Sesame (Til) Oil in Ayurveda: Hair, Skin and Body Massage Benefits
Sesame (Til) Oil in Ayurveda: Hair, Skin and Body Massage Benefits

Sesame (Til) Oil in Ayurveda: Hair, Skin and Body Massage Benefits

Posted By Vriksha Veda on July 2026

When it comes to the range of ayurvedic oils, there are huge ones like bhringraj, amla, neem, and the list ones on! One of the most classical ayurvedic formulations include Sesame Oil, which is also called “Til Ka Tel”. Rather than using them in haircare alone, sesame oil has been traditionally used as base oil for herbal preparations because of their nourishing nature and ability to carry herbal components deep into the skin.

In most of the ayurvedic practices, the sesame oil works wonders for your overall skin and hair. And even the research claims that this oil is rich in fatty acids, vitamins, aanti-oxidants, and more which helps in enhancing your skin cum hair at the same time. Get to know about the benefits in detail from ayurvedic point of view in terms of skin (face and body) and hair.

Why Is This Oil Called King of Herbs?

Rather than going with just the benefits, it is vital to know why sesame oil is referred to in ayurveda. Sesame oil is valued in ayurveda because:

  • They are deeply nourishing.

  • Works best on Vata Dosha, which has been linked with dryness and stiffness.

  • Works as an excellent option for herbal extracts.

  • Suitable for whole body massage.

  • Can be used all over the scalp, skin, and joints.

Why is Sesame Oil Unique - Traditional Aspect

Natural Compound

Role in Hair & Skin Care

Linoleic Acid

Supports natural skin barrier while reducing moisture loss.

Oleic Acid

Works on softening skin and helps in managing hair better.

Sesamol, Vitamin E

Works against environmental factors and supports skin health because of their rich-antioxidant level.

Sesamin

Rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Phytosterols

Help maintain skin hydration and comfort.

What Does Modern Research Say About Sesame Oil?

1. Supports Skin Barrier - The presence of fatty acids in the oil helps in strengthening the skin barrier while reducing water loss from the skin.

2. Rich in Natural Antioxidants - The presence of sesamin and sesamol helps in protecting skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and pollution.

3. Maintain Healthy Hair - Fatty acids in sesame oil works as a lubricated shaft, reducing the roughness in hair while improving softness.

4. Traditionally Used in Massage Therapy - Studies also say Sesame Oil Massage in Skin helps in improving skin hydration and contributes to relaxation.

How Sesame Oil Benefits Skin & Hair?

How Sesame Oil Helps the Skin

How Sesame Oil Helps the Hair

Works on strengthening moisture barrier support.

Treats, moisturizes, and nourishes scalp.

Helps in healing roughness and dryness.

Softens dryness and manages frizziness.

Reduces the water loss in the skin.

Helps in reducing moisture loss from the hair shaft.

Helps in softening skin and smoothens them.

Improves frizziness and dryness on hair while managing them better.

Helps in skin elasticity and healthy complexion look.

Enhances shine and reduces dullness.

Perfect for body massage - Especially Abhyanga.

Perfect to use before hair wash days, focusing on scalp and hair.

Why Is Sesame Oil Commonly Used in Ayurveda?

  • Nourishes skin.

  • Improve blood circulation.

  • Relax muscles.

  • Support joint comfort.

  • Gives calmness in the skin

As they are warm and nourishing in nature, they are majorly preferred for enhancing the dryness and flakiness in skin and scalp. If dryness is a recurring concern for you, browse our dry & dehydrated skin collection for more targeted picks.

Hair, Skin, or Body? Here's How to Use Sesame Oil

Purpose

How to Use

Frequency

Hair Oiling

Massage into the scalp and lengths, leave for a couple of hours before washing.

1 to 2 times/week

Facial Massage

Use just a few drops along with a gentle massage.

3 times/week

Abhyanga

Warm the oil slightly and massage from head to toe before bathing.

Everyday

Dry Elbows & Heels

Massage directly onto rough areas before bedtime.

Daily

Sesame Oil Works Well With?

Here are some of the best combination that you can try with for enhancing their benefits:

Ingredient

Why Pair with Sesame Oil?

With Bhringraj

Works on nourishing the scalp better through proper massage.

Sesame + Amla

Complements hair care by working on dullness and dryness.

Hibiscus & Sesame

Improves hair softness and manageability.

Sesame + Neem

Suitable for oily scalp care routines.

Licorice - Neem Combo

Works well in body massage oils for dry skin.

Why Choose Good and High-Quality Sesame Oil?

Every oil is not the same and they do not give the same benefits for skin and hair. Here is a small checklist for picking the right one:

  • Go with ones which are completely pure and 100% cold-pressed.

  • No mix of oil, fragrance, artificial colours or preservatives

  • Trusted sourcing and quality testing

The ones which satisfy all the above will be Vriksha Veda’s Cold-Pressed Sesame Oil; The til is sourced from Self help group of ladies” based in Tamil Nadu.

Conclusion

The Sesame oil, which is also called “Til Oil” is majorly preferred in various ayurvedic routines because of their versatile nature. From body massage to scalp oiling, you can use this one as they are a blend of fatty acids, vitamins, and also anti-oxidants.

FAQ’s

What Are the Benefits of Sesame (Til) Oil in Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda, sesame (til) oil is considered a nourishing oil that is traditionally used for hair care, skin care, and Abhyanga (body massage). It is valued for its moisturizing properties and is commonly used to support healthy-looking skin, scalp, and overall well-being.

Is Sesame Oil Good for Hair Growth?

Sesame oil contains naturally occurring fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants that help nourish the scalp and condition the hair. While it is not a clinically proven hair growth treatment, a healthy scalp may support normal hair growth.

Can Sesame Oil Be Used for Daily Body Massage?

Yes, sesame oil is one of the most commonly used massage oils in Ayurveda and is traditionally used for daily or regular Abhyanga (self-massage). It helps moisturize the skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple after massage.

Is Sesame Oil Good for Dry Skin?

Yes, sesame oil is rich in essential fatty acids that help lock in moisture and soften dry skin. It is commonly used as a natural body oil, especially during colder months or for people with dry skin.

How Do You Use Sesame Oil for Hair and Skin?

For hair, gently massage sesame oil into the scalp and hair lengths, leave it on for 30–60 minutes or overnight, then wash with a mild shampoo. For skin, apply a small amount to slightly damp skin or use it as part of an Ayurvedic body massage before bathing.

Who Should Use Sesame Oil According to Ayurveda?

According to Ayurvedic practices, sesame oil is traditionally recommended for people with dry skin, dry scalp, and those seeking nourishing body massage. Individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter oils depending on their skin type and personal needs.