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Guide

எண்ணெய் குளியல்

Ennai kuliyal: the traditional Tamil oil bath

A step-by-step guide to the weekly sesame oil bath, a Tamil ritual for Saturdays and Deepavali mornings.

3 min read

What you need

Thuli sesame oil, a small vessel to warm it in, and shikakai powder or a mild cleanser. Some families warm the oil with a few peppercorns, a pinch of cumin or a garlic clove.

How to do it

Warm a few spoons of oil until it's just comfortably warm, never hot. Test it on your wrist.

Massage it into the scalp first, then the body. Pay attention to the soles of the feet, the navel and the joints.

Rest for 30–45 minutes, then wash off with shikakai or a mild cleanser and warm water.

Good to know

Traditionally the oil bath is taken in the morning, followed by a light meal and rest. Do a patch test first if you have sensitive skin, and speak to a doctor if you have any medical condition.

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