Sesame Oil: Ayurveda’s Ultimate Winter Oil for Dry Skin, Body & Hair

Winter can be harsh on the body and skin. Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating often leave our skin dry, tight, and irritated. According to Ayurveda, the best oil to balance winter dryness is Sesame Oil, also known as Til Taila.

Warm, nourishing, and deeply penetrating, sesame oil has been used for centuries as a winter essential from full-body massage to Nabhi Purana (navel oiling) & Foot Massage before sleep.

Unlike lighter oils that remain on the surface, sesame oil is known in Ayurveda for its ability to penetrate deeply. It absorbs through the skin and works across all seven tissue layers (sapta dhatus) helping relieve dryness, nourish the body at a deeper level, support circulation, and restore a sense of grounding during colder months.

This depth of action is why sesame oil is used as the base for most classical Ayurvedic oils chosen for its unmatched ability to carry herbs and nourishment deep into the system. If there’s one oil the body truly craves in winter, it’s sesame oil warming, deeply nourishing, and timeless.

Why Ayurveda Prefers Sesame Oil in Winter

Unlike lighter oils that remain on the surface, sesame oil is known for its deep-penetrating nature.

Ayurveda explains that sesame oil:

• Absorbs through the skin
• Works across all seven tissue layers (Sapta Dhatus)
• Nourishes the body at a deeper level
• Helps restore warmth, circulation, and grounding

This unique penetration is why nearly 94% of classical Ayurvedic oils use sesame oil as their base it acts as a powerful carrier, delivering herbs and nourishment deep into the system.

If there’s one oil the body truly craves in winter, it’s sesame oil warming, strengthening, and timeless.

Nutrients in Sesame Oil (Why It Heals Dryness)

Sesame oil is naturally rich in:

• Vitamin E – repairs dryness and supports skin elasticity
• Omega 6 & 9 fatty acids – strengthen the skin barrier
• Sesamol & Sesamin – powerful antioxidants that protect skin and hair
• Zinc & Calcium – support scalp health, hair strength, and nails

These nutrients don’t just moisturise—they repair and rebuild.

Why Sesame Oil Over Other Oils in Winter?

While coconut oil works better in summer, it can feel too cooling in winter.

Sesame oil:

• Provides lasting nourishment
• Supports warmth and circulation
• Pacifies dryness and stiffness
• Suits most skin and body types in cold weather

Everyday Winter Uses of Sesame Oil

• Hand oil: Massage a few drops after washing hands to prevent dryness and cracks.
• Cuticle care: Strengthens nails and softens dry, brittle cuticles.
• Elbows & knees: Deeply nourishes rough areas and relieves stiffness.
• Neck massage: Warming massage to ease stiffness and support comfort during seasonal dryness and cough.
• Foot massage: Grounds the body, calms the nervous system, and promotes deeper sleep.
• Nabhi Purana (navel oiling): Apply a few warm drops in the navel to support digestion, immunity, and overall balance.
• Hair care: Massage into the scalp to nourish roots, reduce dryness, and support stronger, healthier hair.
• Oil pulling: Swish warm sesame oil in the morning to support oral hygiene, detoxification, and overall wellness.

DIY Winter Rituals with Sesame Oil

1. DIY Winter Body Massage (Abhyanga)

Warm sesame oil slightly and massage the entire body before bathing.
Helps improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and keep the body warm and nourished.

2. DIY Youth Serum (Winter Face Oil)

Blend:

• Sesame oil – 75 ml
• Castor oil – 5 ml
• Almond oil – 20 ml
• Rose essential oil – 10 drops

Use 2–3 drops at night on damp skin for deep nourishment and glow.

3. DIY Overnight Face Nourishment

Mix 2 drops of sesame oil with a few drops of rose water.
Massage gently on dry areas before bed.

4. DIY Cracked Heel Repair

Massage warm sesame oil on heels before sleeping.
Wear cotton socks overnight for visible softness.

Ohria Cold-Pressed Sesame Oil

In winter rituals and Ayurvedic care, sesame oil is only as powerful as its purity. Ohria’s Cold-Pressed Sesame Oil is crafted using the traditional slow-press method, without heat or chemicals, so the oil retains its natural potency and integrity.

This careful process results in an oil that absorbs deeply, nourishes from within, and restores balance to dry, fatigued skin exactly as Ayurveda intended. Rich, grounding, and naturally warming, Ohria’s sesame oil supports daily abhyanga, nabhi purana, and seasonal self-care rituals with visible softness, comfort, and vitality.

Pure in process. Honest in quality. Effective in results.

FAQs

1. Can sesame oil be used daily in winter?
Yes, sesame oil is safe for daily use on the body and for nabhi oiling in winter.

2. Is sesame oil suitable for sensitive skin?
Generally yes, but always do a patch test before first use.

3. Can sesame oil be used on the face?
Yes, especially for very dry skin. Use a small quantity at night.

4. How long does it take to see results from nabhi oiling?
Many people notice reduced dryness and better sleep within 1–2 weeks of regular use.

5. Should sesame oil be warmed before use?
Lightly warming the oil improves absorption and makes it more effective in winter.