Rejuvenation and Revitalisation in Ayurveda

REJUVINATION

PANCHAKARMA

According to Charaka school According to Sushruta school

NASYA NASYA

VAMANA VAMANA

VIRECHANA VIRECHANA

ANUVASANA VASTI VASTI

NIROOHA VASTI RAKTHAMOKSHANA

Ayurvedic Rejuvenation

Re-juvenation literally means ‘to make young again’. In Ayurveda , rejuvenation or Rasayanachikitsa, is the golden way to attain longevity . A metamorphosis of the human body , it restores spirit and vitality .

An elaborate description of this process of revitalization has been described in the classical texts. According to Charaka , this miraculous change can be brought about if ‘’a man with resolution and purpose , full of faith and with no sins of the heart and he who wishes for the well-being of all creatures’’ undergoes a prescribed six-month course of rejuvenation . But this rigorous and disciplined process of classical Ayurvedic rejuvenation is virtually impossible in modern times.
Panchakarma

The Ayurvedic rejuvenatory treatment practiced today is called Panchakarma (Pancha means five and karma , action) . This five – fold treatment is designed for Shodhana , the eradication of the basic cause of disease. Shodhana , the eradication of the basic causes of disease. Shodhana and Shamana , the mitigation of the disease and its symptoms , are the two concepts of disease management in Ayurveda.

Panchakarma has not only been intended for an out and out elimination of disease – causing toxins but also to replenish the tissues with nourishment . This is why it is often termed as rejuvenation therapy.

The Pentad of Panchakarma

According to the Charaka School , the pentad of Panchakarma includes

1. Vamana (emesis therapy)

2. Virechana (purgation therapy)

3. Nasya (errhine therapy)

4. Anuvasana Vasti (theraoeutic enema with medicated oil )

5. Nirooha Vasti (enema with herbal decoction)

Considering that vitiation of blood could also be a causative factor for certain diseases ,Sushruta devised surgical venesection for letting out vitiated blood. Later , the Sushruta school combined the two main divisions of Vasti into one category and added Raktamokshana or letting out the vitiated blood as the fifth division of Panchakarma .

How the Panchakarma is Performed

Panchakarma therapy is performed in three stages: Purvakarma (preparatory procedures ), Pradhanakarma (main treatment ) and Paschatkarma (post – treatment care. )

Puvakarma prepares the body for the discarding of toxins through Snehana (internal and external oleation ) and Swedana (therapeutic sweating ).
Sneha helps to liquefy the amam and other toxins in the dhatus (tissues ). Swedana is the therapeutic application of heat to the body which helps dilate the body channels (srotas) to facilitate the toxins to move to the Koshta (alimentary canal ). From the Koshta, they can be expelled by any of the Panchakarma procedures .

Paschatkarma – the post- treatment care- includes the diet regimen and other dos and don’t s.

Purvakarma

Purvakarma procedures are broadly divided into three-Pancha, Snehana and Swedana .

Panchana (digestion )

In this kind of Prvakarma ,drugs to help digest amam present in the stomach in the form of molecules of indigested food material are given to the patient .

Purvakarma

Snehana (oleation )

Oleation is carried out in two ways :

1. Bhaya (externally)

2. Abhyantara (internally)

Bahya Snehana (External oleation )

Oils prepared with herbal decoctions are massaged over the body . These saturate the body and help liquefy amam present in the srotas (body channels ).

Abhyantara Snehana (Internal oleation )

Here , medicated ghee (ghruta ) is ingested to liquefy the amam in the various srotas (body channels ) of the system . This is also known as Snehapana.

Types of Bahyasnehana

Pichu

Pichu is seated in a chair in an upright position . After preparatory procedures like an oil massage , the prescribed oil is applied on the head, the prescribed oil is applied on the head . A head hand or vartti is then tied around the head just above the level of the ears . The pichu is then dipped in the medicated oil , spread over the head and the oil poured on it till it is totally drenched . After a while , the pichu is replaced with a new one , and the process repeated .

Types of Bahyasnehana

Shiroabhyanga

Shiroabhyanga is, simply , the process of applying oil in the head before taking a bath . Keralites have made this a part of their daily routine .

