Batana Oil For Hair Growth Benefits

Batana Oil For Hair Growth Benefits

Published: May 25, 2025

1. Benefits of Batana Oil for Hair Growth

Batana oil, also known as Ojon oil, is a remarkable natural remedy derived from the nuts of the American Oil Palm (Elaeis oleifera). This red-colored oil, traditionally harvested by the Tawira indigenous people ("the people of beautiful hair") in Honduras, offers a wealth of benefits specifically for hair growthfor hair growthon.

What makes batana oil particularly effective for hair growth are its unique properties:

• Rich nutrient profile: Batana oil contains an impressive array of nutrients essential for hair growth, including vitamins E and A, along with essential fatty acids such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid. These nutrients provide the building blocks needed for strong, healthy hair growth.
• Deep moisturization: Unlike many commercial products that only coat the hair surface, batana oil penetrates deeply into the hair shaft, providing hydration from within. This internal moisturizing action strengthens the hair structure, preventing the breakage that often impedes length retention.
• Scalp health optimization: A healthy scalp is the foundation for hair growth. Batana oil helps balance sebum production and reduces inflammation, creating an optimal environment for active hair follicles. Research published in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual suggests that plant oils with similar compositions improve the scalp's barrier function and inflammatory status.
• Follicle strengthening: The nutrients in batana oil directly nourish hair follicles, potentially extending the active growth phase (anagen) of the hair cycle. This results in stronger, thicker hair strands emerging from the scalp.
• Protection against damage: By forming a protective barrier around the hair shaft, batana oil shields hair from environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution that can damage follicles and impede growth.
• Revitalization potential: Some evidence suggests batana oil may help "wake up" dormant hair follicles, particularly when combined with regular scalp massage that stimulates blood circulation to the follicles.
• Cellular regeneration support: The high concentration of tocotrienols and tocopherols (forms of vitamin E) identified in compositional analyses published in the Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine supports cellular regeneration, which is vital for healthy follicle function.

These multi-faceted benefits make batana oil particularly valuable for those experiencing thinning hair, breakage, or seeking to maximize their hair's growth potential naturally.

2. How to Apply Batana Oil for Hair Growth

The method of application significantly impacts batana oil's effectiveness for stimulating hair growth. Here are the most effective techniques specifically designed to maximize growth benefits:

Basic Application Methods

Pre-Shampoo Growth Treatment

1. Warm 1-2 tablespoons of batana oil between your palms (slightly warming enhances absorption without damaging the beneficial compounds)
2. Apply to dry hair, focusing primarily on the scalp and areas of thinning
3. Using fingertips (not nails), massage in circular motions for 5-10 minutes, concentrating on areas where growth is desired
4. Cover with a shower cap to trap heat and enhance penetration
5. Leave for 1-4 hours (overnight for maximum benefits)
6. Wash thoroughly with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo

Direct Scalp Treatment for Targeted Growth

1. Part clean hair into sections using a rat-tail comb
2. Using a dropper, apply a few drops of batana oil directly to exposed scalp areas, especially in thinning regions
3. Gently massage each section for 30-60 seconds to stimulate circulation
4. Continue until the entire scalp is treated
5. Leave in without rinsing for maximum absorption

Growth-Enhancing Hair Mask

1. In a small bowl, combine:
   • 2 tablespoons batana oil (base growth stimulant)
   • 1 tablespoon raw honey (humectant that helps retain moisture)
   • 5 drops rosemary essential oil (scientifically proven to promote hair growth)
   • Optional: half an avocado, mashed (adds proteins and additional nutrients)
2. Apply to damp hair from roots to ends, focusing on the scalp
3. Cover with a shower cap and apply gentle heat with a blow dryer for 5 minutes to enhance penetration
4. Leave for 30-60 minutes
5. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a gentle cleansing

Application Frequency for Optimal Growth

For maximum hair growth benefits, follow these frequency guidelines based on your hair type:

Hair Type	Application Frequency	Special Considerations
Normal Hair	1-2 times weekly	Focus on scalp massage to stimulate blood flow
Dry/Damaged Hair	2-3 times weekly	Include one overnight treatment weekly
Oily Hair	Once weekly	Focus application on mid-lengths to ends, lighter application on scalp
Significant Thinning/Growth Focus	3 times weekly	Combine with daily 5-minute scalp massage, even on non-oil days

Consistency is crucial for hair growth results. Most users begin seeing noticeable improvements after 8-12 weeks of regular application.

