Naftalan oil — Naftalan oil is one of the exceptional remedies used for the treatment of neurological, gynecological, urological, and skin diseases, as well as liver diseases, joints, and periarticular soft tissues related to the musculoskeletal system.
It is extracted from sources located in the city of Naftalan.
For the years 2026–2029, an Action Program has been approved to ensure the international recognition of the therapeutic effects of Naftalan oil and preparations made from it, including conducting new medical research and expanding the use of these products for medical purposes.
About the Naftalan Deposit
The Naftalan therapeutic oil field is located at the foothills of the Lesser Caucasus, southeast of Ganja city and near the Goranboy railway station. It is the only therapeutic oil deposit in the world and has been known for a very long time. Marco Polo mentioned the extraction of oil from wells dug in Naftalan for the treatment of skin diseases. At the end of the 19th century, German engineer A. I. Yeger drilled several wells on leased land in Naftalan and established a paid Naftalan treatment center. Historical records indicate that during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904–1905, jars filled with Naftalan ointment were found in Japanese soldiers’ first-aid kits, which proves its high therapeutic value.
It has been established that Naftalan oil positively affects the human body by increasing its overall reactivity. Therapeutic procedures using this oil provide analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and desensitizing effects, improve trophic processes and metabolism, restore nerve conductivity, reduce movement disorders, and increase the pain threshold.
Characteristics of Naftalan Oil
The Naftalan deposit belongs to the Maykop sedimentary layers. Seven oil-bearing horizons have been discovered here, but only two contain therapeutic oil. It is a thick, syrup-like mass with a dark brown color and olive shades, possessing a distinctive aromatic smell. It is characterized by a high content of naphthenic acids (0.8–3.0%) and highly polycyclic naphthenic hydrocarbons. The oil also contains sterins that undergo changes during distillation. It differs from other naphthenes by its “non-flammability.”
Currently, a world-class therapeutic health complex operates at the deposit. In medical practice, the following Naftalan oil preparations are used:
Naftalan Preparations
1) Native Naftalan (directly extracted from drilling wells);
2) Purified Naftalan (dehydrated Naftalan with added thickeners to increase density);
3) De-resined Naftalan;
4) Naphthenic hydrocarbons;
5) Therapeutic Naftalan mastic containing Naftalan, paraffin, wax, ceresin, and camphor.
Benefits of Naftalan Oil
Naftalan oil is a thick and sticky oil rich in naphthalene and other aromatic hydrocarbons. This oil is mainly extracted in Azerbaijan, especially in the Naftalan region. The unique characteristics of this area have made it widely recognized.
Medical Properties
Naftalan oil is used in the treatment of various diseases, including:
• Skin diseases: eczema, psoriasis, and other dermatological conditions.
• Musculoskeletal diseases: arthritis, osteochondrosis, and other inflammatory processes.
• Neurological diseases: radiculitis and neuralgia.
Spa Procedures
Naftalan oil is actively used in spa salons for massages and thermal procedures. It helps relax muscles and improve blood circulation.
Anti-inflammatory Effect
The application of Naftalan helps reduce inflammation and pain, making it beneficial for rehabilitation after injuries.
Cosmetic Procedures
Naftalan oil is used in certain cosmetic procedures to improve and moisturize the skin.
Application at Gashalti Hotel
Gashalti Hotel offers a wide range of Naftalan-based procedures, including:
• Naftalan baths: for general relaxation and improving skin condition.
• Naftalan massages: to reduce muscle tension and pain.
• Spa packages: комплексные процедуры для улучшения общего состояния здоровья.