Anointing Oil for Feet

Anointing the feet with healing oils is part of a religious foot washing ritual or ceremony. The oil used is perfumed, although other substances like milk or melted butter may be used in place of olive oil. The anointing ceremony is considered a way of removing dangerous influences.

What is Anointing?

Anointing is the ritual of blessing and protecting using perfumed oil. This scented oil or ointment is generally used to heal and protect a specific area of the body, like the feet, or as part of a consecration blessing for a new home, building or religious service. Anointing is an ancient practice performed by many cultures worldwide.

Modern Day Anointing

Many eastern cultures continue the tradition of ritualistic anointing. Within Hindu belief anointment is freely practiced. This ceremony is performed as a blessing to new beginnings like birthing, educational initiations and/or final rites. Even buildings and new homes benefit from anointment. During special religious ceremonies statues may also be anointed.

In the Christian tradition the anointing practice is known as unction. Besides the feet and hands the forehead is also a popular part of the body to anoint. Although anointing is mostly performed by priests and holy men self anointing is also common.

Alternative Anointing Base

Besides the traditional oil other food related items are acceptably used in anointing rituals. Yogurt, butter or milk provides a good base whilst herbal pastes, ashes, clay and wood powders like sandalwood add aromatic substance. For perfume jasmine flowers, gardenia, tumeric and other infusions may be added.

Ready-Made Anointing Oils

Pure, natural anointing oils that are blended in an olive oil carrier base are available to purchase online and at natural herbal retail outlets. Jasmine, Lily Of The Valley, Cedarwood and Myrrh are all popular blended essential oils. When selecting oils for use in anointing practice it is worth choosing oils that work to improve specific conditions like stress, clarity of mind or strengthening of emotions.

Healing balms that help to reduce swelling and inflammation, and improve conditions like psoriasis and very dry eczema, can also be used as an anointing oil.

How to Anoint the Feet

Bathe the feet in a bowl of warm water. Dry thoroughly with a clean, fluffy towel ensuring you dry between the toes. You are now ready to anoint the feet with anointing oil.

It is important to use high quality blended essential oils with a perfume that you like. A combination of essential oils like Myrrh, Cassia and Jasmine create a heady aroma that detoxifies the liver and brain and provides stimulation to the immune system. It is also very pleasant to smell.

Place a few drops of the perfumed oil in the palm of one hand. Rub the oil between the palms in a clockwise direction. Now gently massage the anointing oil into both feet – along the sole, between the toes and over the top of the foot. Allow the skin to absorb the oil. You may wish to put on socks to protect flooring or footwear.