Continuing on from my earlier post about the ancient Ayurvedic practice of oiling the navel, the Pechoti method, I thought I would delve a little deeper and shed some light on this practice. At the moment interest in this method is at a high and with good reason as it is purported to give a whole load of health benefits from the simple act and method of applying castor oil to the abdominal area via the navel.

Oiling the navel with castor oil, known as Nabhi Chikitsa in Ayurveda, is a revered practice that taps into the profound potential of holistic healing. According to Ayurvedic tradition, the navel is considered the epicentre of life energy, a critical hub where over 72,000 veins intersect. By applying castor oil to this vital area, one can harness its potent therapeutic properties, leading to a multitude of health benefits. Castor oil, renowned for its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying attributes, is absorbed through the navel, subsequently nourishing the body from within. This practice is believed to enhance digestive health, alleviate constipation, and support the detoxification process. The rich, thick consistency of castor oil allows it to penetrate deeply, promoting lymphatic drainage and aiding in the removal of toxins, thereby contributing to a balanced and revitalised system.

From a holistic perspective, the benefits of navel oiling extend beyond mere physical health, reaching the realms of mental and emotional well-being. The navel, or Nabhi, is also associated with the Manipura Chakra, the energy centre linked to personal power, confidence, and self-esteem. Regularly oiling the navel with castor oil can help balance this chakra, fostering a sense of inner strength and emotional stability. This simple yet profound practice encourages mindfulness and self-care, integrating seamlessly into a daily routine to promote holistic wellness. The calming ritual of applying warm castor oil to the navel not only soothes the body but also centres the mind, creating a harmonious connection between the physical and energetic bodies. For those seeking a natural, integrative approach to health, incorporating navel oiling with castor oil offers a nurturing pathway to achieve comprehensive well-being.

Method:

• Ensure the castor oil used is cold pressed, hexane free and ideally in a tinted glass bottle. This is to ensure you are getting all the benefits of the castor oil as well as ensuring that the oil retains its nutrients.

• Usually done before bedtime, add a couple drops of castor oil to the navel, this can be warm or room temperature. Massage the navel and abdomen area in a clockwise motion until the oil is fully absorbed into the skin.

While the practice of Ayurvedic nabhi chikitsa, or oiling the navel with castor oil, has deep roots in traditional medicine, contemporary research provides some evidence-based benefits that align with holistic health principles. Here are several key benefits supported by scientific and anecdotal evidence:

1. Improved Digestion:

- Stimulates Digestive Function: Applying castor oil to the navel can stimulate the digestive system, helping to regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation. A study published in the *Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine* highlights castor oil's effectiveness as a laxative, which supports its use in promoting digestive health when applied topically .

2. Enhanced Detoxification:

- Lymphatic Drainage: Castor oil is known to promote lymphatic drainage, which helps the body eliminate toxins. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in immune function and detoxification. Research indicates that castor oil packs can enhance lymphocyte production and activity, contributing to the body's detoxification processes .

3. Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

- Reduces Inflammation: Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. A study in the *International Journal of Molecular Medicine* found that topical application of castor oil significantly reduced inflammation and pain in patients with arthritis .

4. Skin Health:

- Moisturising and Healing Properties: Castor oil is a rich emollient that can hydrate and soothe dry or irritated skin. Its antimicrobial properties can also help prevent infections and promote healing of minor wounds and skin conditions .

5. Hormonal Balance:

- Supports Reproductive Health: Ayurvedic practitioners believe that applying oil to the navel can help balance hormones by affecting the reproductive organs. Though more scientific research is needed, some studies suggest that castor oil can improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, which may support menstrual health and alleviate symptoms of PMS .

6. Stress Reduction and Emotional Well-being:

- Promotes Relaxation: The ritual of navel oiling can be a calming practice that reduces stress and promotes emotional well-being. The act of massaging the navel area can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body relax and reduces stress levels. This is supported by the general understanding of the benefits of abdominal massage and its effects on the autonomic nervous system .

These benefits illustrate how the ancient practice of nabhi chikitsa aligns with modern holistic health principles, emphasising the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. By integrating this practice into daily routines, we can harness both traditional wisdom and contemporary insights to achieve overall well-being. In addition to this, the benefits of using castor oil can be further enhanced by the addition of various essential oils to address particular symptoms that we may be experiencing. For example, the addition of an essential oil like lavender to the castor oil acting as a carrier oil could be used to bring about relaxation, healthier skin because of its antiseptic properties, improve sleep or alleviate menstrual cramps to name but a few.

I hope this little guide is helpful for further exploration into nabhi chikitsa (navel oiling).

Eme x