fbpx

What is navel oiling?

Why are people putting oil in their belly buttons? And are there any actual benefits to the trend?

As far as trends go, navel oiling is one of the strangest, especially to those who are not familiar with the Ayurvedic tradition. Even so, the proponents of the practice swear that putting oil in their belly buttons has improved their health and lives…

What is navel oiling? 

Well, in a nutshell, it’s an Ayurvedic practice where people first stimulate the area in and around the belly button, and then place one to three drops of a single-origin oil directly inside the navel. This is then followed by a small cotton ball whose purpose is to stop the oil from dripping out of the belly button.

Those who practise navel oiling usually do so before bedtime and, as mentioned, always opt for single-origin oil, like castor oil made from ripe seeds of the castor plant, or ghee, which is basically clarified butter. 

Why would it work?

Before we get into the supposed benefits of navel oiling, we need to question why placing anything inside the belly button would make a difference. To those who believe in the benefits of navel oiling, the logic is simple: the belly button is how we first get our nutrients in the womb and, even after birth, it remains connected to the vagus nerve, the longest nervous system in our bodies. 

What are the benefits?

According to those who practise navel oiling, the benefits can be numerous, including  aiding digestion, boosting immunity, improving hydration, resulting in better skin, helping with weight loss , and even enhancing fertility. Some say that it can help with detoxification, stress relief, and insomnia.

Sadly, though, there is currently no scientific research to back any of these specific claims, although a 2023 study showed that Chinese medicine applied to the belly button did have some benefits for children suffering from diarrhoea. 

The great thing about navel oiling is that there is very little that can go wrong: at worst, you’ll have an oily belly button to clean out; while, at best, it can help with some or all of the things above.

As always, do consult a doctor before trying out any alternative medicine.

Total
0
Shares
Related Posts
yanas-jewellery
Read More

Statement jewellery and unique pieces

Since opening her first shop in 2013, Yana Azzopardi has built a loyal army of followers who religiously don her range of elegant and handmade jewellery. We caught up with her as she celebrates her tenth anniversary milestone.