Ayurveda Treatments

 

If you’re wondering what methods and forms of treatment Ayurveda uses, then look no further. The science of Ayurveda focuses on promoting health and well-being, but also cures ailments using a unique therapy called Panchakarma. Years of accumulated damage inflicted on the body by pollution, stress and poor lifestyle choices are reversed using this therapy. Panchakarma removes toxins, reverses diseases before they manifest, and revitalizes the body at an intrinsic level.

 

Panchakarma therapy involves a number of treatments like Abhyangam, Kizhi, Nasyam and Vasthi, to name a few, that cater to different parts of the body, and treat different ailments, achieving different effects.

 

Abhyangam

A medicated oil massage, it is relaxing and rejuvenating. It increases the flexibility of muscles and joints, stimulate tissues and keep toxins from accumulating inside the body.

 

Kizhi

A somewhat more boisterous massage, this treatment involves special herbal mixtures tightly wrapped in linen pouches which are then dipped in certain warm decoctions and used to gently pound the body. This provides direct nourishment to the soft tissues near the skin. Dhanya Kizhi, Ela Kizhi and Njavara Kizhi involving diverse medicated blends are variations of this treatment and target complaints ranging from rheumatism and cholesterol to weak limbs and certain skin disorders.

 

Pizhichil

A medicated oil massage, Pizhichil too is very relaxing, but is different in that a steady stream of warm oil is poured on the body for specified amounts of time.  

 

Shiro Dhara

A continuous stream of medicated oil is gently poured on the forehead, between the temples in this soothing treatment. Thakra Dhara is a variation of this using medicated buttermilk, while Karaskara Ksheera Dhara and Dhanyamla Dhara are variations that target the entire body. This treatment helps with insomnia, migraine, hearing impairment, vertigo, and even helps improve concentration and memory.

 

Tarpanam

In this treatment, a ghee based medicated decoction is retained around the eyes using a border fashioned out of herbal dough. This cooling treatment strengthens the optic nerves and even prevents cataract formation.

 

Thalapothichil

A buttermilk based herbal paste is applied on the head, covering it entirely, in this treatment. Also a soothing experience, this treatment helps with insomnia and offers stress relief.

 

Ushma Sweda

This medicated steam bath goes hand in hand with any and all treatments in Panchakarma therapy. Aromatic herbal steam fills the steam chamber, enveloping the body, opening pores, flushing out toxins and leaving the skin glistening and invigorated.

 

Vasthi 

In this treatment, lukewarm medicated oil is slowly poured into a doughy receptacle placed on the targeted region. The temperature of the oil is maintained throughout the treatment, making it a calming experience. This treatment too, comes in a number of variations, with Gala vasthi, Janu vasthi, Kadee vasthi and Shiro vasthi targeting the neck, knees, lower back and head respectively, and offering relief from pain and stiffness caused by injuries and degenerative diseases.

 

These different treatments that make up Panchakarma therapy offer a well-rounded approach that purges, rejuvenates and rebuilds the entire body.