Rasayana Chikitsa

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rasayana chikitsa

In one word, we can define Rasayana Chikitsa as Rejuvenation Therapy. What does Ayurveda says about Rasayana.

“रसायनतन्त्रं नाम वय:स्थापनमायुर्मेधाबलकरं रोगापहरणसमर्थम् च ॥“

(Susrutha Samhitha : Suthra Sthana: Chapter:1: Verse:7)

Rasayana Tantra is that branch of Ayurveda that describes the methods of withholding ageing, increasing the life-span, intelligence, strength and immunity.

In total, the Rasayana Chikitsa helps in overall improvement of health.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF RASAYANA CHIKITSA?

As per Charaka Samhitha, one of the most important texts in Ayurveda, the one who undergoes Rasayana Chikitsa will obtain:-

  • Prolonged life span
  • Increased memory power
  • Intellect
  • Health
  • Youthfulness
  • Good lustre
  • Shining complexion
  • Excellent voice
  • Strong body and sense organs

Charaka Samhitha, the best treatise that teaches the treatment modalities, dedicates four parts in the very beginning of its Chikitsa Sthana, (the section that teaches about the treatments). That itself shows how the Ayurveda gives emphasis on the prevention of diseases and protection of health. Yes, “Prevention is better than cure”.

TYPES OF RASAYANA CHIKITSA

There are mainly 2 types of Rasayana Chikitsa:-

 

  • Kutipraveshika:- In this method the treatment is administered by keeping the individual inside a specially constructed cottage, without being exposed to sun and wind. In this a special cottage, with narrow ventilators are constructed as per the instructions given in the treatises. After evaluating the climate etc, the individual, enters the cottage and is subjected to purification or Shodhana Chikitsa and thereafter Rasayana Chikitsa. The Shodhana is done after evaluating the nature of the body of the individual. The administration is different formulations or drugs are done for a definite time period, in prescribed dosages.

 

 

  • Vatatapika:- This treatment can be done even if the individual is exposed to wind and sun.

 

Note:-

The Rasayana Chikitsa should be strictly done under the supervision of a physician. The formulations and dosage are to be decided by the physician only as it varies according to nature of the body of the individual.

The individual should strictly follow the instructions of the physician.

Who All Are Eligible To Undergo Rasayana Chikitsa?

Even though the physician is the one who decides whether an individual is eligible to undergo Rasayana Chikitsa, here a general list is given below:-

 

  • Kutipraveshika:-
  • Able-bodied
  • Free from diseases
  • Intelligent
  • Having self-control
  • Having enough time to spare
  • Vatatapika:-
  • All others who are not eligible for Kutipraveshika Rasayana Chikitsa.

 

As we discussed earlier, Ayurveda not only gives importance to physical wellbeing but also to mental and emotional well being. Therefore Ayurveda also describes the good conducts, that when followed, will give rejuvenation.

REFERENCES:-

  • Susrutha Samhitha
  • Charaka Samhitha

Pizhichil

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pizhichil

The Pizhichil, is one of the Swedana methods. It is a modified version of Kayaseka, used in Kerala. This can be done as a main treatment or as a rejuvenation therapy.

HOW PIZHICHIL IS DONE?

In this, method the person is laid on the Taila Dhroni, a special table, and oil is poured continuously in special method. The duration of the treatment is important.

Warm oil is used throughout the treatment. The selection of the oil is done by the physician after considering the condition of the person and his/her health.

BENEFITS OF PIZHICHIL

Even though the Pizhichil comes under Swedana(Sudation therapy), it gives the effect of Snehana(Oleation therapy) also. The usage of oil gives this procedure such an effect.

INDICATIONS

In healthy persons, this procedure acts as rejuvenation therapy and helps in enhancing the health.

As a treatment, this procedure is beneficial in neurological disorders, degenerative disorders etc. It is important to understand that not all diseases that comes under the above mentioned groups are advised this treatment. The physician is the one who should decide the suitable treatment.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Usually not done in persons having:-

  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Fever
  • Digestive disorders
  • Respiratory

Pizhinju Thadaval a variant of Pizhichil is also popular in Kerala. In this procedure, the person is massaged in special way along with the pouring of the oil.

POST-TREATMENT CARE

The person should follow the instructions given by the physician. Some of the important things to be noted are:-

  • The person should use water that was boiled and then cooled down to luke-warm temperature for bathing.
  • He/she should take medicines prescribed by the physician, if any.
  • Light food is recommended for the person.
  • The person should avoid sexual intercourse during the course of treatment or till the physician suggests.

