The History of Scalp Massage

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Scalp massage is an Indian treatment as old as the hills. So ancient is it and so positive its results, that it’s been exalted to the status of a tradition in most households. Still done on a weekly basis, it is part of many sacred rituals and the way in which a festival day is begun almost in every home across the subcontinent.

This massage is proven for its goodness in improving blood circulation and relieving stress in adults, while enabling concentration and enhancing memory power in school-going children. It is also especially recommended for hair re-growth in the case of cancer patients.

In the first text on Ayurveda written over 2,000 years ago, Ayurvedic physician Charaka wrote, “One who applies oil on his head regularly does not suffer from headaches, baldness, graying of hair, nor does his hair fall. Strength of his head and forehead is especially enhanced; his hair becomes black, long and deep-rooted; his sense organs work properly; the skin of his face becomes brightened; applying oil on the head produces sound sleep and happiness.”

Scalp massage has been a part of Indian culture since ancient times. There has been much research as to the history of this treatment. In addition to being a historical part of Indian culture, it has become a staple around the world as well. Not long ago, it was adopted as part of a luxurious hair treatment in hair salons and spas all over the United States, as well as most other countries.

In ancient days, Indian mothers would engage in weekly scalp massage for their children and other members of the family. The belief was that this practice could help improve memory and concentration, which, in turn, could make a more productive child in school and at home. Indian mothers would often strategically perform this treatment every Sunday, hoping that their children would be able to focus better on their studies during the school week to come. Improvement of memory power was one of the most important and obvious reasons for Indian mothers to engage in this weekly routine.

In more recent times, new advantages of scalp massage have been discovered. In addition to the hopes of improving memory, theories of benefits to general health and wellness have emerged. These medical advantages include reliving migraines, sleeping disorders, stress and stress-related symptoms. While not completely proven to be true for everyone, some cancer patients and medical professional believe that scalp massage helps with hair re-growth after chemotherapy-related hair loss.

Hair stylists, hair care professionals and salons worldwide also believe that scalp massage has its advantages. They believe that by offering theses relaxing and enjoyable massages to clients, their clients’ hair will be more nourished and conditioned. Like some medical professionals, hair care professionals also believe that scalp massages can stimulate hair growth. Most people will admit to a scalp massage being their favorite part of the hair treatment, as they find it to be relaxing, soothing and calming. Regardless of your belief in the ancient theories behind scalp massage, it may still be a good practice to employ, if only to de-stress after a tough day at work!