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Mustard oil has been a part of our lives for as long as we can remember. It has traveled with our ancestors across borders, lit lamps in the darkest nights, listened to lullabies by our dadis and nanis, and remained at the center of many a sizzle resounding from the kitchen. We may hardly find any resemblance between the world we grew up in and what it is today, but if there’s one thing that has remained constant, it is the unparalleled legacy of mustard oil.
As babies, we had our bodies slathered with mustard oil, and in turn, we kept up the tradition by slathering it on the tiny tots of this generation. Even now, the aroma of pure mustard oil brings back memories of bright, sunny days spent on rooftops or porches, listening to the many fairy tales our grandmothers weaved on the spot.
Mustard oil massages are vital for growing babies for numerous reasons, and it’s no surprise that they are still common in almost every Indian household.
Advantages Of Mustard Oil
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of mustard oil massages.
- Improves Blood Circulation
Mustard oil works wonders in enhancing blood circulation. Regular massages can make babies strong and healthy.
- Helps Store Body Heat
Mustard oil keeps the body warm and helps retain heat by working as an insulator. That’s why it is the go-to oil for babies in winter.
- Works As A Decongestant
When applied on a baby’s chest, mustard oil is believed to ward off cough and cold with its sharp aroma to some extent. Many parents add garlic cloves and basil leaves to the oil and heat the concoction before massaging.
- Combats Skin Infections
Mustard oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties (1). When used to massage babies, it may reduce the chances of skin infections, redness, and rashes.
- Improves Hair Health
Babies have thin hair that needs regular care, and mustard oil helps improve scalp and hair health. In addition, the oil is a rich source of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, which aid hair growth.
- Works As A Mosquito Repellent
Being constantly surrounded by mosquitoes may pose a threat to babies, especially during the summer and monsoon months. Studies suggest that mustard oil shows spatial repellency against mosquitoes (2).
- Helps Strengthen Bones And Muscles
Mustard oil massages help develop and strengthen the delicate bones and muscles of growing babies.
- Believed To Provide Relief From Asthma
Warm mustard oil mixed with camphor has been used to provide relief from asthmatic symptoms for ages. However, the claim needs more research.
The Right Mustard Oil For Babies
The varieties of mustard oil are endless, and as parents and caregivers, we must choose what’s best for our children. Listed below are three things to remember while selecting the right mustard oil for your child:
- Purity
We must use mustard oil in its purest form while keeping in mind that it must be fit for babies. A gentle massage with the right oil can work wonders for your baby.
- Consistency
While choosing the right mustard oil for baby massages, we must consider its consistency. For instance, oils with a runny texture may only retain moisture for a short time. Moreover, we may have to use large quantities, which will eventually lead us to repurchase it frequently.
On the other hand, we must also ensure that the oil isn’t thick enough to clog pores. Finding the right balance is key. Mustard oil with a smooth, velvety consistency works as an effective moisture sealant, and we only require a small amount for our babies.
- Quality
Formerly, people used to mix herbs with mustard oil, heat it, and apply the concoction on babies. At present, however, most of us may not have time for such elaborate processes. Besides, overheating the oil or bringing it to a boiling point may cause it to lose its natural properties. Therefore, while selecting mustard oil for babies, it is best to go for those already infused with the goodness of authentic herbs. Check the list of ingredients and make your choice accordingly.
Himalaya Baby Mustard Massage Oil
A trusted and authentic brand like Himalaya is known for its uncompromising quality. With the wisdom of tradition and the promise of purity, their mustard oil is everything that traditional mustard oil stands for and more! It is also free from synthetic colors, parabens, and mineral oils.
It offers the following benefits to babies:
- Helps nourish the skin
- Helps improve skin luster
- Combats dry skin with its moisturizing properties
Ingredients In Himalaya Baby Mustard Massage Oil
The mustard oil by Himalaya contains a rich blend of authentic herbs, like
- Olive Oil: Nourishes and softens the skin
- Winter Cherry: Improves muscle tone
- Vetiver: Has soothing and cooling properties
- Country Mallow: Promotes muscle strength
- Aloe Vera: Moisturizes the skin
- Mustard: Helps relieve itchiness and keep skin disorders at bay
The gentle formula of this oil is clinically tested and scientifically developed by combining traditional wisdom with modern science. It is also easily available and affordable, so that’s a win!
We always want the best for our children, whether in food choices or educational institutions. So, why compromise when it comes to skincare? Choose what’s best for your little angel. Choose Himalaya.
References
- Antimicrobial properties and mode of action of mustard and cinnamon essential oils and their combination against foodborne bacteria:
https://pubag.nal.usda.gov/catalog/5270841 - Mustard oil shows efficient spatial repellency against Anopheles stephensi Liston:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/349979376_Mustard_oil_shows_efficient_spatial_repellency_against_Anopheles_stephensi_Liston
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