Njavara Kizhi

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njavarakizhi

Njavara Kizhi is also known as Shashtika Sali Pinda Swedam. From that term itself it is clear that it comes under the Swedanam or the Sudation Therapy.

Pinda Sweda or Kizhi is a special form of treatment formed and followed in Kerala. In this method, various medicines are used to make boluses that are packed in cloth bags and used to apply heat to the body. According to the type of bolus used the name of the Kizhi changes.

Njavara is a type of rice that has high medicinal value. The rice is cooked in medicated milk decoction. The well-cooked rice is tied in cloth as bolus. The bolus is kept warm throughout the entire procedure by dipping in medicated milk decoction.

INDICATIONS

This procedure can be done as a treatment and also for rejuvenation. Mainly done in conditions like:-

  • Neurological Disorders
  • Neuromuscular disorders
  • Degenerative disorders

CONTRAINDICATIONS

This cannot be done in:-

  • Diseases caused by Kapha Dosha
  • Conditions with oedema
  • Indigestion
  • Skin diseases
  • Heart diseases
  • Diseases related to urinary system
  • Obesity

The above said are the indications and contraindications of the Njavara Kizhi. But there are many other factors also to be considered before advising the treatment for the person. Only after a careful examination only a physician will advice the treatment.

POST-TREATMENT CARE

The person should follow the instructions given by the physician. Some of the important things to be noted are:-

  • The person should use water that was boiled and then cooled down to luke-warm temperature for bathing.
  • He/she should take medicines prescribed by the physician, if any.
  • Light food is recommended for the person.
  • The person should avoid sexual intercourse during the course of treatment or till the physician suggests.

Mukhalepam

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mukhalepam

Mukhalepam is done on the face. In this treatment the medicated paste is applied on the face and kept for specified time. The paste is made according to the condition of the person.

             During the treatment the person is allowed to sit or lie in a comfortable position. The thickness of the application also depends on the condition of the person. The thickness varies from thin to thick. Usually the applied paste is removed before getting completely dried.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE

        According to the condition, Mukhabhyanga or the massage of the face using suitable medicated oil is done. The person should not get himself exposed to fire, sun etc.

INDICATIONS

  The Mukhalepam is indicated in the below said conditions:-

  • Pigmentation of the face
  • Acne
  • Pimples
  • Blackheads
  • Wrinkles etc.

BENEFITS

The Mukhalepam have the following benefits:-

  • Improves complexion
  • Clear and flawless skin
  • Antiseptic properties

REFERENCES:-

  • Principles and practice of Panchakarma

Lepanam

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lepanam

This is a very simple treatment. But the action of the treatment is wide. Mostly the treatment is done locally and in special cases in entire body.

HOW LEPANAM IS DONE?

In Lepanam, medicated paste is made by mixing medicated powders with appropriate liquids. Depending upon the condition of the person and disease the selection of the medicines may vary. The prepared medicated paste is applied on the area or the entire body. The paste is removed after the specified time.

BENEFITS

Benefits of the Lepanam vary according to the medicine used. There are lepanams that have:-

  • Anti-inflammatory property
  • Analgesic property
  • Lepanams that help in removing pimples etc.

The action of the lepanam varies according to the medicines used for the lepanam. Therefore the person should inform the physician about his/her condition correctly.

Kizhi

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kizhi

Kizhi is a Malayalam word meaning “a bag filled with”. Here the bag is filled with medicines. The filling can be medicated powder, processed medicinal leaves etc. According to the medicine used inside the bag and the procedure the name of the kizhi changes. In Sanskrit this is named as Pinda Sweda. From the name we can understand that the procedure comes under Swedana type of treatment.

The procedure can be done in many different ways. Let us take a look on different types of Kizhis.

The Kizhis that are commonly used in various treatments are:-

 

  • Churna Pinda Sweda or Podi Kizhi
  • Jambira Pinda Sweda or Naranga Kizhi
  • Kati Kizhi
  • Anda Sweda or Mutta Kizhi
  • Pathra Potali Sweda or Ila Kizhi
  • Shashtika Pinda Sweda or Njavara Kizhi
  • Valuka Sweda or Manal Kizhi

 

CHURNA PINDA SWEDA

                       This procedure is known as Podi Kizhi in Malayalam. In this type the cloth bag is filled with medicated powders or Churnas, hence the name Churna Pinda Sweda. It can be done either after an oil massage or without oil massage. The requirement of oil massage is decided by the physician according to the conditions of the person.

JAMBIRA PINDA SWEDA

             Jambira means lemon. Here processed lemons are used to fill the bag. Before starting the procedure the person is massaged with medicated oils.