Abhyanga Snana

Abhyanga or Abhyanjana is the process of rubbing medicated oil over the entire body . Not even the earlobes are to be left out . After a while , the oil is thoroughly washed off using medicated powder for the body and medicated shampoo for the head .

Abhyanga can be included as a daily routine before having a bath . This kind of oleation serves as an absolute preventive measure against many ailments related to the Vata dosha , especially for people of Vata prakurti . It is also a good preventive against skin diseases and improves skin complexion . Application of oil in the head helps for sound sleep at night and also improves eyesight .

Abhyanga is not suited for those who suffer from ailments due to the vitiation of the Kapha dosha.

Sweda (Sweating or Sudation )

There are various sweating methods in vogue . Prominent among them are

1. Pindasweda /Navakizhi

2. Ooshmasweda /Bashpaswedana

3. Nalisweda

4. Avagahasweda

5. Upanahasweda

6. Patrasweda

Though Sweda procedures are a pre-requisite for Panchakarma , even on its own , they given relief for ailments like asthma , catarrh ,voice constraint and so on. The treatment helps dilate the body’s srotas (channels ) for the removel of toxins which are transported to the bowels . From there , they can be effectively eliminated through Vamana or Virechana .

Pindasweda or Navarakizhi

The pindasweda or Navarakizhi is the most important of the Swedanakriyas (sudation or sweating procedures ) . It is used not only as part of the Panchakarma but also an effective treatment for many diseases due to Vata disorders , including hemiplegia . The duration for the Navarakizhi is the same as for Dhara . Here , a bundle of linen filled with a bolus of shastika or navara rice that has been cooked with milk and herbal decoction is used for fomentation . This fistsized bundle containing the medicine is known as the kizhi

For an effective Navarakizhi, five people are required to attend to the patient . Two people stand on either side of the patient who is made to lie on a droni, a special wooden bed used for treatment .

Pindasweda or Navarakizhi

The duty of the fifth person is to facilitate the changeover of dry linen bags with new ones that have been dipped in warm medicated ointment (kuzhambu), which is kept at a constant temperature . The therapists use their right hands to foment the patient , and simultaneously massage with their left hands using similar motions .

To ensure that no area of the body is left untouched , there are seven standard positions that a patient is made to adopt during treatment . These include sitting ,lying on the back ,lying on one side , lying on the back again , lying on the other side , lying with face down and finally , lying on the back .

After the fomentation , the paste (kuzhambu) is removed slowly with palm leaf scrapers . Then , prescribed Oil is applied after which the patient takes a bath using a special medicinal powder instead of soap and medicinal shampoo.

Ooshmasweda or Bashpasweda

The patient is made to either sit in or lie on his back in a specially made steam box ,with only his outside . Herbal steam is released into the box for a specific time . The patient can be given cool liquids to prevent dehydration. This kind of steaming is not advisable for those suffering from hypertension ,leukemia and so on .

Nalisweda

Here, steam of boiling herbal decoction is applied on the affected area through the nozzle of a tube or nail, which penetrates in to the tissues along with the oil smeared on the body(from Bahyasnehana) to produce healing effects .

Even on its own , the procedure can be used to effectively treat backaches and localized muscle spasms.

Avagahasweda

The patient is made to sweat while sitting in a tub filled with medical decoction . This kind of Sweda is good for rheumatism , painful urination , hernia and so on .

Upanahasweda

Here, a warm mixture of medicated paste and herbal oils is applied on the affected part , covered with cloth or leaves and then tied up . The poultice is kept on for nearly 12 hours.

Patrasweda or Ilakkizhi

Finely chopped herbal leaves warmed in medicated oil are put on a piece of linen and a fist-sized bundle made. This is used for fomentation (kizhikuthu). In cases of rheumatism and other diseases due to disorder of the Vata, fomentation in the affected area brings great relief . Other methods of sudation include Podikkizhi and Dhara.

Podikkizhi or Churnasweda

A linen bag filled with Churna (medicated powder ) is periodically dipped in herbal decoction and used for fomentation , the duration of which varies according to disease conditions , up to a maximum of one hour . A normal bath is recommended soon after the fomentation . A diet regimen also has to be followed for a few days . Podikkizhi is effective for ailments due to Vata and Kapha disorders.