3. Scientific Evidence Supporting Batana Oil for Hair Growth

While batana oil has centuries of traditional use supporting its effectiveness for hair growth, scientific research provides additional validation for its growth-promoting properties:

Research-Backed Growth Benefits

Compositional analysis published in the Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine identified high concentrations of tocotrienols and tocopherols (forms of vitamin E) in batana oil. These compounds are known to improve microcirculation to the scalp—a critical factor in follicle health and hair growth. Improved blood flow delivers more nutrients and oxygen to follicles, potentially extending their active growth phase.

Research in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science demonstrates that oils with fatty acid profiles similar to batana oil penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss. This structural reinforcement allows hair to grow longer without breaking, enabling the achievement of greater length over time.

A 2015 study in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual found that plant oils with compositions similar to batana oil improve the barrier function of the skin, which applies to the scalp as well. This creates an optimal environment for follicle function by regulating inflammation—a known inhibitor of hair growth.

Laboratory testing by cosmetic companies has shown that batana oil reduces hair cuticle damage by up to 52% compared to untreated hair. This protective effect preserves hair integrity, allowing strands to retain length rather than breaking prematurely.

The Growth Mechanism

Scientifically, batana oil appears to promote hair growth through several mechanisms:

1. Extended anagen phase: The nutrients in batana oil may help keep hair follicles in the active growth phase longer
2. Reduced DHT impact: Some plant-based oils have shown potential to mitigate the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is implicated in pattern hair thinning
3. Cellular energy production: The oil's compounds support mitochondrial function in follicle cells, potentially increasing their productive capacity
4. Protective antioxidant effects: By neutralizing free radicals that can damage follicles, batana oil's antioxidants help maintain healthy growth cycles

It's worth noting that while research specifically on batana oil continues to develop, its compositional similarity to better-studied oils provides strong scientific support for its hair growth benefits. The traditional use by the Tawira people, known for their exceptionally long, healthy hair, provides compelling ethnobotanical evidence as well.

4. Traditional Use of Batana Oil for Hair Growth

The strongest testament to batana oil's effectiveness for hair growth may be its centuries-old use by the Tawira indigenous people of Honduras. The name "Tawira" literally translates to "the people of beautiful hair"—a direct reflection of the remarkable results they've achieved using this oil throughout generations.

Ancient Growth Wisdom

The Tawira's traditional hair growth practices include:

• Lifecycle application: Batana oil treatments begin in childhood and continue throughout life, with specific application methods varying by age and hair needs
• Specialized extraction: The traditional preparation involves roasting the nuts of the American Oil Palm, grinding them into a paste, and extracting the oil through a water separation process that preserves its bioactive compounds
• Community application rituals: Monthly ceremonies where community members gather to apply the oil to each other's hair using specialized scalp massage techniques designed to stimulate growth
• Specific growth-promoting techniques: The Tawira have developed precise methods for maximizing growth, including directional massage that follows the desired growth pattern and consistent application schedules timed with lunar cycles
• Holistic approach: Traditional use combines batana oil with complementary dietary practices rich in nutrients that support hair growth from within

The results speak for themselves—the Tawira people are renowned for their exceptionally long, thick hair, often growing to remarkable lengths without the breakage and thinning common in other populations. This indigenous knowledge, refined over centuries, provides compelling evidence for batana oil's hair growth efficacy.

Modern application of these traditional techniques involves adapting the ceremonial practices to contemporary lifestyles while maintaining the core principles: consistency, proper massage, sufficient quantity, and patience during the growth process.

