Traditional practice of oil massage of neonates in Bangladesh
Darmstadt, G.L.; Saha, S.K.
Journal of Health Population and Nutrition 20(2): 184-188
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 1606-0997 PMID: 12186200 DOI: 10.2307/23498941Document Number: 243682
Topical application of natural oils is practised routinely in many countries and may either improve skin barrier function and health or have detrimental cutaneous and systemic effects, depending on the composition of the oil. This study was undertaken to gain insights into the epidemiology, practice and perceptions regarding traditional oil massage of neonates in Bangladesh. A questionnaire was administered verbally to the primary caretaker of 332 outpatients at the Dhaka Shishu Hospital, and to 20 women with children encountered at the Matlab Health Complex in Bangladesh. More than 96% (340/352) of the caregivers practised oil massage, irrespective of socioeconomic status and place of residence. Among those at the Dhaka Shishu Hospital who practised oil massage, mustard oil was used alone or in combination by 95% (303/320) over the entire body, 1-3 time(s) daily (96%), starting in the first 3 days of life (72%) in both term and preterm neonates. Perceived benefits included prevention of infections (69%) and hypothermia (2%). Oil massage is an important traditional domiciliary practice used annually on more than 3 million newborns in Bangladesh. Given its potential for beneficial and harmful effects, further research is needed on the value of this practice, and ways to optimize its beneficial effects.