Last Updated on March 6, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick take
After fact-checking, we found the claim made in a Facebook video that applying oil on the navel can cure blood pressure, liver, and diabetes issues to be False.
The Claim
An advertisement circulating on Facebook is promoting a product named ‘Nabhi Tailam’, which claims to offer quick solutions for various health issues including blood pressure, diabetes, nerve disorders, heart problems, and skin conditions through topical application around the naval area. The advertisement says that simply applying this product can resolve the mentioned health concerns.
Fact Check
What one should know about the video and the website?
After watching the video, we clicked on the link provided, which led us to the website. Upon examining the authenticity of the website, we found it to be irrelevant. The product, referred to as ‘Nabhi Tel’, was also labelled as India’s number one hair oil. In addition to claiming to prevent heart, sugar, liver, and kidney diseases, the website also mentioned additional benefits such as boosting immunity, improving vision, relieving menstrual pain, calming the mind, alleviating joint pain, and enhancing skin and facial health.
The product’s ingredients are not clearly written on the website. Some pictures show honey, while others display various types of hair oils such as castor oil, jujube oil, almond oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and grape seed oil. This inconsistency creates confusion and raises doubts about the credibility of the product. It’s essential to be cautious when considering such products due to the lack of transparency regarding ingredients and the misleading presentation on the website.
What is oiling the navel method means?
According to people who believes in this practise, the Pechoti method, it is a concept in Ayurveda that suggests substances, such as oils or herbal extracts, can be absorbed through the navel to provide therapeutic benefits. This method involves applying oils or other substances to the navel, believed to allow absorption into the bloodstream, potentially offering health benefits such as pain relief, relaxation, or improved well-being. However, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of the Pechoti method is limited in conventional medicine.
Dr. P. Ram Manohar from Amrita School of Ayurveda says, “There is no scientific evidence to support this. It’s not an official practice in the ayurveda. In fact, this has not been documented in classic ayurveda texts.”
Is there scientific proof that oiling the navel prevents heart, diabetes, or liver disease?
No In 2014, a review of ancient literature explored the clinical effects of navel massage therapy, examining methods like stroking, rubbing, pushing, tapping, and puffing. The study found evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating gastrointestinal and gynaecological conditions. However, there’s no scientific proof backing the belief that oiling the navel prevents heart disease, diabetes, or liver disease.
But when we researched about massaging we found out that Massage therapy has been shown to benefit hypertensive patients by reducing symptoms like anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. Studies indicate decreases in blood pressure and cortisol levels. However, research quality varies, and comparisons between different massage techniques yield mixed results. Adding therapies like aroma to massage oils may enhance effectiveness, but others like exercise may not. Additionally, there’s a reliance on self-report measures in research, highlighting a need for more comprehensive measurement methods.
In a 2001 study parents giving full-body massages to children with diabetes saw a decrease in glucose levels and anxiety and depression in both parents and children. However, the methods for measuring outcomes were not mentioned. Another study had clinical staff provide breathing instruction and light touch to diabetic patients, resulting in reduced blood glucose, anxiety, headaches, depression, work stress, and anger, as well as better sleep and improved family relationships. No statistical significance was evaluated, and outcome measurement methods were not specified.
In an unpublished trial, patients with type 2 diabetes who received full-body massages three times a week for 12 weeks experienced varied changes in HbA1c levels. Some patients saw decreases, while others saw increases, with differences in patient characteristics. Patients on the waiting list also showed a decline in HbA1c levels.
In both studies, the results were not robust due to various physical errors noted, and outcomes varied among participants. The effectiveness also appeared to depend on the type of massage received and the type of oil used. Both the studies did not mentioned navel massage in their research.
Does oiling the navel method work?
The Pechoti method, which involves putting oils or substances on the navel for health reasons, doesn’t have strong scientific proof. Some people might find it helpful based on their beliefs and experiences, but it’s not widely accepted in scientific circles. More research is needed to know if it’s truly effective.
During our research, we did not come across any research papers that specifically mentioned the term ‘Pechoti method’. While some people who practice suggest benefits, they lack scientific validation when searched. It’s crucial to rely on evidence-based approaches recommended by healthcare professionals for managing these health conditions. We have previously fact checked claims suggesting that massaging almond oil around the navel improves vision and complexion, and applying ginger oil aids in weight loss and both the claims had bare minimum scientific relation.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
