Hour 69 Ayurveda – Food Staples V
Oils – Ayurvedic Properties and Uses
Introduction:
Ayurveda classifies oils based on their taste, potency, and effects on the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Understanding the right oil for each season and condition is crucial for maintaining balance in the body.
1. Sesame Oil (Tila Taila):
A. Properties –
- Taste: Sweet, Bitter, Astringent
- Nature: Hot and Penetrative
- Potency: Hot
B. Effects on Doshas –
- Balances Vata
- May aggravate Pitta (not suitable for Pitta-related or blood-related disorders)
C. Uses & Benefits –
- Best for winters and for individuals with Vata Prakriti
- Improves hair growth and acts as an excellent hair tonic
- Enhances skin complexion (used for daily Abhyanga – body massage)
D. Precautions –
- May cause skin diseases in some individuals
- Not ideal for people with Pitta-related or blood-related disorders
- Not good for the eyes
2. Coconut Oil:
A. Properties –
- Taste: Sweet
- Nature: Heavy and Cooling
- Potency: Cold
B. Effects on Doshas –
- Increases Kapha
- Balances Pitta (good for Pitta Prakriti individuals)
C. Uses & Benefits –
- Best for summers (cooling effect)
- Prevents hair fall and premature greying
- Reduces burning sensation in the eyes
- Improves skin complexion
3. Castor Oil:
A. Properties –
- Taste: Sweet, Bitter
- Nature: Heavy to Digest
- Potency: Hot
B. Effects on Doshas –
- Balances Vata (best for Vata imbalances)
- May increase Pitta due to hot potency
C. Uses & Benefits –
- Strong laxative – helps in constipation relief
- Supports digestion and reduces bloating and flatulence
- Used in purification therapies in Ayurveda
D. Castor Oil Remedy for Constipation –
✓ Ingredients:
- 10ml Castor Oil
- 60ml Hot Water
- 2 Pinches Dry Ginger Powder
- 2 Pinches Rock Salt
✓ Instructions:
- Mix and drink after dinner
✓ Precautions:
- Can initially cause loose motions, stomach pain, or disturbed sleep
- Avoid in pregnancy (may cause miscarriage)
- Not suitable for individuals with bleeding disorders
4. Mustard Oil:
A. Properties –
- Taste: Pungent
- Nature: Light, Hot, Penetrative, and Sharp
- Potency: Hot
B. Effects on Doshas –
- Balances Vata and Kapha
- Increases Pitta
C. Uses & Benefits –
- Best for external application in extreme winters
- Improves circulation and warmth
D. Precautions –
- May cause skin diseases
- Harmful for the eyes
- Avoid if you have Pitta-related or blood disorders
Key Takeaways:
✓ Sesame oil is great for winters and Vata balance but may aggravate Pitta.
✓ Coconut oil is best for summers and Pitta-related issues.
✓ Castor oil is a strong laxative, useful for digestion but must be used cautiously.
✓ Mustard oil is warming but not suitable for Pitta individuals or those with sensitive skin.
✓ Understanding the right oil based on season and body type helps in maintaining overall health and well-being.