Shirodhara or Moordhanya Dhara

Here ,the oil is poured on the forehead of the patient

Procedure

After the preparatory application of oil on the head and the upper part of the body, the patient is made to lie on his back on a droni with the vessel for the dhara , hung six to eight inches above his forehead. A headband (vartti ) is tied around the forehead just above the eyebrows to prevent oil from flowing into the eyes and to direct its flow straight down from the temples . The warm oil from the vessel is then let out in a continual flow through a spout at the bottom . For a seven –day treatment , the patient will be subjected to dhara only three to four times , for about 20 to 40 minutes . Recent researches show that this therapy induces vasodilation within the brain , enabling increased flow of oxygen to the brain and nourishing the nervous system .

Takradhara

The Shirodhara is very effective for treating diseases affecting the head , eyes , for chronic sinusitis and some cases of insanity. It is also used to treat some diseases caused by Vata disorders . It is soothing effect on the central nervous system alleviates stress and calms the mind , which in turn improves the power of comprehension and memory .

Sarvangadhara

Sarvangadhara is the process of pouring oil over the whole body with simultaneous massaging . It is of two types :

1. Dhara over the whole body except the head

2. Dhara over the whole body including head.

For a really effective dhara , at least five people are needed to attend to the patient but nowadays usually only two people perform this therapy.

Before staring the dhara , oil should applied on the head of the patient . The plant is then made to lie on a droni and two attendants each stand on either side , one to oil the upper portion of the body and the other , the lower . Nozzled mud pitchers (kindis) are used for pouring the oil , which should be kept warm throughout the course of the treatment . While the attendants pour oil , which should be kept warm through out the course of the treatment . While the attendants pour oil with their right hands , they also massage the patient , at intervals ,using their left hands. The fifth attendant replaces empty pitchers with new ones .

Sarvangadhara (Ksheeradhara)

The flow of oil over the body should be almost incessant for a specific period and no area should be left uncovered .

After the dhara , the body is wiped with a towel . Before the patient takes a bath with warm water , the same oil is applied lightly all over the body . For removing the oil from the body and the hair , green gram paste and some herbal shampoo are usually used . After the bath , the hair is dried with a towel and then medicated powder , usually Rasnaadi churna , is applied on the crown to absorb moisture .

Ksheeradhara , is dhara with milk mixed with a medicated decoction.

Pizhichil

Pizhichil , which literally means squeezing , is a unique contribution of kerala. Though it is actually a process of sudation used as a Purvakarma treatment , it has also been proved to be highly effective on its own for treating diseases caused due to vitiation of the Vata humour , especially Pakshaghata (hemiplegia ), paralysis , muscle spasms and other degenerative diseases affecting mucles .

In pizhichil , warm medicated oil is squeezed over the patient’s body from a piece of cloth that is periodically dipped in a vessel containing the unction or Kuzhambu. The unction used here is slightly more viscous than that used in Sarvangadhara.

Four attendants under the supervision of a physician perform the treatment . The attendants squeeze the oil with their right hands and simultaneously massage with their left hands in downward strokes . The patient should be made to adopt the seven standard positions to ensure that no area of the body is left uncovered .

The Pentad

Vamana (therapeutic emesis)

Vamana is a purificatory process intended mainly for the expulsion of vitated Kapha . This is a planinless, drug –induced emetic process. Vamana cures diseases like acne , asthma , arthritis , chronic cold, diabetes and various other Kapha disorders .

Purvakarma

The first stage of Purvakarma includes external and internal oleation . After three to seven days of oil therapy , the patients skin becomes shiny and soft and the body has the smeel of the oil. At this time, oil will be present in the urine and faeces . Then , the patient is subjected to th e second stage of therapy , sweating , which mobilizes the liquefied amam and directs it to the Koshta (stomach ) . From there it can easily be thrown out during the Pradhanakarma.

Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis)

The night before starting the Pradhanakarma , the patient is given kapha exciting food which includes black gram soup , yoghurt and warm licorice tea . The next morning , the patient is given gruel prepared with milk to which rock salt has been added or porridge of wheat and milk or anything else that promotes watery secretion .

After this , the patient is given the emetic . The most important and widely used emetic is prepared from Madhana ( Randia Dumeotorum ). Another popular herb is the Vacha (Acorus Calamus) .