KATI KIZHI

              This is a variant of Curna Pinda Sweda. In this procedure, the powder is processed in Dhanyamla.

ANDA SWEDA

             This is also known as Mutta Kizhi. In this type of kizhi, boiled hen’s egg is processed and filled in the bag.

PATHRA POTALI SWEDA

            In Malayalam, this procedure is commonly known as Ila Kizhi. In this type of procedure processed leaves are used to fill in the bags.

SHASHTIKA PINDA SWEDA

           In this type, the bag is filled with processed rice. The rice used is of medicinal value. Usually the bags are dipped in milk during the treatment.

VALUKA SWEDA

         In this the bags are filled with processed sand.

Now let us take a look on how the procedure is done.

HOW THE PROCEDURE IS DONE?

        The person is asked to lie down on the specially set table. The body may or may not be anointed with medicated oil (this is decided by the physician according to the condition of the person and the treatment prescribed). The bags are heated according to the instructions of the physician and the heated bags are used for the sudation.

Follow the instructions of the physician to attain the full effects of treatment.

Remedies For Hair Loss In Ayurveda

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Remedies for hairloss in ayurveda

Ladies and gentlemen!!! We understand the pain when you realise that you are having hair loss. All most everybody in this world might have faced this problem. And we are sure that you might have already done a research in the topic. Now, what makes this article different from others? You might have already read a hundreds of articles about the causes, treatments, and remedies. This article speaks about what can be done to overcome the hair loss with the help of Ayurveda.

First we can discuss about the common types of Hair loss and its causes.

  • Male/Female pattern baldness
  • Alopecia areata
  • Telogen effluvium
  • Anagen effluvium
  • Hairloss due to some hormonal variations

Male/Female Pattern Baldness: – The main factor for this cause is genetics. But it may be also caused by the excess production of androgens. In females, this usually appears after menopause and the thinning occurs on the top and the crown of the head. The thinning starts as widening of the centre hair part. In males, the thinning occurs on the top and front of the head.

Alopecia areata:- This is a condition in which the hair falls of  in round patches. This may occur not ony on the head but also on the body. The condition may occur in various forms:-

  • Alopecia areata:- The loss of hair in small patches
  • Alopecia totalis:- The loss of the entire hair on scalp
  • Alopecia universalis:- The loss of hair all over the body

Telogen effluvium:- This is a condition of temporary hair loss that usually happens after a stress, shock or a traumatic event. In this case, large amounts of hair may fall off. The condition is often temporary and the hair usually grows back. The person may notice hair falling off during the hair wash or while brushing hair. The causes may include:-

  • Severe stress
  • Poor diet
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Pregnancy
  • Child birth
  • Menopause
  • Certain drug interactions
  • Underlying health conditions
  • Metal toxicity

ANAGEN EFFLUVIUM:- It is a pathologic condition in which the growth phase hairs fall off. The person may have partial or complete baldness. The causes of this condition are the following:-

  • Infection
  • Drugs
  • Toxins, for eg. In case of chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Auto-immune diseases, for eg. Arsenic poisoning, gold poisoning etc.

This is just a summary of the hair loss. Now let us see how we can cure hair loss with the help Ayurveda.

HAIR LOSS MANAGEMENT THROUGH AYURVEDA

First the cause of the hair loss is determined by the physician. Then according to the condition, the treatment is prescribed.

Ayurvedic treatments that can be done for Alopecia are:-

  • Siro udwarttanam
  • Nasyam
  • Abhyanga
  • Mild swedanam
  • Lekhanam
  • Virechanam
  • Raktamokshanam
  • Lepanam etc.

For other type of common hair falls:-

  • Mild virechanam
  • Nasyam
  • Siro abhyangam
  • Siro Basthi
  • Siro dhara etc.

Many internal medicines are also there to help manage hair fall.

Tips:-

  • Make sure that your diet includes the necessary nutrients.
  1. Proteins
  2. Biotin
  3. Vitamin C, A, D, B, E
  4. Omega  fatty acids
  5. Calcium
  6. Iron
  7. Zinc

That is make sure that your diet includes, eggs, citrus fruits, berries, spinach, fish, avocados, nuts, seeds, beans, meat etc.

  • Do not brush the hair when wet.

Dhanyamla Dhara

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Dhanyamla dhara

Dhanyamla Dhara comes under Swedana therapy (Sudation). Let us see what is Dhanyamla.

DHANYAMLA

Dhanyamla is a fermented medicated liquid. It has great anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It can help in the treatment of diseases caused by the Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha. The Dhanyamla is not only used in Dharas, but also for Basthi, Lepanam etc.

