What My Grandmother Taught Me About Oils—and What the Science Says Now

Every Sunday in my childhood smelled like jasmine flowers, sandalwood soap, and a mysterious blend of oils my grandmother warmed on the stove. I never asked what was in that mix—because I trusted her. And now? Science is finally backing up her wisdom. Let’s get into these generational oil rituals and their modern glow-ups.

Coconut Oil: The South Indian Elixir 🥥

Nani used this for literally everything—scalp massages, underarm de-tanning, dry elbows. Turns out, lauric acid in coconut oil is antimicrobial and helps strengthen hair.

• Trad Uses: Hair growth, frizz control, deep skin hydration
• Modern Science: Reduces protein loss in hair, antimicrobial, prevents TEWL
• How to Use: Pre-shampoo mask, skin balm, oil cleanser
• Fav Brands: Fable & Mane, Kopari, Kiki Naturals

Castor Oil: Brows, Belly Buttons & Beyond 🌿

Castor oil is that one moody cousin—thick, intense, and shockingly effective. My grandmother swore by applying it to the belly button to beat bloating and on lashes for growth.

• Trad Uses: Eyebrow thickening, bloating relief, constipation aid
• Modern Science: Ricinoleic acid boosts circulation and reduces inflammation
• How to Use: Dilute with sesame oil and place on navel overnight with cotton pad
• Fav Brands: The Ordinary, Heritage Store, Earth Rhythm

Oil Pulling: Desi Girl's Detox Routine 🦷

Who needs mouthwash when you have coconut oil? This ancient practice is basically skincare for your mouth.

• Trad Uses: Detox, oral hygiene, energy booster
• Modern Science: Reduces bad bacteria, inflammation, and plaque
• How to Use: Swish 1 tbsp oil for 10–20 mins first thing in the morning. Spit (not in the sink!)

Sesame Oil: Abhyanga's Golden Ingredient ✨

Golden, grounding, and straight from Ayurveda’s VIP list. Sesame oil was her go-to for massages before big occasions—and now it’s my self-care Sunday bestie.

• Trad Uses: Abhyanga (self-massage), skin detox, joint care
• Modern Science: Antioxidants + Vitamin E = barrier boost
• How to Use: Warm and massage before shower, or use on dry heels and knees
• Fav Brands: Forest Essentials, Sova, Banyan Botanicals

Lesser-Known Oils with a Comeback Arc 💅

You might know them from Sephora now—but these oils were starring in our kitchens and bathrooms long before they got rebranded.

• Almond Oil: Used for baby massages, now a fave for under-eye glow
• Rosehip Oil: Ayurvedic answer to retinol (with vitamin A)
• Neem Oil: Grandma’s zit-zapper (very potent—use wisely!)

Other Rituals from Grandma’s Oil Playbook 🧿

• Nabhi Chikitsa (Navel Therapy): Calms gut, helps skin issues
• Karna Puranam: Oil in ears to soothe anxiety (done very carefully)
• Foot Oiling: Helps you sleep like a baby (castor oil is great for this)

How to Choose the Right Oil (Don’t Get Scammed 👀)

• Look for cold-pressed and organic labels
• Use carrier oils (like almond) to dilute essential oils
• Store in amber glass bottles to keep potency
• Watch for “Ayurvedic-inspired” greenwashing

Science Is Catching Up—But Nani Knew First 📚

Turns out, she didn’t need a lab coat—just experience and intuition. Studies are confirming what generations of South Asian women knew: these oils heal, protect, and glow up our skin and bodies.

Final Thoughts: Mixing Ancient with Aesthetic ✨

I still oil my hair on Sundays, but now I might add rosemary or lavender. I still massage my feet before bed—but with Spotify lofi beats in the background. The rituals remain. Only the soundtrack has changed.

💌 With love and oils,
@glow_with_bommai