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Baby Massage and Sesame Oil
New mothers always seek solace in science when it comes to their babies as they want to do everything right. Even going as far as exploring scientific explanations for age-old practices. While some traditions lose their mettle in front of science, oil massage is one practice that hasn't been questioned but strongly backed by science.
Baby massage has been strongly advocated by our ancestors. It helps the baby relax and have a sound sleep. The oil with which you massage the baby also plays a significant part. Purest forms of oils like sesame oil, coconut oil, castor oil, and even ghee made from cow's milk can be used for an infant massage. Out of all these, sesame oil takes the cake due to its nature.
Benefits of Sesame Oil for Baby Massage
Warms the Body
Sesame oil is warming and provides the babies with warmth upon massaging, which is much needed in winters. The oil is quite thick hence needs to be warmed up before massaging on to the body. Heat the oil until it is warm to touch, and then massage generously on the skin. Its ability to generate heat and energy makes it ideal for winter months.
Detoxifies the Body
Sesame oil is also known for its detoxification properties. Not many massage oils do this. It is rich in antioxidants, which pulls the toxins from the skin during the massage process. The water-soluble toxins are then washed away. It also fights off free radicals that cause damage to your baby's tender skin. Damage caused by free radicals can cause cancer, Alzheimer's, etc.
Moisturizes the Skin
A baby's skin is still tender and not yet fully developed. It needs all the nutrition it can get. Sesame oil, with its rich minerals and vitamins, not only helps moisturize the skin but is also beneficial when absorbed. The zinc content boosts the collagen and helps the skin gain its elasticity.
Sesame oil is also touted to have natural SPF properties. Massage the oil onto the baby in the early morning hours and take him/her out in the sun to soak up some Vitamin D.
Promotes Hair Growth
Sesame oil is rich in vitamin B, vitamin E, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are known to increase hair growth. Regular application of the same also prevents premature greying and promotes healthy hair. When started young at an infant stage, it helps to retain the natural colour of the hair for a longer time.
Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory
Sesame oil is famous for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence it is used in all ayurvedic preparations and beauty treatments. Its antibacterial properties are potent against many strains of bacteria. It also has healthy fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and acts as a healing agent.
The Best Sesame Oil Products for Baby Massage
Ancient Living Sesame Baby Massage Oil
Nothing equals sesame oil in its purest form. The Ancient Living Sesame Baby Massage Oil is cold-pressed and is devoid of all mineral oils and additives. The cold-pressed process preserves all the important nutrients in the oil. Buy the 100% pure sesame oil for a baby massage from Amazon India for Rs. 320 for 200 ml.
Mama Earth Soothing Baby Massage Oil
Due to its soothing properties, sesame oil is found in many baby oil formulations. The Soothing Baby Massage Oil from Mama Earth is a blend of sesame, olive, jojoba, and almond oils. It is free from chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates, lipids, petroleum, mineral oils, and dyes. The 100% pure and natural oil is dermatologically tested for the baby's skin. It is priced at Rs. 399 for 200 ml and is available to buy on First Cry.
Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Black Sesame Seed Oil
Black sesame oil derived from the black sesame seeds is a potent powerhouse of nutrients such as iron, calcium, antioxidants, etc. Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it soothes irritated skin and moisturizes it effectively. The Extra Virgin Back Sesame Seed Oil from Bipha Ayurveda is cold-pressed to preserve the nutrients. Buy the oil for Rs. 790 (90ml) from Bipha Ayurveda.
Dasapushpadi Baby Body Massage Serum
Another famous Ayurvedic preparation using sesame oil for baby massage is Dasapushpadi Baby Body Massage Serum from Forest Essentials. The ancient preparation includes cows milk, coconut oil, kumud, liquorice, etc. along with sesame oil. It is deeply nourishing and softens the baby's skin. The gentle and non-greasy oil is available to buy from Forest Essentials India for Rs. 1,550.
Important Tips to Consider While Massaging Your Baby
Massaging your baby is a ritual vital for a baby's development. Massages soothe the baby and make him/her feel safe and secure. It also improves muscle tone while being relaxing. However, there are a few pointers you need to keep in mind if you and the baby are to enjoy the process together. Follow these and your massage time can easily be a bonding time.
- Get everything ready for your baby's massage and bath ready. This is to help you keep the baby in sight at all times.
- Position, so that the baby gets to see you.
- Your baby should be relaxed and neither sleepy nor hungry.
- If possible, have the massage on the floor. This prevents accidents when your baby is slippery from all the oil. He/She might also get to enjoy and be able to thrash around.
- Always use pure and organic oil for massage. This helps to make your movements smoother and also makes it enjoyable for the baby.
- Use long strokes, firm enough but not hurting.
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Try to Use Only the Purest Forms of Sesame Oils!
Since sesame oil is nourishing, it is used in many ayurvedic preparations, particularly when it comes to babies. Be it a sesame oil preparation or sesame oil itself, it should be used in its purest form, free from additives and adulterations. In this post, we brought a few preparations that suit a baby's skin and nourish it from within. Keep following BP-Guide for more informative content like this.