After half an hour , the patient starts to vomit . To stimulate further vomiting , he is given warm diluted milk at intervals . The patient should be gently massaged with upward strokes around the navel and downward strokes on his back . If there are pains of a severe kind,Dhanvantaram Kuzhambu may be rubbed.

Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis) Pradhanakarma

Once the stomach becomes empty , the vomiting will automatically stop in case , it continues with a yellow liquid discharge , counter measures are taken to stop it immediately . The physician then observes the quantity of vomitus and compares it with the quantity of fluids taken . In a successful emesis ,the quantity of vomitus is more.

According to an old standard , whether an emesis is successful or not is determined by noting the frequency of vomiting . The first two times are not counted . Accordingly , it a patient has vomited eight times , there has been maximum expulsion of toxins or Uttama shhuddhi, if the number of times is six , there is average emesis or Madhyama Shuddhi and if four times , minimum emesis or Avara shuddhi.

Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis)

Paschatkarma or Post-treatment Care)

After emesis , the patient is made to inhale medicated smoke . This is called Doomapana. Gargling is also good for the patient .

The patient is then made to take complete rest. Even talking loudly is restricted during this time . Exposure to sun , due and mist is also to be avoided .

Vamana shouldnot be performed on children , old or weak people , pregnant women and those suffering from hepatitis or tuberculosis.

Virechana

Virechana is for the elimination of Pitta related toxins from the body. The process of cleansing is carried out in the small intestine and other Pitta zones. Here , drugs that stimulate bowel movements are induced for the expulsion of excess Pitta and other doshas via the rectum .

Purvakarma

Internal and external oleation followerd by therapeutic sweating are essential before Virechana. It is important to remember that if the patient has already undergone emesis therapy , the next treatment of any kind should be after 15 days at least , so as to allow him to return to his normal diet . Moreover , even if the patient has had oil and sweat therapies during emesis therapy , they must be carried out again before Virechana.

Virechana (Purgation Therapy )

Purgation should be carried out after Kapha kala . This is towards noon when the Agnibutha (fire element ) in the environment reaches its peak. Pitta also against predominance inside the human body at this hour . Since the purification process is intended for the Pitta region of the body , this is the proper time for purging .

In kerala , the usual practice is to give the Purgatives around 6 am in the morning . They are prepared using roots and fruits of herbs like Trivrit(lpomoea Turpetuhm ) , Jayapala (Croton Tiglium ), Aragvadha (Cassia Fistula) and so on . Avipatti churna is used as a laxative .

Virechana (Purgation Therapy)

Pradhanakarma

The dose of the drug is determined according to the Patient’s constitution . The dominance of any one of the doshas (humors) –Vata, Kapha, Pitta -determines his constitution . A strong dose is necessary for Vata dominant people . Medium and small doses are given to Kapha and Pitta people respectively . The type of constitution , whether Krura koshta , Madhya koshta , or Mrudu Koshta, can be found out from the condition of his bowels .

The process of purgation will normally start within two hours of taking the purgatives . Drinking hot water also acts as a stimulant . The faecal discharge turns fluid after seven or eight bowel movements . First the faeces , then the toxic Pitta and finally toxic Kapha are discharged .

Virechana is good for treating diabetes , colitis , jaundice , spleen enlargement , arthritis , dysuria , asthma and all types of intestinal disorders . This therapy is not advisable for infants , the old and prepagant women .

Nasya (Errhine Therapy )

The application of medical oils or powders through the nostrils is called Nasya According to Vagbhata, the author of Ashtanga Hrudaya .’’Nasahi Shirasoo Dwara’’which means ‘’Noastrils are the doorway to the Shiras (brain )’’.

Nasya , an important method of treatment for illness of the head region (Urdhwanga Chikitsa), has been discussed elaborately in the classical texts.

NASYA VIRECHANA BRUMHANA NASYA SHAMANA NASYA
AVAPEEDA DHMANA

Nasya (Errhine Therapy )

Types of Nasya

The main types of Nasya include Virechana Nasya, Dhamana Nasya, Brumhana Nasya and Shamana Nasya .

Virechana Nasya

1. Avapeeda Nasya

This is a synoym for Virechana(purificatory ) Nasya. Here medicated lubricants like oil , ghee and paste , various herbal decoctions , honey and so on are used to act as purgatives in the head .

