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Shiro-abhyanga (head oil massage)
शिरो अभ्यङ्ग
A listing is not a recommendation.
Origin: India · Tradition: Ayurveda · Manual therapy & points
What it is
Care of working oil into the scalp and hair. It is used for settling, sleep, and dryness of the hair. Unlike shirodhara (oil poured on the forehead), it is easier to do as self-care.
A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)
- With a small amount of an oil you are not allergic to, make circles on the scalp with the pads of the fingers.
- Keep it out of the eyes. Take care not to slip when bathing.
- Stop if you have an inflammatory scalp condition.
Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice
- Stress or unease
- Sleeplessness
- Dry skin
- Headache
Related symptom videos
Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)
D: Traditional use only. This review did not find enough clinical research on the practice itself
Clinical evidence beyond relaxation or moisturising is limited.
Sources
Safety notes
Falls from slipping on oil, inflammation of hair follicles, and essential oil in the eyes.
If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.
Situations in which this is better avoided
- A scalp infection or an open wound
- Dermatitis that worsens with oil