aṅgānulepana

 The Sanskrit term "aṅgānulepana" means “anointing the body” 

and refers to the practice of applying oils, pastes, or ointments 

to one's body, usually for ritual, therapeutic, or hygienic 

purposes.

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Etymology and Composition

The term aṅgānulepana is a compound of two Sanskrit words:

• aṅga (अङ्ग) – meaning "limb" or "body part"
• anulepana (अनुलेपन) – meaning "anointing" or "smearing over"

Together, aṅgānulepana literally translates to “application upon the limbs” 

or more broadly “anointing the body.” This can involve the rubbing 

or spreading of oils, medicinal pastes, or other substances across 

the body, which may be part of daily routines, Ayurvedic therapies, 

or religious and ceremonial observances 

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Usage in Literature and Tradition

In classical Sanskrit texts and Hindu rituals, aṅgānulepana is often 

mentioned in contexts where purification, massage, or preparation 

for ceremonies is involved. It signifies the act of covering the body

with beneficial substances, which is believed to enhance health,

provide protection, or prepare the body for religious practices 

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It may also appear in Ayurvedic traditions for therapeutic massage

and healing treatments.

Summary

• Meaning: Anointing the body; applying oils, pastes, or ointments.
• Components: aṅga (body/limb) + anulepana (application/anointing).
• Context: Therapeutic, hygienic, or ritualistic practices in Sanskrit 
• and Hindu traditions.

Thus, aṅgānulepana encompasses both literal and traditional practice, 

emphasizing the application of substances to the body for health, 

ritual sanctity, or ceremonial purposes 

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