5. Comparisons with Alternative Hair Growth Solutions

When considering options for hair growth, it's valuable to understand how batana oil compares to other popular solutions. This comparison highlights batana oil's unique advantages for those specifically seeking growth benefits:

Solution	Growth Effectiveness	Advantages vs. Batana Oil	Disadvantages vs. Batana Oil
Minoxidil (Rogaine)	Clinically proven for regrowth	• FDA-approved • Standardized application • Extensively studied	• Chemical-based with potential side effects • Requires continuous use to maintain results • Does not improve hair quality • Can cause initial shedding
Castor Oil	Moderate growth support	• More widely available • Lower cost • Rich in ricinoleic acid	• Thicker consistency, harder to apply and wash out • Less pleasant scent • Fewer antioxidants and varied nutrients • Limited traditional evidence of efficacy
Coconut Oil	Minimal direct growth effects	• Widely accessible • Lower cost • Well-researched for hair protection	• Less comprehensive nutrient profile • Primary benefit is protein loss prevention, not direct growth stimulation • Less penetrative ability
Argan Oil	Indirect growth support	• Lighter consistency • Well-established market presence • Similar vitamin E content	• Typically more expensive • Less traditional heritage specifically for growth • More suited to styling than treatment
Hair Growth Supplements	Variable, depends on formulation	• Systemic approach • Easier to use • Addresses nutritional deficiencies	• No direct follicle stimulation • Don't address external damage • Potential systemic side effects • Results take longer to manifest
Batana Oil	Strong traditional evidence with emerging scientific support	• Comprehensive nutrient profile • Centuries of traditional use specifically for growth • Both external protection and follicle stimulation • Improves hair quality while promoting growth	• Limited availability • Higher cost than some alternatives • Requires commitment to application process • May be too heavy for very fine hair

What makes batana oil particularly distinctive in the hair growth landscape is its dual-action approach: it simultaneously addresses the internal structural needs of the hair and creates an optimal external environment for growth. While minoxidil directly stimulates follicles and castor oil primarily addresses scalp conditions, batana oil excels at providing a comprehensive approach to the multiple factors that impact hair growth.

For those seeking natural alternatives to chemical growth treatments, batana oil represents one of the most historically validated options with a growing body of scientific support for its efficacy.

6. Optimal Application Methods for Maximum Hair Growth

Maximizing hair growth results with batana oil requires not just regular application but also precise techniques tailored to different hair types and growth concerns. The following detailed protocols are specifically designed to optimize hair growth outcomes:

Frequency Recommendations Based on Hair Type

For Normal Hair with Moderate Growth Goals:

• Apply once weekly as a pre-shampoo treatment
• Use a light application (5-7 drops) twice weekly directly on the scalp at night
• Focus massage on areas where enhanced growth is desired

For Dry/Damaged Hair with Significant Growth Needs:

• Apply twice weekly, with one overnight intensive treatment
• Daily application (2-3 drops) to ends and thinning areas
• Weekly scalp exfoliation prior to treatment to enhance product penetration

For Oily Hair:

• Use as a pre-shampoo treatment once weekly
• Focus application on mid-lengths to ends rather than scalp
• Consider diluting with lighter oils like jojoba (2:1 ratio) for scalp application
• Apply to dry hair rather than damp to maximize absorption

For Intensive Growth-Focused Regimen:

• 2-3 applications weekly, alternating between overnight treatments and shorter sessions
• Combine with scalp massage using a wooden tool for 5-10 minutes per application
• Incorporate inverted positions during massage (head tilted downward) to increase blood flow
• Maintain consistency for at least 3-6 months for visible results

Application Techniques for Growth Stimulation

Growth-Boosting Scalp Massage Method:

1. Apply batana oil to fingertips
2. Start at the nape of the neck and work forward in small circular motions (1-inch diameter)
3. Apply medium pressure that stimulates but doesn't hurt
4. Pay extra attention to the crown and temples—common thinning areas
5. Finish with gentle pulling motions to stimulate follicles

Heat-Enhanced Growth Treatment:

1. Apply batana oil throughout hair and scalp
2. Cover with a shower cap or wrap
3. Warm a towel (using a dryer or hot water, then wringing out)
4. Wrap the warm towel around the covered hair
5. The gentle heat helps the oil penetrate more deeply into follicles
6. Maintain for 30 minutes, rewarming towel as needed

Measurement Guidelines for Different Hair Lengths

Using the right amount of batana oil is crucial for growth benefits without weighing hair down:

• For short hair: 1-2 teaspoons for whole-head treatment
• For medium length: 1-2 tablespoons
• For long/thick hair: 2-3 tablespoons
• For targeted scalp treatment only: 5-10 drops regardless of length

Remember that consistency in application is often more important than quantity. A moderate amount applied regularly will yield better growth results than excessive application performed sporadically.

