By Amber Magnolia Hill, herbal medicine maker and founder of Mythic Medicine
Herbal body oiling is exactly what it sounds like: massaging an herb-infused oil into your skin. It might be the thing I talk about most, because it has truly changed my relationship with my body.
Body oiling is an ancient practice, but it’s simple in execution. There's no special equipment or long period of time required. Oiling can be done by nearly anyone, anywhere, in just a short window of time.
Why Use Herbal Body Oil?
When most of us think "herbal medicine," we picture things you swallow, such as teas, tinctures, and capsules. But your skin is your largest organ and is remarkably absorbent, with direct access to your nervous, lymphatic, and immune systems.
Body oiling gives your nervous system a profound reset. The herbs go to work the moment they touch your skin, soothing aches, calming nerves, and grounding your body. No waiting around for it to "kick in."
If you've never tried it, the word "oil" might bring to mind something heavy or unpleasant. In practice, it feels silky, nourishing, and genuinely lovely.
Where To Use Herbal Body Oil
You can use these oils anywhere on your body. A few of my favorite spots:
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Neck and shoulders. This is where the whole day tends to land. Oiling your neck and shoulders can bring an almost immediate sense of relief and warmth.
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Ears. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, every point on the ear corresponds to a point on the body. An ear oiling session can be shockingly good for how little time it takes.
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Feet. Grounding for grown-ups, and so helpful for when a kid is mid-meltdown.
- Hands, cracked heels, anywhere that needs softening. Castor Oil is especially good for softening tough spots.
How To Use Herbal Body Oil
There's no single right way to do body oiling. Here are some ways that work for me and what I’ve heard from customers:
The full reset. On a big day- travel, public speaking, anything that's going to ask a lot of your nervous system- oiling your whole body in the morning works wonders. It wraps you in an envelope of warmth and protection that you carry with you out the door. Some people love a full naked hour at home: oil at the start, then just let it absorb while you go about your morning and prepare for the day.
The targeted moment. If you don't need the full experience, a small amount on your neck, shoulders, ears, or feet- wherever you're holding tension- is plenty. This is great for the end of a long day, or during a transition moment between activities.
The in-shower shortcut. If you’re truly pressed for time, oil yourself in the shower and then rinse it off. Enough absorbs in those few minutes that you'll still feel it, and there’s zero worry about oil on your clothes or sheets.
Before bed. If you're oiling at night and going straight to sleep, an "oil robe" or set of dedicated sheets lets you fully oil and crawl right into bed. Or just give it a few minutes to soak in before you get into bed.
If you're wondering how much to use, a little goes a long way. Start small, massage it in, give it a minute. You'll be surprised how much a tiny amount can do.
Who Is Herbal Body Oiling For?
Herbal body oiling can be for everybody. Genuinely- babies, toddlers, grown adults, pregnant women, the elderly and ailing- everyone. There's no "right" age to start. Kids especially love it for how it feels, plus the touch and attention that comes with it. I've heard from so many parents that once they bring oiling into the house, their kids start asking for it.
Touch Also Matters
Herbal body oiling isn't just about the oil. It’s also about the touch. Whether you're oiling yourself or someone you love, that physical contact brings you back into your body in a way that's hard to describe. When you do it regularly, your relationship with your own body starts to shift. You'll notice tension before it becomes a real problem, and you start to know- almost instinctively- what you need.
If you're brand new to this, there's really only one way to start: pick a spot, put a little oil on it, and notice how it feels. No complicated routines, no extra mental load. Just simple, effective plant medicine that meets you exactly where you are.
Herbal Body Oiling FAQ
Is herbal body oiling messy or greasy?
No, people find that body oiling doesn’t feel greasy or unpleasant. In fact, oils make your skin feel silky and nourished. A little goes a long way, and it absorbs into your skin quickly.
How do I keep oil off my clothes and sheets?
Wait a few minutes for it to absorb before getting dressed, or keep an "oil robe" or set of sheets you don't mind getting a little oily. You can also oil in the shower and rinse right away. You'll still feel the benefits, and there’s no risk of getting oil on your clothing.
Do I need a special technique?
Not at all. A quick swipe on your neck or feet takes under a minute, or you can turn it into a full body oiling. Whatever approach feels right for you.
Is there a best time of day?
The best time for body oiling really depends on what you need. Morning oiling sets a calm, grounded tone for a demanding day, while evening oiling helps you wind down.
Is it safe during pregnancy and for babies?
Herbal body oils are widely used throughout pregnancy, birth, and for babies and young children. St. John's Wort oil in particular is my go-to across the whole childbearing continuum.