2. Dhamana Nasya

Dhamana Nasya is another synonym for Virechana Nasya . It differs from Avapeeda in that here, the medicine insufflated into the nostrils is in the form of powder (churna) and not fluids.

Types of Nasya

Brumhana (nourishing ) Nasya

Medicated oil ,juice of herbs and so on that act as roborants and nourish the tissues are used in Brumhana Nasya
Shamana nasya(palliative ) Nasya .

Demulcents in Prathimarsha dose are used for ShamanaNasya. These neither nourish nor purge but mollify the symptoms of illness to bring immediate relief .

How Nasya is Performed

Nasya is also carried out in the three stages of Purvakarma ,pradhanakarma and Paschatkarma .

As a preparatory process , the forehead and the neck region of the patient is gently massaged with suitable oil for sweetening . There after the parient is made to lie down on his back with his head slightly bent back . Warm oil is then dripped in to both nostrils which are patient draws in .

After the treatment , the throat , cheeks and forehead are massaged softly Gandusha (gargle ) is also advisable as a measure of post treatment care.

Benefits of Nasya

If the Nasya therapy has been carried out effectively , kapha related toxins from the paranasal sinuses are eliminated and the region nourished . Due to this ,the patient feels great relief in the head and clarity of the sense organs. Breathing becomes completely unobstructed which gives sound sleep at night . Olfactory improvement is also felt .

Nasya is excellent for chronic sinusitis , headache , throat diseases ,epilepsy ,catarrh ,migraine ,voice constraint , eye diseases and cervical spondilitis .

Marsha and Prathimarsha Nasya

These are terms to denote the dose of herbal oil insufflated into the nostrils .

Marsha Nasya

The dose or matra of Marsha Nasya is heavier and is divided in to three taking in to the consideration the severity of the illness ,age of the patient and his general health . Its three divisions are Uttama matra or maximum does of 10 drops , Madhyama matra or medium dose of eight drops and Heena matra or minimum dose of six drops . Marsha Nasya is not administrated to those below seven years of age or above eighty years .

Pratimarsha Nasya

The dose of Pratimarsha Nasya is two to three drops in each nostril .

According to classical texts , this dose will be the most effective if administrated soon after one gets up in the morning , after cleaning one’s teeth , after using collyriums ,after meals , after any physical exercise including sex , after urinal or feacal discharge , after vamana or emetic therapy , after loud laughter ,after daytime nap and before sleeping at night .

When Nasya is performing at these times , it restores the balance of Vata that has been excited an any of the above –mentioned kinds of exertion . It also brings about Srota –shruddhi ie purification of the channels of the body and refreshes the body .

Vasti (Therapeutic Enema)

The word vasti means bladder . Traditionally , the urinary bladders of animals like cows or buffaloes were filled with medicated liquids and used for enema. This is how the treatment got its name . The bladder has now the treatment got its name . The bladder has been replaced with modern equipment . However , this therapy in no way corresponds to the modern enema or colonic irrigation .

Vasti’s effects are directly felt in the colon , the prime abode of the Vata. With the application of a series of purifying and nourishing Vastis , the morbid doshas and other toxins trapped for long in the tissues are eliminated . This restores the equilibrium of the humors .

Vasti is good for spleen disorders , colic ,calculus , kidney stones and many other diseases due to a Vata disorder but not to be used for those affected by diabetes , piles , persistent hiccups , obesity and injuries to the anus.

Two major Divisions of Vasti

Vasti with herbal oil is called Anuvasana Vasti and that which uses herbal decoction is Nirooha vasti . Nirooha Vasti is divided into two types –Dwadasa Prasruta vasti and Dasa PrasrutaVasti –according to the quantity of herbal decoction used for colonic introduction .

During treatment , both Anuvasana and Nirooha Vasti are administered alternately for specific periods depending on the patient’s constitution and the severity of the disease.

How Vasti is Performed

As with all the other Panchakarma purification procedures , here also oil and sweat therapies are essential . After this , lukewarm and freshly prepared Vasti liquid is injected into the colon via the rectum .

