Ayurveda Herbal Oil Decoctions and Infusions

Decoction:  Ratio of herbs to water is one to sixteen, heated on low flame, till water reduces to one quarter of its original amount. Herbs are strained and liquid is the decoction.

To make an oil of the decoction, add Sesame, equal amount, to the decoction and heat on low flame till all the water evaporates.  The oil is then ready to use.

Infusion: is cooking below boiling point and steeping the herbs. Ratio of herbs to water is one to eight. Add to boiling water for twelve hours or thirty minutes steeping. Cold infusion is steeping herbs and oils in cold water overnight.

For infused oils, the herb is added to a base vegetable oil like Sesame and is heated or left in the sun for a few days, till the plant material turns brown and has no freshness left.  Then fresh plant material is again introduced till the essential constituents are absorbed by the vegetable oil and the smell is strong enough.

Narayan oil
This warm herbal decoction is excellent for Vata and Kapha disorders and should be massaged half an hour before a warm shower. Narayan has many herbs infused in it including Ashwagandha and Shatavri.

Chandanbala lakshadi oil
This is an ideal oil for Pitta disorders as it has a lot of cooling herbs and flowers in it.  It is used in muscular weakness and for massaging children to tone up their muscles.

The Anu Taila
Is a  nasal oil used for centuries in Ayurveda with the Nasya technique. Nasya is application of oils and Ghee (clarified butter) in the nasal passage.  Is excellent for sinus relief.

Madhavi Taila
Madhavi oil is very beneficial for hair growth and to prevent hair loss