Dr Kranthi R Vardhan - Weekly Newsletter - Issue#148

The Power of Sneha – Oil as Medicine in Ayurvedic Healing

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the 148th edition of our Ayurvedic Wellness newsletter! In Ayurveda, oil is more than a moisturizer—it is medicine, nourishment, and love. The Sanskrit word "Sneha" means both oil and affection, symbolizing how oils heal both the body and the emotions.

From head to toe, Ayurveda emphasizes the use of herbalized oils for massage (Abhyanga), internal use (Snehapana), and therapies like Vasti and Nasya. Sneha pacifies Vata, removes dryness, strengthens tissues, lubricates joints, supports mental clarity, and builds Ojas (immunity and vitality).

In this edition, we explore the many ways you can incorporate Sneha therapy into your daily life for deeper healing.

What is Sneha in Ayurveda?

Sneha is the use of medicated oils or ghee to restore balance and health. Sneha acts as:

  • Lubricant for the joints and skin

  • Carrier of herbs deep into tissues

  • Toxin remover when used in internal oleation (Snehapana)

  • Calmer of the nervous system

  • Builder of strength, nourishment, and love (Ojas)

Types of Sneha in Ayurveda

  1. Taila (Oil-based Sneha) – Primarily used for Vata and Kapha disorders

  2. Ghritha (Ghee-based Sneha) – Best for Pitta disorders, mental health, and rasayana

  3. Vasa/Majja (Animal fat/marrow) – Used in degenerative diseases, muscular wasting

  4. Ikshu Rasa (Sugarcane juice) – A milder Sneha used in rare classical contexts

Daily Sneha Practices (for Everyone!)

  1. Abhyanga (Self Oil Massage) – Before your bath, massage warm oil for 10–15 min

  2. Nasya (Nasal Drops) – 2 drops of Anu Taila in each nostril every morning

  3. Karna Purana (Ear Oil Drops) – Once a week, place warm sesame oil in ears

  4. Padabhyanga (Foot Massage) – Oil massage at night with ghee or castor oil

  5. Ghee in Diet – 1 tsp of cow’s ghee with warm rice or soups daily

Internal Oleation (Snehapana) for Deeper Detox

This is done under clinical supervision, using medicated ghee over 3–7 days to:

  • Prepare the body for Panchakarma

  • Scrape Ama (toxins) from deep tissues

  • Rejuvenate brain and nervous system

  • Improve complexion and voice

Only to be done under Ayurvedic doctor's guidance.

Benefits of Sneha Therapy

  • Relieves joint and muscle pain

  • Delays aging and improves skin elasticity

  • Nourishes nerves, improves sleep, reduces stress

  • Improves digestion, memory, and emotional resilience

  • Pacifies Vata and supports long-term immunity

When to Avoid Sneha:

  • During acute indigestion or diarrhea

  • In fever, cold, or sinus congestion

  • In cases of severe obesity, oil application may be limited to external use

  • Always consult before internal use if you are pregnant, diabetic, or have liver disorders

Final Thoughts

To be oiled is to be nourished, protected, and grounded. In the Ayurvedic tradition, Sneha is a daily act of self-love and deep healing. Especially in today’s fast-paced, anxious world, taking time to oil the body is taking time to connect with the self.

So tonight—before the shower—reach for your bottle of warm oil, and remember: you’re not just massaging your skin, you’re embracing your soul.

With warmth and care,
Dr. Kranthi R Vardhan
 www.vardhanayurveda.com

P.S. Want to experience full-body Sneha therapies like Abhyanga, Pizhichil, or Rejuvenation Therapies? Call us at 7997 108 108 to book a consultation or visit one of our 5 centers. Share this with someone who needs healing through touch. Access our Archieve here.