HOW DHANYAMLA DHARA IS DONE?

The person is seated on dhroni. Thalam is kept on the vertex of the head. According to the condition of the person Abhyanga may or may not be done.

While doing the Dhara the medicine may fall in the eyes or ears. To prevent that usually the eyes are covered with cotton pads and the ears are plugged with cotton balls.

The Dhanyamla is made warm and poured on the body continuously. The position of the person is changed in between the procedure. After the specified time, the body of the person is wiped and the coverings of the eyes and ears are removed. After proper rest the person can take bath in lukewarm water.

INDICATIONS

The Dhanyamla Dhara is indicated in conditions like:-

  • Diseases of Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha
  • Neuropathies, especially that related to Diabetes
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Rheumatic Fever etc

The person should consult a physician before undergoing the treatment. The person should follow the instructions of the physician.

Beauty Care Programme

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“Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder”; a famous proverb that explains about beauty. Isn’t it true? Two persons will have different opinions about same thing.

Having a fair complexion is not the meaning of beauty. Some people think that their dark skin does not make them beautiful. This is the main reason why there is big market for the fairness products. Whatever may be the colour, if the skin is flawless, all the eyes will admire you.

Make your skin:-

  • Even toned
  • Even textured
  • Moisturised
  • Firm
  • Smooth
  • Glowing

These all words are familiar to you through various advertisements. There are many products in the market that promise the above said qualities for your skin.

 

  • Even Toned:- Sun tan!! One of the biggest problems that will make your skin difficult to be even toned. The holes that we are making in the ozone layer are making the sun rays more and more harmful. We cannot sit inside the walls throughout our entire life fearing the tanning.
  • Even Textured:- Can you imagine your skin evenly textured? How beautiful it will be!! Unfortunately a majority is suffering from certain problems like:-
  1. Pimples
  2. Acne
  3. Blackheads
  4. Whiteheads
  5. Blemishes
  • Moisturised:- Moisturising makes our skin soft, healthy and youthful. Dry skin makes you look aged and dull.
  • Firm:- Improper care and lack of proper nourishment makes the skin sagged.
  • Smooth:- How will you feel if your skin is rough while touching?? Irritating!! That smooth feel can only be achieved by proper care.
  • Glowing:- If your skin have the above said qualities it automatically becomes glowing.

 

It is easy to explain the qualities. But to achieve it … Have to work hard. We are not only talking about just the face, but the whole body. We can make it possible through chemicals or through natural ways. Natural ways are comparatively slower, but long standing and healthy.

In Ayurveda, there are many methods that will help your skin to be healthy and beautiful.

 

  • ABHYANGAM:- Oil massage. There are many medicated oils that will help improve the lustre and health of the skin. The physician will help you to choose the best oil for your skin.
  • SWEDANAM:- Sudation therapy.
  • LEPANAM:- Application of medicated paste for a specified time.
  • NASYAM:- The errhine therapy.

 

The treatments are decided according to the condition and the nature of the skin. The physician will guide you to care your skin even after the treatment.

 

 

 

Viruddhahara or The Incompatible Foods

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viruddhahara

Ayurveda teaches that certain foods should not be mixed together. If mixed, they may act as poisonous food. Such combinations may cause many diseases.  Let us see some of the combinations that are incompatible:-

  • Meat of animals from marshy regions when combined with:-
    • Black gram
    • Honey
    • Milk
    • Germinated grains
    • Jaggery etc.
  • Fish and milk, especially in case of prawns
  • Foods that are sour with milk
  • Fruits with milk
  • Green leafy vegetables followed by milk
  • Mixing equal quantities of honey, ghee, muscle fat, oil or water.

Consuming Viruddhahara may cause the aggravation of doshas and may not be expelled from the body causing many diseases.

How To Beat The Summer With The Help Of Ayurveda

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How to beat the summer with help of ayurveda

Summer! Summer! Summer!!! Heat, sun, tiredness… and there are more terms that will come to our mind when we hear the word “summer”. Especially, in India, summer is a period with above average temperatures. So now let us check how we can cope up with the summer with the help of Ayurveda.

In summer, the sun rays get more powerful day by day and can be destructive.  According to the Ayurveda, the Kapha will decrease and the Vata will increase consequently. So the person will have to change his entire regimen according to the change in climate.