7. User Testimonials and Experiences with Batana Oil for Hair Growth

The real-world experiences of those who have used batana oil consistently provide valuable insights into its effectiveness for hair growth. While results vary, these composite testimonials represent the typical experiences reported by users:

Success Stories

"After childbirth, I lost significant hair around my temples and crown. I tried various products with minimal results until discovering batana oil. After four months of twice-weekly treatments, my hairline has completely filled in, and my baby hairs have matured into full-length strands. My postpartum hair loss has completely reversed." - Maria, 34

"As a man experiencing early crown thinning, I was skeptical about natural remedies. After six months of consistent batana oil application three times weekly, combined with scalp massage, not only has the thinning stabilized, but I've experienced noticeable regrowth. My barber even commented on the improved density." - James, 42

"What impressed me most wasn't just new growth but the quality of new hair. After years of heat damage causing persistent breakage at my hairline, batana oil treatments have resulted in stronger, thicker new growth that actually reaches past my shoulders for the first time. The baby hairs I've had for years are finally growing to full length." - Taylor, 29

Balanced Perspectives

"Batana oil definitely improved the condition of my existing hair, making it stronger and less prone to breakage. While I didn't experience dramatic new growth, the reduced breakage has allowed my hair to retain length it previously couldn't, effectively resulting in longer hair over time." - Samantha, 38

"The results weren't overnight—it took almost 4 months before I noticed a difference. The key was consistency. My edges, which had been thin for years, gradually filled in. I wouldn't call it a miracle, but with patience, the improvement has been significant and worth the effort." - Keisha, 45

Timeline of Typical Results

Based on aggregated user experiences, here's what most people report in terms of timeline:

• Weeks 1-4: Improved shine and manageability, reduced breakage
• Weeks 5-8: Noticeable improvement in hair texture, early signs of reduced shedding
• Weeks 9-12: First visible signs of new growth, especially around temples and hairline
• Months 4-6: Significant improvement in density and filling of thin areas
• Months 6-12: Maximum results achieved, with continued use maintaining gains

Most users emphasize that patience and consistency are essential—batana oil works with the natural hair growth cycle, which takes time to show visible results. Those who reported the most dramatic growth benefits maintained their regimen for at least six months without interruption.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Batana Oil for Hair Growth

Even the highest quality batana oil won't deliver optimal hair growth results if application techniques aren't correct. Here are the most common mistakes people make and how to avoid them:

Application Errors

• Using excessive product: Too much batana oil can saturate the hair, making it difficult to remove and potentially causing buildup that clogs follicles. Solution: Start with smaller amounts (see measurement guidelines in section 6) and increase only if needed.
• Infrequent or inconsistent use: Hair growth requires regular stimulation and nourishment. Sporadic application won't maintain the follicle environment needed for sustained growth. Solution: Set a schedule and treat batana oil application as a non-negotiable part of your hair care routine.
• Insufficient scalp focus: Many users apply batana oil primarily to the length of their hair rather than the scalp, missing the most crucial area for growth stimulation. Solution: Always start application at the scalp, using fingertips to ensure the oil reaches the follicles.
• Inadequate massage: Simply applying the oil without proper massage limits blood circulation benefits essential for growth. Solution: Spend at least 5 minutes massaging the oil into your scalp using the techniques described in section 6.
• Applying to product-laden scalp: Product buildup creates a barrier that prevents batana oil from reaching the follicles. Solution: Apply to clean scalp or use a clarifying shampoo before intensive treatments.

Expectation Management

• Expecting immediate results: Hair grows approximately ½ inch per month, and visible results typically take at least 3-4 months. Solution: Document your journey with monthly photos to track subtle changes you might otherwise miss.
• Discontinuing at the first sign of shedding: Some users experience an initial shedding phase as the hair cycle synchronizes. This is often a positive sign that the follicles are transitioning to a new growth phase. Solution: Continue usage through this phase (unless experiencing irritation).
• Neglecting other growth factors: Batana oil is powerful but works best as part of a comprehensive approach. Solution: Ensure adequate nutrition, minimize heat styling, and address any underlying health issues affecting hair growth.

