complicated... it just has to be consistent. I keep up with research too—new drugs, diagnostics, cross-specialty updates etc., not because it’s trendy, but cuz it’s necessary. Patients come in better read now than ever. You can’t afford to fall behind. The end goal’s the same tho—help them heal right, not just fast. Ethical practice, evidence-based, and sometimes just being there to explain what’s going on. That’s what I stick to.
5
279 reviews
Dr. Isha Bhardwaj
I am someone who kinda learned early that medicine isn’t just about protocols or pills—like, it’s more about people, right? I did my BAMS with proper grounding in both classical Ayurveda and also the basics of modern med, which honestly helped me see both sides better. During internship, I got to work 6 months at Civil Hospital Sonipat—very clinical, very fast paced—and the other 6 at our own Ayurvedic hospital in the college. That mix showed me how blending traditional and integrative care isn't just theory, it actually works with real patients. After that I joined Kbir Wellness, an Ayurvedic aushdhalaya setup, where I dived into Naadi Pariksha—like really deep. It’s weird how much you can tell from pulse if you just listen right?? Doing regular consultations there sharpened my sense of prakriti, vikriti and how doshas show up subtle first. I used classical Ayurvedic texts to shape treatment plans, but always kept the patient’s routine, mental space and capacity in mind. Also I was part of some health camps around Karnal and Panipat—especially in govt schools and remote areas. That part really stays with me. You get to help ppl who dont usually have access to consistent care, and you start valuing simple awareness more than anything. I kinda think prevention should be a bigger focus in Ayurveda, like we keep talking about root cause but don’t always reach people before it gets worse. My whole method is pretty much built around that—root-cause treatment, yes, but also guiding patients on how to live with their body instead of fighting symptoms all the time. I rely a lot on traditional diagnostics like Naadi, but I mix that with practical therapies they can actually follow. No point in giving hard-to-do regimens if someone’s already overwhelmed. I keep it flexible. Most of my plans include dietary changes, natural formulations, lifestyle corrections and sometimes breathwork, daily rhythms and all that. I’m not here to just “treat illness”—what I really aim for is helping someone feel like they’ve got a handle on their own health again. That shift from just surviving to kinda thriving... that’s what I look for in every case.
5
283 reviews
Dr. Chaitrali Rajendra Tambe
I am someone who really believes that Ayurveda isn’t just about giving herbs and oils—it's more like a whole way of looking at the body, the habits, the food, and how everything connects together. I got solid training in Ayurvedic clinical practice and feel most confident when I'm using therapies like Panchakarma or planning proper Shodhana for someone who's stuck in a cycle of chronic illness or stress-related issues. There’s just something powerful about seeing how classical cleansing can bring that shift in energy and clarity for ppl who've tried everything else. I work a lot on dosha assessment—sometimes it takes a bit of digging cause symptoms don’t always line up in a textbook way. But once I figure out what’s really going off-balance, I try to make treatment super personalized. It’s not just about giving a kashayam or lepa... I spend time explaining diet changes, routines, sleep timing, and even emotional triggers when needed. Many people don’t realise how big a role lifestyle play in their conditions. Right now, I’m mostly focused on lifestyle disorders and detox-based therapies. Things like PCOS, fatty liver, skin allergies, joint stiffness, IBS, anxiety-linked issues… those come up a lot. I try not to rush. I’d rather go slow n consistent, combining classical concepts with modern diagnostics if needed. Blood tests, reports, scans—they help me track things while still keeping the treatment Ayurvedic in core. I’m also pretty organized about documenting my cases—not just for reference but to understand patterns better. I guess every case teaches you something new, even after hundreds of patients. And I do keep learning, whether it’s updating protocols or trying to refine a virechana schedule that didn’t go as planned. In the end, for me it’s really about finding that balance for each person... not just patching the symptom. I think that’s where Ayurveda really shines.