First let us see the changes to be made in the diet:-

  • Do not use the foods that are salty, pungent and sour. Include the foods that are sweet in taste.
  • Take foods that are easy to digest, moist, cold and that have more water content.
  • The person should drink more water
  • Drinks made with cold water and sugar can be used in this season.
  • Avoid alcohol intake during summer as it may cause delusion, emaciation, debility and burning sensation.  If necessary it should be taken in very small quantity or should be diluted with water.
  • Rice preparations can be taken.
  • Meat soup that is not very thick can be taken.
  • Buttermilk mixed with pepper powder and sugar can help in relieving the heat.
  • Juices that are made from multiple fruits like grapes, dates etc. can be used.
  • Cold water that is stored in mud pot is best to overcome the heat.
  • Cold buffalo milk mixed with sugar is best in this season     

Other regimens to be changed in the summer:-

 

  • The person should avoid the exposure to sunlight.
  • During day time, the person can spend time under trees or a place without direct sun rays.
  • Reduce the sexual activities.
  • Wear soft and thin dresses. Choose the colors that are light.
  • Engage in activities that make mind happy.

 

So, summer? No need to worry at all. Live the summer with Ayurveda, stay happy and healthy.

                                                                                       

Karkidaka Kanji or Special Medicated Rice Porridge For Monsoon

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We have already discussed the importance of ayurveda treatment during monsoon. Now let us see about “Karkkidaka Kanji” or a special medicated rice porridge that can be used in monsoon. This medicated porridge is rich in various medicines that can help to alleviate the vitiated doshas. The medicines are processed and mixed with a different variety of rice and made into porridge. Let us see the recipe of Karkkidaka Kanji.

Recipe of Karkkidaka Kanji

(For one person)

Ingredients:-

  1. Navara Rice (a variety of red rice) – 105 g
  2. Raw Rice                                             – 175 g
  3. Wheat                                                  – 140 g
  4. Uluva  (fenugreek)                            – 135 g
  5. Aasali (garden cress)                        – 14 g
  6. Orila (Desmodium gangeticum), Moovila (Pseudarthria viscida), Kurumthotti (Sida cordifolia), Thavizhama (Boerhavia diffusa), Chukku (dry ginger), Kurumulaku (black pepper), Jeerakam (cumin seeds), Elakkaya (cardamom), Illavangam (cinnamom), Pachila, Nagapoovu (Mesua ferrea), Ayamodakam (Ajwain seeds), Thamaravalayam (roots of lotus), Kothamoalayari (coriander seeds).

The last set of ingredients are to be taken in equal proportions which is then dried, powdered or crushed. These ingredients can be stored and used throughout the season. While making the porridge add 5g from the mixture for the recipe for one person.

Method of Preparation

  • Take Wheat, wash and mix with sufficient quantity of water and boil.
  • Add Navara Rice and Raw Rice after washing and boil.
  • Add Uluva and Aasali, cook well.
  • The last set of ingredients are washed, dried and powdered or crushed well.    Add powder or the crushed medicine, stir well and close the vessel for 10 minutes.
  • Take it as a food in the night.
  • Better to prepare in Bronze or SS Vessel. Avoid the use of Aluminum Vessel.

Why You Should Do Karkidaka Chikitsa or Monsoon Treatment

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Benefits of Karkidaka Chikilsa

Already we have seen about the Karkidaka Chikitsa or the treatments done in monsoon. Now it is the time to see a few points in detail.

ONLY MONSOON TREATMENTS?

Many may think why in the monsoon season, we should care about our body. Actually, in every season this care is to be given to the body. In Ashtanga hrdaya, a chapter is dedicated to explain the different types of climate, the changes that happens in our body in these climates and the regimen or the mode of living we should follow in these climates.

Then why we need “Karkidaka Chikitsa”? The doshas get vitiated more in this season due to the sudden change in climate. As we said earlier, summer’s heat is suddenly cooled down by the heavy monsoon. This makes a drastic change in the soil, atmosphere, water and even the food that we eat. This results in the vitiation of doshas. Apart from this, South India experience torrential rain and this explains the importance of Karkidaka Chikitsa in this part of the world.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS TO BE DONE?

In fact, Panchakarmas are the main treatments to be done in order to eliminate the doshas. And we have seen earlier, there are many other treatments that are to be done before and after Panchakarmas.

The treatments are decided by the physician according to the condition and age of the person. A complete history analysis is done and after that the treatment is decided.

If the person is having any ailments the treatment protocol will be in such a way to heal the ailment, eliminate the vitiated doshas and improve the health. If the person is healthy, then the treatments will be arranged to eliminate the doshas and improve the health.

PANCHAKARMAS THAT ARE DONE IN MONSOON

The five treatments are Vamanam, Virechanam, Nasyam, Anuvasana Basthi and Asthapana Basthi. All these treatments can be done in monsoon according to the condition of the person, especially the Anuvasana Basthi.

