Navel oiling is an ancient Indic therapy of massaging the belly-button with a combination of pure ghee and other oils to achieve holistic health benefits. There are 72,000 vein endings in the navel, making the belly button a focal point for health. All these nerves get stimulated when the belly button is looked after. Navel oiling, according to Ayurveda, is known to treat various ailments in the body and hence has been included in the ‘Ratricharya’ or the night time routine. Ancient Ayurvedic texts, recognise that the time of the night is predominantly governed by the ‘Vata’ dosha, that is programmed for internal cleansing of the body as we sleep.
The life-sustaining umbilical cord internally stores energy and keeps the body in balance along with the five elements externally. As we grow, the belly button also matures into a hub that allows nutrients to transfer freely into the most intricate parts of the body. The fact that it touches base with so many nerves is enough to safely say that it is an important place of nourishment, and provider of abundant energy for our bodies and minds to thrive. The gut is considered the 2nd brain, key to digestion and immunity, the source of good skin and hair health. It is believed that the skin in the navel area is thinner and great for absorption of oils while it is connected to internal organs through nerves and veins.
Nabhira by Anahata is a concoction of specific oils infused with pure ghee, prepared traditionally as per Ayurvedic texts. It is the perfect oil blend that can be used for gut detox, hormonal balance, reduced menstrual pain and skin glow. Just 3 to 4 drops of this oil when massaged in the navel cavity will nurture, heal and detoxify you from deep within. Our ancestors knew the remarkable benefits of navel oiling on the nervous, endocrinal, reproductive and digestive systems of the body. The immense effect of this simple practice will result in improved digestion, reduced bloating, regulation of hormones and a balance of the Doshas.
- Benefits of navel oiling
Here are a few benefits of applying Nabhira every single night; remember that this elixir can be used by everyone no matter their age or gender.
- It will calm your mind rhythmically, stimulating the body to de-stress and relax.
- It will activate the parasympathetic nervous system and help you balance your thoughts.
- It will render a natural glow internally to the skin.
- It will help reduce inflammation, prevent skin allergies and keep the body feeling soft and hydrated.
- For those who snore loudly, applying Nabhira every night will reduce snoring and activate a deep sleep cycle.
- It will keep the hair silky, shiny and strong.
- It will reduce inflammation in the muscles and manage joint pain for you.
- It will help improve gut health, reduce IBS, acidity and gas.
- It will help fight PCOS and other hormonal imbalances by aligning the body in accordance with Prakriti and Doshas.
- It will reduce menstrual pain and help regularise your cycle.
Remember that the belly button is situated right at the center of the solar plexus, assuming a unique physical and spiritual significance to the body and mind. Also known as the Manipura chakra, this energy centre is known to promote clarity, confidence, strength, and compassion. Naval oiling with Nabhira on this point every night is a great way to stimulate this Chakra.
Here are the benefits of some of the key ingredients in Nabhira. It is its unique nature that got this product nominated for the Vogue Beauty Awards 2020, a few months after it was launched!
- Key Ingredients
A2 Ghee: a natural laxative, ghee is good for digestion, better skin health and good sleep.,
Lemon oil: Lemon oil is great for reproductive & hormonal health in men and women. It is also great to brighten the skin.,
Lavender: a Tridoshic ingredient that is great for stress relief, reducing insomnia and good hair health, lavender flowers are infused in this oil.,
Castor seed: A great ingredient for menstrual pain relief and a natural laxative, castor seed is a boon for the gut and reduces bloating in the body.,
Coconut oil: An anti-inflammatory ingredient that supports gut health, coconut oil is great to reduce constipation and lubricate the system. It hydrates the body internally.,
Almond oil: Almond oil is great to reduce bloating, improve blood circulation and better skin health. It is a rich source of antioxidants that soothe the body.,
Ashwagandha extract: An excellent herb to protect the gut lining and improve absorption of nutrients. Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic remedy for ailments and in mild doses, is great to calm the mind & body.,
Yashtimadhu extract: Mulethi or Yashtimadhu is a digestive boon that prevents gastric issues and stomach ulcers. It is anti-inflammatory and healing.
- Navel oiling and Reproductive Health
While scientific evidence directly linking navel oil application to improved fertility or conception is limited, it is believed to support reproductive health indirectly by improving hormonal balance, circulation, and stress reduction. Here’s how it may help:
1. Hormonal Balance
Oils like sesame, castor, or coconut are thought to nourish the body and support hormonal regulation, which is essential for ovulation and conception.
2. Improved Circulation
Massaging oil around the navel may enhance blood flow to the reproductive organs, supporting their function.
3. Stress Reduction
The practice of navel oiling can be relaxing, reducing stress levels. Lower stress supports balanced cortisol levels, which positively impact reproductive hormones.
4. Detoxification
Ayurvedic practices suggest that applying oil to the navel helps detoxify the body, potentially creating a healthier environment for conception.
- How to Use Navel Oil for Fertility
1. Choose the Right Oil: Use oils like castor, sesame, neem, or almond oil. Some also use specially formulated Ayurvedic fertility oils.
2. Application:
• Warm a few drops of oil.
• Apply it gently to the navel and massage in circular motions for a few minutes.
• Leave it on overnight or for a few hours before rinsing.
3. Frequency: Practice daily or as recommended by a practitioner.
- Scientific Perspective
While the benefits of navel oiling are primarily anecdotal, fertility and reproductive health depend on multiple factors, including lifestyle, hormonal health, and underlying medical conditions. If you are trying to conceive, consider navel oiling as a complementary practice while focusing on:
• A balanced diet.
• Regular exercise.
• Stress management.
• Consulting a fertility specialist for personalized advice.
Over 10,000+ people have seen the benefits of Nabhira and the practice of navel oiling. It is a simple yet powerful ritual that builds gut health and immunity naturally. If you want to start taking your gut heatlh seriously, we have a lovely combo of products that are made to improve gut health, digestion and metabolism. Shop our ‘Happy Gut Combo’