5
7 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
45 reviews
Dr. Khushboo
I am someone who kinda started out in both worlds—Ayurveda and allopathy—and that mix really shaped how I see health today. My clinical journey began with 6 months of hands-on allopathic exposure at District Hospital Sitapur. Honestly, that place was intense. Fast-paced, high patient flow, constant cases of chronic and acute illnesses coming through. That taught me a lot about how to see disease. Not just treat it, but like… notice the patterns, get better at real-time diagnosis, really listen to what the patient isn’t saying out loud sometimes. It gave me this sharper sense of clinical grounding which I think still stays with me. Then I moved more deeply into Ayurveda and spent another 6 months diving into clinical training focused on Panchakarma therapies. Stuff like Abhyanga, Basti, Shirodhara—learned those not just as a list of techniques, but how and when to use 'em, especially for detox and deep healing. Every case felt like a different puzzle. There wasn’t always one right answer, you know? And that’s where I found I loved adapting protocols based on what the person actually needed, not just what the textbook says. Alongside that, I got certified in Garbha Sanskar through structured training. That really pulled me closer to maternal health. Pregnancy support through Ayurveda isn’t just about herbs or massage, it’s like this entire way of guiding a mother-to-be toward nourishing the baby right from conception—emotionally, physically, all of it. That part stuck with me hard. My overall approach? It’s kinda fluid. I believe in balancing natural therapies and evidence-based thinking. Whether it's seasonal imbalance, hormonal issues, Panchakarma detox plans, or just guiding someone on long-term wellness—I like making people feel safe, heard, and actually understood. I’m not into rushing plans or masking symptoms. I’d rather work together with someone to build something sustainable that really suits their body and where they’re at. In a way, I’m still learning every day. But my focus stays the same—use Ayurvedic wisdom practically, compassionately, and in a way that just... makes sense in real life.
5
60 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Narendrakumar V Mishra
I have been practicing as a Consulting Ayurvedic Physician since 1990, with over three decades of clinical experience in treating a wide range of chronic and lifestyle-related health conditions. My core areas of focus include hair disorders, skin diseases, and lifestyle disorders such as diabetes, arthritis, and stress-related imbalances. Over the years, I have developed a patient-centric approach that emphasizes deep-rooted healing through authentic Ayurvedic principles. My treatment philosophy is based on understanding the unique constitution (prakriti) and imbalance (vikriti) of each patient, allowing me to craft individualized care plans using classical formulations, diet corrections, detox therapies (shodhana), and lifestyle modifications. Whether it’s persistent hair fall, recurring skin allergies, or long-term metabolic disorders, I aim to address the root cause rather than just suppress symptoms. In the management of lifestyle disorders like diabetes and arthritis, I integrate Ayurvedic medicines with structured dinacharya (daily routines) and ahar (dietary guidance), focusing on sustainable results and long-term wellness. I also work extensively with stress-related concerns, offering holistic strategies that incorporate mind-body practices, including meditation, herbal support, and counseling rooted in Ayurveda. With a strong foundation in traditional Ayurvedic texts and decades of hands-on experience, I remain committed to providing safe, natural, and effective healthcare solutions. My goal is to guide patients toward a balanced life, free from chronic ailments, through personalized treatment protocols that restore harmony to both body and mind.
5
363 reviews

Latest reviews

Addison
13 hours ago
This advice was super helpful, really appreciated the detailed explanation. I've already started on the recommended practices, feeling hopeful!
This advice was super helpful, really appreciated the detailed explanation. I've already started on the recommended practices, feeling hopeful!
Charlotte
13 hours ago
Thanks a lot for the detailed advice! Really appreciate the clear and practical ayurvedic solutions you provided. Feeling more hopeful now.
Thanks a lot for the detailed advice! Really appreciate the clear and practical ayurvedic solutions you provided. Feeling more hopeful now.
Mateo
13 hours ago
Thanks so much for your detailed answer! It really helped me understand my issues better. Appreciate the care and treatment tips.
Thanks so much for your detailed answer! It really helped me understand my issues better. Appreciate the care and treatment tips.
Wyatt
13 hours ago
Thanks for the detailed answer! Really helpful and easy to follow advice. Fingers crossed this works for me. Appreciate it a lot!
Thanks for the detailed answer! Really helpful and easy to follow advice. Fingers crossed this works for me. Appreciate it a lot!