Why Anuvasana Basthi is given importance? It is because that the main dosha that gets vitiated is Vata and the anuvasana basthi is the best treatment for eliminating the vata.

Now let us see in detail about the panchakarmas.

There are some pre-operative and post-operative procedures for Panchakarmas.

The Pre-operative procedures or Purvakarma include Dipana, Pachana, Snehana and Svedana.

The Post-operative procedures or Paschatkarma include Samsarjana Krama, Rasayanadi Karma and Samana Prayoga.

You can book these ayurveda packages here.

Let us have a look on these.

PURVAKARMAS/ PRE-OPERATIVE PROCEDURES

As we have discussed earlier, the main cause of a disease is the disturbed equilibrium of Doshas/ humors (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). So elimination of the vitiated dosha is done with the Panchakarma. Before doing this, our body should be prepared by the following porocedures:-

  • Dipana
  • Pachana
  • Snehana
  • Svedana

Dipana and Pachana:- By this process the digestion is enhanced. Internal medicines are given to the person that will enhance digestion.

Snehana:- Internal and external oleation. Through this procedure the body becomes moist, soft, oily and is liquefied. According to the disease and the condition of body the procedure is decided.

Internal oleation is the administration of oils or fats internally.

External oleation is the external application of oils or fats externally. These include Abhyanga ( Massage therapy) etc.

Snehana can also be done as the main procedure to cure specific diseases or for the nourishment of the body.

Svedana:- The sudation therapy. By this procedure the vitiated doshas are driven from the extremities or other parts of the body to the Koshta or to the digestive tract.

In this procedure the body is made to sweat or perspire. This helps to relieve stiffness and heaviness.

Svedana is the prime modality treatment for various disorders.

It includes various procedures like Kizhi, Dhara etc.

PRADHANA KARMA/ PANCHAKARMAS

Vamana:- Emesis therapy. This helps in the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha. The individual, after proper analysis, is administered with the emetic drugs at proper time.

Virechana:- Purgation therapy. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Pitta Dosha. Here too, the procedure and the selection of drugs are done after thorough analysis.

Niruha Basthi:- Also known as Kashaya Basthi. Mainly different forms of Kashayas or decoctions are administered as enemas. But it is not merely an enema. It is a systemic therapy having a wide range of therapeutic effects. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Vata Dosha.

Anuvasana Basthi:- Even though simple, when compared to Niruha Basthi, it is an important treatment. This is widely used in the treatment of the Vata related diseases.

Nasya:-  Errhine  therapy. Here the medicines are administered through the nose. This is usually done to eliminate doshas from sinus, throat, nose or head. Nasya is really effective in the treatment of various CNS disorders, facial palsy etc.

All the above mentioned Panchakarmas are not only curative but are also used as rejuvenative and preventive measures.

POST-OPERATIVE PROCEDURES/ PASCHAT KARMA

After the purification therapies, the digestion and body itself becomes weak. The post-operative procedures help to regain the strength and digestion. This includes planned diet and restricted activities along with internal medicines.

Follow Ayurveda and live a happy monsoon.

You can discover and book the best of Karkidaka Chikilsa here

Karkidaka Chikitsa or Monsoon Treatment

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Karkkida Chikilsa

We all love rain. But do you know about the changes that take place in our body when the monsoon comes? And what is the importance of Karkidaka Chikitsa?

Rainy season comes after summer. In summer, the digestive fire gets debilitated. When the season changes suddenly, the digestion again slows down. That results in the vitiation of doshas. Along with that the heavy clouds, cold wind, polluted water etc results in further vitiation of doshas.

The vitiation of doshas may cause diseases or will aggravate the conditions already present. Here is the relevance of undergoing the ayurvedic treatment and following the ayurvedic way of living during the monsoon. The treatment methods are called as “Karkidaka Chikitsa” in Malayalam, in which “Karkidaka” is a month in the Malayalam calendar. It is during this season the monsoon starts in Kerala. “Chikitsa” means treatment.

The treatments done in monsoon are focused to alleviate the vitiated doshas. The Acharyas advice to perform purificatory therapies, that comes under Panchakarmas, to eliminate the doshas. After a thorough examination the physician evaluates the health of the person and decides the treatment routine. It may depend according to the health and other conditions of the person.

Ayurveda also advice to follow the following diet:-

  • Include the preparations with old grains.
  • Meat juices with spice is good during the season
  • Soups made from pulses can be included
  • Drink only boiled water
  • When the sunlight is very low, include food that are sour, salty, rich in fat, dry and that are easily digestible in diet.
  • Use of honey in food is good for health.

