Is Navel Oiling Actually Beneficial? Expert Decodes

You must have heard about the practice of navel oiling from your grandparents. For many of us, the elderly advised us about this practice of oiling your navel. We were told it improves our overall health. Even today, navel oiling is a popular practice. Have you ever wondered about its efficacy? If yes, then this article is for you.

To get an expert view on this topic, the editorial team of OnlyMyHealth reached out to Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.

What is Navel Oiling?

As per Ayurveda, the navel is where life begins. It is said to be a bridge that connects a mother with their child inside the womb. Navel is also a connecting chamber for several veins reaching out to multiple organs in the body. Thus, it is believed in Ayurveda that taking care of the navel may help in curing several health issues.

Navel oiling is an age-old practice of detoxifying. It is the practice which allows the navel to absorb substances such as essential oils via the Pechoti gland, which is located inside the navel. People said to have received positive results with this practice, but there is no scientific evidence to back this.

Does Navel Oiling Really Work?

Let us get to the point straight. Is navel oiling actually beneficial? Our expert answers this for you.

“From a medical perspective, there is scant scientific evidence to prove that applying oil in the umbilicus has any systemic health benefits. While this may indeed provide moisturization and relaxation to that area, claims of improved digestion, fertility, or detoxification are usually anecdotal,” explains Dr Chatterjee.

Benefits of Navel Oiling

“It reportedly leads to a reduction of dryness in the skin of the abdomen, relaxation, and better skin texture. These effects are topical, and not evidenced to extend to internal organs. Any perceived benefits are likely due to improved skin hydration and gentle massage rather than physiological changes,” shares Dr Chatterjee.

On this note, let us take a look at the probable benefits of navel oiling as per common beliefs:

• Keeping the navel aka belly button clean.
• Reducing chances of daily infection.
• Treating an upset stomach.
• Reducing menstrual pain.
• Boosts fertility in women.
• Aligning chakras inside the body.
• Relieving joint pains and aches.
• Makes the face more glowing and radiant.
• Reduces pimples, blemishes and acne.
• Cures face pigmentation.

Also Read: Can Applying Oil On Belly Button Really Give Glowing Skin? Expert Tells

Side Effects of Navel Oiling

Does navel oiling come with its cons? “Most people tolerate it well, although there may be side effects if it causes skin irritation or an allergic reaction. If the oil used is not clean or if the application is done with unwashed hands, minor skin infections or rashes may also occur around the navel,” says Dr Chatterjee.

He adds that people with skin allergies, eczema, infections near the navel, or recent abdominal surgery should avoid this practice. “It’s also best avoided in infants or individuals with an umbilical hernia unless advised by a healthcare professional,” shares the expert.

Is Navel Oiling Safe? 

“Generally speaking, applying a small amount of clean, skin-safe oil is considered low-risk for most people. Those with any skin conditions, infections, or even recent surgeries around the navel, however, should avoid doing so to prevent irritation or possible contamination,” warns Dr Chatterjee.

Correct Oil and Timing For Navel Oiling

Is there a right time to oil your belly button? “There is no medical guideline on timing. People traditionally prefer to take it before bedtime and after a shower, when the skin is clean, as this may enhance absorption and relaxation. Timing is more about comfort than medical necessity,” answers Dr Chatterjee.

Speaking about which oil one should use, the expert adds that there is no evidence-based recommendation for any specific oil. “Natural oils like coconut, mustard, or almond oil are commonly used because they are gentle on the skin. The key is to use pure, clean oil suitable for external use to avoid irritation,” concludes Dr Chatterjee.

Also Read: What Are The Benefits of Navel Oiling? Ayurveda Expert Shares How Often Should You Oil Your Belly Button

The Final Word

Navel oiling provides moisturization and relaxation to the belly button, and claims to improve digestion and fertility, among other probable benefits. But from a medical perspective, there is no solid scientific evidence to prove that applying oil in the umbilicus has any systemic health benefits.