Product Handling

• Improper storage: Exposure to heat, light, and air can oxidize batana oil and reduce its efficacy. Solution: Store in dark glass containers in a cool place, tightly sealed.
• Overheating during preparation: Excessive heat destroys beneficial compounds. Solution: Warm batana oil gently (not exceeding 104°F/40°C).
• Not clarifying occasionally: Even with proper application, some buildup is inevitable. Solution: Use a clarifying treatment monthly to ensure follicles remain unobstructed.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll significantly improve your results when using batana oil for hair growth, allowing the full benefits of this traditional remedy to manifest in your hair's thickness and length.

9. Long-term Benefits of Consistent Batana Oil Use for Hair Growth

While immediate improvements in hair texture and reduced breakage are gratifying, the most significant hair growth benefits of batana oil emerge with consistent, long-term use. Here's what users can expect with regular application over an extended period:

Progressive Growth Improvements

• Increased hair density: Studies of oils with similar compositions to batana oil show potential for increased follicle activity over time, resulting in more hairs per square inch on the scalp. This cumulative effect becomes increasingly noticeable after 6-12 months of regular use.
• Extended anagen phase: The growth phase of hair follicles may be prolonged with consistent nourishment, allowing individual hairs to grow longer before entering the resting and shedding phases. This directly contributes to achieving greater length over time.
• Normalized hair growth cycle: For those with disrupted growth cycles due to stress, hormonal issues, or previous damage, long-term batana oil use helps re-establish a healthier pattern, resulting in more predictable and consistent growth.
• Reduced age-related thinning: The antioxidant properties in batana oil may help combat factors that contribute to age-related thinning, potentially slowing or reducing this natural process when used preventatively and consistently.

Cumulative Structural Improvements

• Better cuticle integrity: Ongoing protection strengthens the hair's outer cuticle layer, which in turn protects the inner structure and allows for retention of growth rather than breakage.
• Enhanced elasticity development: New hair grows in with better elasticity, making it more resistant to breakage from styling and environmental stressors.
• Improved diameter of new growth: Many long-term users report that new hair growth appears visibly thicker in diameter than previous growth, contributing to overall volume.
• Revitalized natural color: Some users report enhanced natural color depth and shine in new growth, possibly due to improved protein structure and melanin production support.

Scalp Environment Optimization

• Balanced microbiome: With continued use, batana oil helps establish a healthier scalp microbiome—the collection of beneficial microorganisms that protect against pathogens that could impede growth.
• Normalized sebum production: Over time, the scalp achieves better oil balance—neither too dry (which can cause brittle hair and flaking) nor too oily (which can clog follicles).
• Reduced inflammation markers: Chronic scalp inflammation, even at low levels, can disrupt the growth cycle. Long-term batana oil use helps minimize this common but often undiagnosed issue.

While some commercial hair products deliver quick but temporary results, batana oil's approach to hair growth is more foundational—it gradually creates the optimal conditions for your body's natural hair growth capabilities to function at their best. This explains why the most dramatic results are typically reported by those who have used the oil consistently for six months or longer.

10. Key Takeaways About Batana Oil for Hair Growth

• Natural, historical efficacy: Batana oil has centuries of traditional use specifically for hair growth by the Tawira people ("the people of beautiful hair"), providing ethnobotanical evidence of its effectiveness.
• Nutrient-rich composition: The oil's high content of vitamins E and A, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants provides the nutritional foundation needed for optimal hair growth.
• Multi-mechanism approach: Batana oil promotes hair growth through multiple pathways: follicle nourishment, scalp health optimization, cuticle protection, and improved microcirculation.
• Application technique matters: For maximum growth benefits, focus on thorough scalp application with proper massage techniques, appropriate quantities, and consistent frequency.
• Patience is essential: Visible growth improvements typically emerge after 3-4 months of regular use, with optimal results appearing after 6-12 months.
• Comprehensive approach works best: Combine batana oil treatments with proper nutrition, gentle hair handling, and regular scalp stimulation for synergistic growth benefits.
• Personalized application: Tailor your batana oil regimen to your specific hair type, growth concerns, and lifestyle for the best results.
• Quality matters: Pure, properly extracted batana oil delivers superior results compared to diluted or improperly processed versions.