Avoid the following:-

  • Bathing and drinking in river water
  • Sleeping at daytime
  • Over exercise
  • Exposure to sun

Karnapooranam

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In Karnapooranam, the medicated oil is filled in the ear for specified time. Before beginning the main the procedure, local massage is done around the ears. After that mild fomentation is also given in the areas.

Then the person is asked to turn to any one side and the main procedure is done. The oil is made luke-warm before pouring inside the ears.

INDICATIONS

The Karnapooranam is beneficial in the conditions like:-

  • Ear Ache
  • Tinnitus
  • Deafness
  • Infections etc.

It can be done daily as a preventive measure for many conditions.

 

REFERENCES

Principles and Practice of Panchakarma

Snehapanam

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Snehapanam

The literal meaning of the Snehapanam is drinking of Snehas or fats. That may be oils, ghee etc. The procedure comes under Snehanam type of treatment. Snehanam types of treatments are generally categorised into two:-

  • Abhyantharam: Internal Administration
  • Bahyam: External Administration/Application

The Snehapanam comes under Abhyanthara Snehapanam. When studied in detail, there are many classifications under the topic Snehapanam. Here we are going to discuss about Acchapanam.

 

ACCHAPANAM

In this type the Sneha is given to the person directly as it is.

Again in Acchapanam there are 2 types, Shodhana (Purificatory) and Samana (Curative). In Acchapana, the Sneha is given in the early morning in empty stomach. When the Sneha gets digested, food is given to the person. The food should be easily digestible. The food and its quantity are decided by the physician.

Before the administration of the therapy a detailed examination and analysis of the person is done by the physician. After that only the dosage of the Sneha is determined. The digestion of the ingested Sneha is determined by the signs that are clearly visible. The dose of the Sneha is increased every day according to the time taken by the person to digest the Sneha on the first day.

The person should only drink warm water till the digestion of the Sneha is complete.

The duration of the treatment and the medicine used are determined by the physician. In case of nausea, the person can smell lemon.

SADYA SNEHA

This type of Snehapanam is administered for short duration and is usually administered in combination with dietary preparations.

These type of treatments are very important that they should be done only under the supervision of the Physician. It is also important that the person should follow the directions of the physician.

 

Sarvanga Kashaya Dhara

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Sarvanga Kashaya Dhara

The procedure can be explained from the name itself. The word “Dhara” means pouring of liquids continuously on the body. Here of course, from the name it is evident that the liquid used here is Kashaya or medicated decoction. The word “Sarvanga” denotes whole body. So in this procedure the whole body is poured with medicated decoction continuously for a specified time.

HOW SARVANGA KASHAYA DHARA IS DONE?

               The medicated decoction is made and kept warm. The person is asked to lie down on Dhroni. The body may be massaged if needed (this is decided according to the condition of the person). The medicated decoction is poured continuously for the specified time.

               The medicated decoction is changed every day. After the procedure is done the person is allowed to take rest for some time. After proper rest, the person is allowed to bath in lukewarm water.

               Care is taken to avoid the medicated decoction from falling into the eyes and ears. The eyes are covered with cotton pads and cotton balls are plugged into the ears before the procedure.

INDICATIONS

The procedure varies according to the type of decoction used for the procedure. Therefore the procedure has wide range of actions. Generally the procedure is used in conditions like:-

  • Wounds
  • The diseases caused by Vata Dosha etc.

Basthi

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Vasthi

BASTHI

Basthi is one of the Panchakarmas, the five main procedures of Ayurveda. When we compare the Panchakarmas alone, we can see that Basthi have more importance among the Panchakarmas.

Even though Basthi is the most important treatment for the diseases caused due to the Vata Dosha, it is highly effective in many complex diseases that are difficult to be cured. Since the treatment has wide range of therapeutic action it is considered as Chikitsardha.

Basthi not only have curative property but also have rejuvenative property.

BASTHI VS ENEMA

Usually the word “Enema” is used to explain Basthi. But Basthi is totally different from enema. Enema is the administration of fluids through anus to evacuate the contents of the lower colon.

In Basthi, medicated fluids are administered in to the anus. This is a complex treatment by which, even the most difficult diseases can be cured. Since both the Basthi and enema have similar methods of administration, we use the word “Enema” for describing Basthi.

