Fashion designer Masaba Gupta, mother to Matara, opened up about completing 13 months postpartum. “13 months postpartum and the belly does its thing with all the hormones still settling in (my homoeopath tells me 18 months is a good timeline to watch for as hormones still stay erratic),” she noted on Instagram Stories.
According to Gupta, “castor oil tummy patches have been a game changer for my bloating, and I have been waking up with more energy than I did earlier”. “Alternating between castor and cold-pressed almond oil on days I feel my skin needs that extra hydration at a deep level. Want to try ghee next,” she continued.
Taking a cue from her experience, let’s understand if these approaches really work for postpartum women.
Dr Shruti Chandak, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said postpartum journeys are rarely straightforward. “Many new mothers turn to home remedies to feel more at ease in their bodies again. When someone, 13 months after giving birth, considers trying ghee on the navel after testing castor oil or almond oil patches, it shows a common desire for comfort, nourishment, and routine,” said Dr Chandak.
Using oils on the navel is a tradition in many households, said Dr Chandak. “People do this for warmth, relaxation, or to ease dryness in the stomach area. For women in the postpartum phase, this practice also provides a sense of self-care as the body continues to adjust. While the navel itself doesn’t absorb nutrients, massage and warmth can help the abdominal area feel calmer and more supported,” the expert continued.
What should someone keep in mind before trying ghee, castor oil, or almond oil on the navel?
It’s important to see how the skin reacts to any product, cautioned Dr Chandak. “Some people may experience mild irritation, especially with thicker oils like castor. Patch testing on a small area is always useful. Ghee usually suits most skin types because it is soothing, but it can feel greasy. Those with sensitive or acne-prone skin in the area may want to use it carefully. Applying it cleanly and avoiding heavily perfumed oils can decrease the chances of irritation,” said Dr Chandak.
Here’ what you should consider (Photo: Freepik)
Are there any actual benefits to this practice?
Most benefits come from the ritual itself. “Gentle massage, slower breathing, and warmth can help ease abdominal tightness. Many women find that these routines help them reconnect with their bodies after a challenging recovery period. Oils can also moisturise dry skin, which is common postpartum due to hormonal changes,” said Dr Chandak.
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Is it safe to rely on such remedies as part of postpartum care?
These methods can be a safe part of recovery if expectations are realistic. “They don’t ‘heal’ postpartum issues, but they can make the stomach area feel more relaxed. True support for postpartum recovery comes from staying hydrated, gradually building strength, getting good sleep, and paying attention to how the body feels. Home remedies can be included, but they shouldn’t replace essential self-care routines,” said Dr Chandak.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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