How to use a herbal massage oil for everyday aches

A warm oil massage is one of the oldest habits in Ayurvedic self-care. Here is how to get the most from GreatOxy Pain oil in ten minutes a day.

After a long day on your feet, at a desk or in the field, most of us bring some stiffness home in our knees, back or shoulders. Massage with warm herbal oil, called abhyanga in Ayurveda, has been part of Indian homes for generations. It takes ten minutes and needs nothing more than a bottle of oil and a quiet corner.

What goes into GreatOxy Pain oil

Pain oil is a traditional blend made for external use. Every bottle combines:

  • Sesame oil (Tila taila), the classic base oil of Ayurvedic massage
  • Nirgundi, a herb long used in massage oils across India
  • Eranda (castor) and Singru, traditional massage-oil herbs
  • Lasuna (garlic)
  • Camphor, which gives the oil its cool, fresh feel

How to use it

  1. Warm the bottle for a minute in a bowl of warm water. Never heat the oil directly on the stove.
  2. Pour about a teaspoon into your palm for one knee or shoulder.
  3. Massage in slow circles over joints and long strokes along muscles, for five to ten minutes.
  4. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, then wipe it off or take a warm bath.
  5. Repeat once or twice a day, ideally at the same time each day.

Small habits that help

  • Massage after a warm bath, when your muscles are already relaxed
  • Walk or stretch gently through the day to keep joints moving
  • Drink enough water and keep a steady sleep routine

For a daily routine from the inside too, see O2 Ortho, our joint and muscle support formula.

Use it safely

  • For external use only. Do not apply on cuts, wounds or broken skin.
  • Keep it away from your eyes, and wash your hands after use.
  • Try a small patch on your inner arm first, and stop if your skin turns red or itches.
  • Oils with camphor are not for young children. If you are pregnant, check with your doctor first.
  • Pain that is sudden, severe or lasts more than a few days needs a doctor, not an oil.

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