CLASSIFICATION OF BASTHI

While studying in detail, there are many classifications for the Basthi. But here we are dealing with general classification:-

  • Niruha/Kashaya Basthi
  • Anuvasana Basthi

NIRUHA BASTHI/ KASHAYA BASTHI

In this type mainly different forms of Kashayas or decoctions are administered as enemas. It is a systemic therapy having a wide range of therapeutic effects. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Vata Dosha.

This procedure can be done for those who cannot undergo Virechanam. The Niruha Basthi is usually done in combination with Anuvasana Basthi

HOW NIRUHA BASTHI IS DONE?

The procedure is done in empty stomach. But it should be made sure that the person is not hungry. Mild Abhyanga and thereafter Swedana are done. The person is laid in the position. The Basthi is administered. The person is allowed to lie in supine position until he has the urge to defecate. After defecation, the person is allowed to bath in warm water.  After the bath, the person is given food that the physician has advised. Proper rest should be taken after that according to the instructions of the physician.

HOW ANUVASANA BASTHI IS DONE?

In this type of Basthi, medicated oils or fats are administered to the person. The Anuvasana Basthi is administered after food, mainly after the lunch. The person is given mild Abhyangam and Swedanam before the bath. After bathing in warm water the person can take lunch in the advised quantity. The person is laid in the position and the Basthi is administered. After the administration the person is given local massage. After some time, may be after 9 hours, the person will feel the urge to defecate.

UTTARA BASTHI

The Uttara Basthi is administered through genitor-urinary tract. In males, the procedure is done through urinary tract and in females it can be done through vagina or urinary tract. The procedure is done under highly sterile conditions.

The Basthi is one of the most important treatments in Ayurveda. Hence the person should approach the treatment seriously. He/she should follow the instructions of the physician obediently.

Nasyam

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Nasyam

Nasyam is one of the Panchakarmas. In this type of treatment, the medicine is administered through the nose. It can be used in many ways:-

  • As a daily regimen
  • As a treatment
  • As a rejuvenation therapy
  • As either pre-operative, post-operative or the main procedure

It not only cures the diseases that affect head, but also other systems.

NASYA AS A DAILY REGIMEN

It is advised to practise Nasyam as a daily regimen to protect your health. Daily practise of Nasyam can:-

  • Prevent many diseases.
  • Provide good skin
  • Help in the growth of hair
  • Prevent the greying of hair
  • Provide clear voice etc.

NASYAM AS A TREATMENT

The Nasyam is indicated in the following conditions:-

  • Many ENT diseases
  • Ophthalmic diseases
  • Sinusitis
  • Migraine
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Neurological disorders
  • Psychiatric disorders
  • Gynaecological disorders etc.

Depending upon the dose, action, type of the medicin used etc the Nasyam can be classified into many types.

HOW NASYAM IS DONE?

According to the dose of the medicine used Nasyam can be classified as Marsha and Prathimarsha.

Prathimarsha Nasyam uses only 2 drops. Moreover this can be practised daily.

Whereas Marsha Nasyam uses more than 2 drops and the dose is decided by the physician. This type Nasyam cannot be practised daily.

Usually Dhumapana (inhalation of medicated smoke) is done before the Nasyam. After Dhumapana, Thalam is kept on the vertex of the head. Slight fomentation is done locally. The person is then asked to lie down or sit in a comfortable position. Lukewarm medicine is instilled into the nostrils slowly and the person is asked to inhale slowly.

After the medicine enters the person’s face, head, shoulders, chest, palms, soles etc are massaged gently.

The mucous comes to the mouth of the person which should be spit out into the vessel kept near the person. The person should not get up from the position. He/she should tilt head to spit. After the time period the person can take rest.

The person should not bath or take food for one hour.

The person will be directed by the physician about what all he/she should do and what he/she should avoid. The instructions must be followed by the person to get complete benefits and to avoid the complications.

 

Kati Vasthi

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Kati Vasthi

Kati Vasthi

Kati Vasthi is a type of Swedana therapy. It is done in the Kati or low back region. Since it uses medicated oils, it also provides nourishment and moistness.

HOW KATI VASTHI IS DONE?

In this procedure, the person is asked to lie in prone position. A well-like structure or a frame is made and fixed on the low back region. While fixing it should be made sure that it should be leak-proof. After this warm medicated oil is poured into it and is held there for a specified time. After the procedure, the oil is removed and the person can bath in luke-warm water after 15 minutes of relaxation.

INDICATIONS

The Kati Vasthi is indicated in the following conditions:-

  • Low back pain
  • Sciatica
  • Degenerative disorders of the spine
  • Ankylosing spondylosis
  • Disc prolapse etc.

REFERENCES

Principles and practice of Panchakarma