Is there a lot of debate these days about new-born massage—to do it or not to do it?
Oil massage has been linked to good health, and oil is rubbed on the skin with the expectation that it will go inside the body and strengthen the bones.
However, oil cannot enter through the skin. If it could, internal fluids would also escape outside. Bones are strengthened by good diet and exercise, not by massage.
The only benefit of massage is this: if the massage is done with a mother’s affection and a light touch, the baby experiences love; this experience certainly provides health benefits; and the oil applied on the skin prevents the evaporation of water from the skin, which keeps the skin from getting cold and helps it remain soft.
Which oil to use? Those made by God – sesame, mustard, coconut, olive oil or homemade Desi Ghee (clarified butter).
Other branded and commercial oils or medicated oils may cause allergies.
Putting oil in the nose and ears is absolutely inappropriate. There is no machine running inside (that needs lubrication).