Natural oils are a huge part of Ayurveda. This includes everything from essential oils to carrier oils. They can affect everything from your health, emotions, and spirituality, so they’re worth learning about.

On the skin, oils can be applied absolutely anywhere. You might be surprised that the belly button is a great place to start! This seemingly normal part of your body is more important than you think. Here are 7 benefits of applying oils to the belly button.

1. Moisturizes Skin

Oils are amazing for naturally moisturizing the skin. They work well on areas that are usually forgotten, like the belly button and stomach. It’s especially useful in the winter when the air is super dry.

Some good options include coconut and olive oils. They have emollient effects, thanks to their fatty acid content.1 Just add a few drops and rub it on your stomach. Your skin will feel silky smooth, especially after a shower or bath.

2. Removes Dirt

The belly button doesn’t get cleaned very often. It can be easy to forget about it! But it’s really embarrassing, so you should clean it regularly. Use a cotton swab and light oils like jojoba, safflower, and grape seed. These oils will loosen up dead skin and dirt, making it easier to remove.

Don’t be aggressive with the cotton swab. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of pain or injury. Instead, be gentle when cleaning your belly button.

3. Cures Infection

Because the belly button can get dirty, it’s the perfect home for bacteria and fungi. An infection can easily develop if you keep it moist for a long time. This may also happen if you have a cut or injury that doesn’t heal right, emphasizing the need for gentle cleaning.

With the right oils, you can kill an infection. Tea tree oil is the best choice because it has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties.2 Another option is mustard oil which also boasts bacteria-fighting abilities.3

To use, add 3 drops to 1 teaspoon coconut oil, another anti-bacterial oil.4 Apply it to your belly button once or twice a day until the infection heals.

4. Treats Stomach Ache

Using oils in the belly button can alleviate tummy pain. This will help symptoms from conditions like indigestion, diarrhea, and food poisoning. It also doubles as a natural remedy for nausea and bloating.

The best choices include essential oils like peppermint5 or ginger.6 As always, don’t forget to dilute them in a carrier oil. These options will provide extra relief for your stomach woes.

5. Decreases Menstrual Pain

Ladies, are you sick of dealing with painful periods? Apply diluted essential oils to your belly button for natural relief. The best choices are rejuvenating essential oils like peppermint,7 cypress,8 clary sage, and ginger.9 Massage the blend onto your tummy to kick those cramps to the curb.

6. Improves Fertility

It’s no surprise that the belly button is connected to fertility. After all, your belly button once connected you to your mother! Adding oils to this spot can influence your fertility, whether you’re a man or woman.

A carrier oil with damiana,10 guava leaf,11 juniper,12 or clary sage essential oils will help.13 They work by promoting relaxation, protecting sperm, and treating menstrual problems. Your hormones will also stay regulated, and therefore, increase your chances of conceiving.

7. Balances The Navel Chakra

In Ayurveda, the Navel Chakra or swadhisthana is a major source of energy and imagination. It is home to your biggest dreams, fantasies, and goals. You also need to keep your navel balanced if you want to connect with your creativity.

According to Ayurveda, you can ease rapeseed oil to balance the navel. Place a few drops in your belly button and massage. Sandalwood, rosewood, and ylang-ylang essential oils can be added for even more benefits. Do this once a week to help your creative energy shine.

Remember, diluting essential oils is a must. They are highly concentrated and might irritate your skin. Before using a new oil, test it on a patch of skin to make sure you’re not allergic.