As the air turns cool and dry in November, many Indian families bring back an old habit: a warm oil massage before the morning bath. In Ayurveda this daily self-massage is called abhyanga. Classical texts describe it as part of dinacharya (daily routine) and recommend it especially in the cold months, when Vata dosha is said to rise and skin tends to feel dry and rough.
This guide explains what abhyanga is, which classical oils are traditionally chosen for winter, how to do a simple home massage, and where to buy authentic oils online in India.
What is abhyanga?
Abhyanga is the practice of applying warm herbal oil to the whole body with gentle strokes, usually 15–30 minutes before a bath. Ayurveda traditionally values it for nourishing the skin, keeping the body supple and supporting a calm, rested feeling.
In winter (hemanta and shishira ritu), Ayurvedic texts describe the season as cold and dry. Warm, oily routines such as abhyanga are traditionally suggested to balance this dryness.
Popular Ayurvedic oils for winter abhyanga
Most classical massage oils use sesame oil (til tel) as the base, with herbs cooked into it by the taila paka method. Here are four well-known choices.
Ksheerabala Thailam
Ksheerabala is made from bala (Sida cordifolia), milk and sesame oil. It is traditionally used for nourishing massage and for head and foot massage at bedtime. Many people choose it as a gentle, everyday winter oil.
Shop: Kerala Ayurveda Ksheerabala Thailam – available in 200 ml, 450 ml and 5 litre packs.
Balaswagandhadi Thailam
This oil combines bala and ashwagandha in a sesame oil base. In Kerala Ayurveda it is traditionally used as a strengthening body massage oil, and it may support muscle comfort and a feeling of vitality during the colder months.
Balaswagandhadi Thailam is currently out of stock on Ayubazar. WhatsApp us on +91 94285 60666 and we will let you know when it is back.
Dhanwantharam Thailam
Dhanwantharam is a classical Kerala formulation with bala root, dashamoola herbs and milk. It is traditionally used in full-body massage, and in many Indian homes it is the familiar oil for massage after childbirth – always under the guidance of a doctor or vaidya.
Shop: Nagarjuna Ayurveda Dhanwantharam Thailam
Mahanarayan Tail
Mahanarayan oil contains a long list of herbs including shatavari and ashwagandha. It is traditionally used for local massage on the knees, back and shoulders, and may support comfort of muscles and joints in cold weather.
Shop: Dabur Mahanarayan Tail
You can also browse all oils and classical medicines from Kerala Ayurveda on Ayubazar.
Abhyanga oil prices online
Prices on Ayubazar (checked 14 Nov 2026; may change):
| Oil | Pack | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Dabur Mahanarayan Tail | 50 ml / 100 ml | ₹108 / ₹207 |
| Nagarjuna Dhanwantharam Thailam | 100 ml / 200 ml / 450 ml / 5 L | ₹126 / ₹225 / ₹449 / ₹4,229 |
| Kerala Ayurveda Ksheerabala Thailam | 200 ml / 450 ml / 5 L | ₹176 / ₹378 / ₹4,049 |
How to do abhyanga at home
- Warm the oil. Place the bottle in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes. It should feel comfortably warm, never hot.
- Start with the head and feet. Massage a little oil into the scalp, ears and soles – the areas Ayurveda traditionally gives special attention.
- Use long and circular strokes. Long strokes on the arms and legs; circular strokes on the joints, chest and abdomen (clockwise on the abdomen).
- Take your time. 10–15 minutes is enough for a daily routine.
- Rest, then bathe. Leave the oil on for 15–30 minutes, then bathe with warm water and a mild soap or traditional ubtan.
Tips for best results
- Massage on an empty or light stomach, ideally in the morning.
- Lay an old towel on the floor – oil can make the bathroom slippery.
- Use a patch test first if you have sensitive skin.
- Avoid abhyanga during fever, indigestion or right after a meal, as traditionally advised.
How to choose the right oil
- For everyday winter dryness and relaxation: Ksheerabala or plain sesame oil.
- For a strengthening body massage: Balaswagandhadi.
- For local massage on knees and back: Mahanarayan.
- For post-delivery massage: Dhanwantharam, only after advice from your doctor.
Body type (prakriti), age and season all matter in Ayurveda, so a vaidya can help you choose what suits you best.
Buy Ayurvedic massage oils online at Ayubazar
Ayubazar by Narayani and Company is rooted in Narayani Pharmacy since 1997 and has been online since 2017. We stock 6000+ Ayurvedic products from 80+ trusted brands, including Kerala Ayurveda, Nagarjuna and Dabur.
- Free shipping on orders above ₹499
- Cash on Delivery available
- Delivery: Gujarat (including Rajkot) in 1–3 business days; other states 5–7 business days (remote areas up to 10)
- Orders placed before 3 pm IST are dispatched the same day
- Website orders ship within India; for international orders, WhatsApp +91 94285 60666
Need help choosing an oil? Call or WhatsApp +91 94285 60666, or email support@ayubazar.com.
Frequently asked questions
Which oil is best for abhyanga in winter?
Sesame-based oils are traditionally preferred in winter. Ksheerabala is a popular gentle choice for daily use, while Balaswagandhadi and Mahanarayan are often chosen for a more strengthening massage. Ask a vaidya which one suits your body type.
Can I do abhyanga every day?
Ayurveda describes abhyanga as a daily routine. Many people massage daily in winter and 2–3 times a week in other seasons.
Should I leave the oil on overnight?
For body massage, 15–30 minutes before a bath is the usual practice. A little oil on the soles at bedtime is a common home tradition.
What is the price of Ksheerabala Thailam online?
On Ayubazar, Kerala Ayurveda Ksheerabala Thailam starts at ₹176, depending on pack size. Check the product page for current prices and offers.
Note: This article is for general information only. Ayurvedic oils are traditionally used for wellness and are not a substitute for medical care. Please consult your doctor or a qualified Ayurvedic vaidya before use, especially during pregnancy, after delivery, for children, or if you have a skin condition or any health concern.
हिंदी में पढ़ें: सर्दियों में अभ्यंग तेल