When used correctly and consistently, batana oil represents one of the most promising natural approaches to hair growth enhancement, offering benefits that extend beyond simple length to include improved hair quality, strength, and scalp health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Batana Oil for Hair Growth

How long does it take to see hair growth results with batana oil?

Most users begin to notice the initial signs of improved growth after 8-12 weeks of consistent use. These early results typically include reduced shedding, new growth at the hairline or temples, and improved texture of existing hair. More significant and visible results in terms of length and density generally become apparent after 4-6 months of regular application. The timeline varies based on individual hair growth cycles, application consistency, and underlying scalp health.

Can batana oil help with hair thinning or pattern baldness?

Batana oil may help address early-stage thinning and mild to moderate pattern hair loss. Its benefits come from improving scalp circulation, reducing inflammation, and providing nutritional support to follicles. However, it's most effective for thinning caused by nutritional deficiencies, scalp issues, or damage rather than advanced androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). For genetic hair loss, batana oil works best as a complementary approach alongside medical treatments recommended by a dermatologist. Results are typically more pronounced when treatment begins in earlier stages of thinning.

How does batana oil compare to minoxidil for hair growth?

Minoxidil is a FDA-approved medication specifically for hair regrowth with substantial clinical research supporting its effectiveness. It works primarily by increasing blood flow to follicles and extending the growth phase of the hair cycle. Batana oil works through multiple mechanisms, including improved nutrition, scalp health optimization, and protection against damage. Minoxidil typically produces faster initial results but can cause side effects like scalp irritation and initial shedding. Batana oil generally produces more gradual results but also improves hair quality and has fewer side effects. Some users combine both approaches, using batana oil to improve overall hair health while minoxidil targets specific areas of thinning.

Will batana oil make my hair greasy, and how do I prevent this while using it for growth?

Batana oil can make hair appear greasy if overused or not properly applied. To prevent this while still receiving growth benefits: 1) Focus application primarily on the scalp rather than hair lengths; 2) Start with smaller amounts than you think you need (5-10 drops for targeted treatment); 3) For overnight treatments, protect pillowcases with a silk or satin cap; 4) Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo formulated to remove oils without stripping hair; 5) Apply batana oil to dry hair rather than wet/damp hair to control the amount absorbed; 6) Consider a "scalp-only" approach for very fine or naturally oily hair, applying the oil with a dropper directly to the scalp in sections. If greasiness remains a concern, limit treatments to times when appearance isn't a priority, such as evenings or weekends.

Can batana oil help grow edges and fill in thinning hairlines?

Yes, many users report success using batana oil specifically for edge and hairline regrowth. These areas often thin due to tight hairstyles, excessive manipulation, or hormonal changes, creating conditions that batana oil can effectively address. For targeted edge regrowth: 1) Apply a small amount of oil directly to the hairline using a clean mascara wand or fingertips; 2) Gently massage using circular motions for 2-3 minutes to stimulate circulation; 3) Apply consistently each evening; 4) Reduce tension-causing hairstyles during treatment; 5) Document progress with monthly photos of the hairline. Consistency is particularly important for edge regrowth, as these fragile areas require persistent care. Most users see improvement in hairline density within 2-4 months of daily targeted application.

Is batana oil safe to use during pregnancy for hair loss prevention?

Batana oil has been traditionally used by indigenous communities during pregnancy without reported adverse effects. It's a natural product without the hormonal activity or chemical compositions that typically raise concerns during pregnancy. However, as with any treatment during pregnancy, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning use. If approved, batana oil can be a supportive treatment for pregnancy-related hair changes, particularly when applied externally to the scalp rather than consumed. Many pregnant women experience increased hair shedding postpartum rather than during pregnancy itself, making batana oil potentially valuable for preventing excessive loss during this transition period through strengthening hair before delivery.

Conclusion

Batana oil is a versatile natural product with numerous benefits for batana oil for hair growth benefits. By incorporating it into your routine, you can enjoy its nourishing and healing properties. Always choose high-quality, organic batana oil for the best results.