• Indian head massage provides healing touchArtists Hands setting the world on fire image by Peter Baxter from Fotolia.com
  
  The Indian head massage is part of the Ayurvedic medicinal system practiced on the Indian subcontinent. Ayurveda, "the science of life," is a holistic system that strives for internal balance. The Indian head massage focuses on the upper body, chiefly the head, neck, shoulders, arms, upper back, face and ears. The technique is done fully clothed in an upright position using a variety of virgin vegetable and essential oils.
  
  

Sesame Oil

• Sesame oil is mentioned in the Vedas.sesame seeds image by Steve Lovegrove from Fotolia.com
  
  Sesame oil is one of the most common oils used in Indian head massage because of its mild odor. Mustard oil can be substituted, but is very pungent and sometimes offensive, potentially distracting the recipient from the benefits of massage. Sesame oil has been used since ancient times, proven by the mention of this oil in the Vedas, ancient Indian texts. Sesame oil is quick to absorb into the skin and hair and is currently being researched by various institutions, including the Maharishi International College in Iowa, for health benefits.
  
  

Coconut Oil

• Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer.Coconut image by Mario Ragsac Jr. from Fotolia.com
  
  Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer, giving hair luster and moisturizing the scalp. Virgin coconut oil provides moisture for a longer period of time then other oils, providing benefits to those with exceptionally dry skin. Coconut oil is high in antioxidants, which are absorbed into the skin, fighting cancer-causing free radicals within the body. Additional benefits may include slowing the aging process, improving skin elasticity and combating skin conditions like liver spots or eczema.
  
  

Olive Oil

• Olive oil can be purchased at any supermarket.olive oil image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
  
  Olive oil is easily obtained, inexpensive and virtually odorless. Olive oil is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and ease the itching and pain associated with eczema or psoriasis.
  
  

Rosemary Oil

• rosemary has culinary and medicinal usesrosemary image by Denis Plaster from Fotolia.com
  
  Rosemary oil soothes the scalp while stimulating the hair follicles promoting hair growth. Rosemary is a natural anti-inflammatory and has a high content of vitamin E.
  
  

Lavender Oil

• Lavender increases mental claritylavender image by Alistair Dick from Fotolia.com
  
  Lavender oil is used to relax and reduce stress. This calming essential oil promotes internal balance and stimulates the hair follicles. Lavender is a natural antibacterial, assisting in the treatment of wounds and acne and is valued for its pleasant odor.