Ayurvedaic Massage

Ayurvedic massage benefits (Abhyanga benefits) are numerous according to the ancient Ayurvedic texts. The following scientific studies though reveal several Abhyanga benefits in specific health conditions and general massage benefits as well.

Ayurvedic Massage Benefits

Abhyanga is used as a preoperative procedure of Panch Karma, the five detox therapies of Ayurveda. It is also used as part of a management protocol for different disease conditions. In these studies, pure sesame oil or herbal oils were used for the Abhyanga. Abhyanga benefits are clearly demonstrated.

Reduction in Stress, Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

A pilot study investigating the effects of Ayurvedic Abhyanga massage on subjective stress experience showed high statistically and clinically significant reductions in subjective stress experience. A consequent analysis of physiologic data indicated likewise reductions in heart rate (HR). A blood pressure (BP) reduction was not recorded for the total sample but was found in the pre-hypertensive subgroup.

Findings indicate that Abhyanga massage is promising in reducing subjective stress experience. It may also be beneficial in lowering HR in all and BP in pre-hypertensive subjects.