Newly released files linked to convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein have brought to light an unexpected detail. Documents made public by the US Department of Justice do not merely catalogue Epstein’s influential connections; they also reference India’s 5,000-year-old Ayurvedic medical system and related massage techniques.
The disclosures were released pursuant to an order signed recently by US President Donald Trump, directing that Epstein-related records be made public within 30 days. The matter remains politically sensitive, with the Democratic Party having repeatedly pressed for full disclosure given Epstein’s links to powerful figures.
Ayurveda and ‘detox’ massage mentioned
One of the released documents refers to massage and Ayurvedic methods for ‘detoxification’, noting that a growing number of practitioners in Western countries are adopting treatments rooted in India’s ancient natural healing traditions.
The files also cite writings such as “The Art of Giving Massage”, which discuss the use of sesame oil for drawing toxins out of the body. Experts say the reference points to the increasing global acceptance of Ayurvedic massage and detox practices beyond India.
Political and celebrity references
The documents clarify that Donald Trump appears in only a limited number of photographs, while several images of former US President Bill Clinton are included. The files also mention a photograph of Epstein with late pop icon Michael Jackson.
The Justice Department has emphasised that neither Trump nor Clinton has ever been charged or found guilty of any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. It has also acknowledged that the release is not yet complete, suggesting that additional material may be made public.
Epstein’s death in custody
Epstein faced serious allegations of sexual abuse and trafficking of minors and was awaiting trial at New York’s Manhattan jail when he died in 2019, a death officially ruled a suicide.
Even after his death, questions have persisted about Epstein’s network, his access to influential circles, and the extent of political or institutional protection—making the release of these files a matter of intense public interest in the US and abroad.
Incomplete disclosure, debate likely to continue
The Justice Department has stated that not all records have been released so far. As a result, further disclosures could bring additional names, references and sensitive details into the public domain.
This unexpected facet of the Epstein files—highlighting India’s ancient Ayurvedic and massage traditions—underscores Ayurveda’s growing global footprint, even as the broader case continues to fuel political, ethical and legal debate. With influential names involved and disclosures still incomplete, the full picture is yet to emerge.