In Anuvasana Vasti , no harm will occur if the fluid remains inside the colon for long but in Nirooha , the fluid should be discharged with in 45 minutes to one hour . While Nirhooha stimulates the eliminatory process, Anuvasana nourishes and strengthens the colon . In both cases , the discharged fluid will contain amam and other toxins along with the faecal matter.

Vastis According to Duration of Treatment

Yoga Vasti

This is an eight – day treatment consisting of eight therapeutic enemas, prescribed for patients who have a Kapha constitution and disease due to Vata disorders . The treatment begins with an Anuvasana , alternates with three Niroohas and concludes with two Anuvasanas .

Kala Vasti

This 15-day therapy is prescribed for patients with Pitta constitution suffering from Vata disorders . For the first 12 days, Anuvasana and Nirooha are given alternately . In the last three days, Anuvasana is given repeatedly .

No of Anuvasana Vastis to be administered -9

No of Nirooha Vastis to be administered -6

Vastis According to Duration of Treatment

Karma Vasti

Karma Vasti is a rather elaborate program of treatment lasting for 30 days . Patients with Vata constitution suffering from acute Vata disorders undergo this type of therapeutic enema . Karma Vasti begins with two days of Anuvasanas , followered by Niroohas that alternates with Anuvasanas for the next 23 days , The course ends with five more Anuvasanas for the last five days.

Vastis According to Herbal Compounds Vsed

To achieve certain specific purposes besides the general scope of the Vasti therapy , suitable herbal compounds are to be prepared . These are blended with the basic Vasti Fluids used for Anuvasana or Nirooha . Such Vastis are further classified into various types according to the function they perform in the body , usually through Nirooha .

Shodhana Vasti

Here the decoction is prepared with herbs which act as purging agents . Elimination of toxins from the body is its main function .

Lekhana Vasti

Lekhana Vasti also purges but here the dose is stronger than in Shodhana Vasti. The quantity of liquid used is also different .

Shamana Vasti

Shamana Vasti is a palliative . The decoction used contains certain drugs which are demulcents . These alleviates pain and bring relief .

Vastis According to Herbal Compounds Vsed

Brumhana Vasti

For this nourishing Vasti, robarant herbs that nmourish and strengthen the dhatus are used . Most of the Anuvasana Vastis carry out this Function .

Vajeekarana or Rasayana Vasti

Aphrodisiac and rejuvenating herbs are used in this type of Vasti to promote sexual vitality and vigor . It is also a good treatment for infertility .

Madhu thailikam

This is a kind of Shodhana Vasti where honey and oil are used . This kind of enema is the best way to assess a patient’s bowel condition .

Other Special Vastis

Uttara Vasti

Here the medicated oil is introduced through the vagina and cervix in females and through the penis and urethra in males . This treatment is used for certain diseases of the genitor – urinary system .

Matra Vasti

For this Anuvasana , a very small quantity of medicated oil – a maximum of for ounces – is used. No oil or sweat therapies and no diet regulations are necessary . This therapy , which acts as a good vitaliser , can be performed regularly after meals and is extremely invigorating to those emaciated by overwork or those who indulge in excessive sex . It also helps in alleviating excess Vata.

Raktammoksha (blood letting )

According to Sushrutha , certain diseases are caused by vitiation of blood . These can be effectively treated by letting out the vitiated blood . So he devised surgical venesection called Raktamokshana. Subsequently the Sushruta school of thought combined the two main divisions of Vasti- oil and decoction – into one category of the Panchakarma.

Leeching

First , the area where the leech is to bite must be cleaned and dried . Then , a drop of milk is applied on the affected area or a small cut made after which the leech is placed on it . The milk or blood will induce the leech to bite into the flesh and suck out blood from the diseased part. After sufficient quantity of the unclean blood has been drained out , a little powdered salt or honey is applied to the mouth of the leech so that it lets go of its hold . The wound is then washed with cold water and bandaged after applying medicines .

The leeches used for treatment are usually kept in a pot or a little tank filled with mud and pond water and fed adequately. Care is taken to ensure that only non-poisonous leeches are used . If poisonous ones are used , the leeching causes itching , fever and even , in some cases , delirium .

Other Important Treatments

Shirovasti

Shirovasti like Urovasti and kativasti , cannot be classified as a type of Vasti . The only reason why this treatment , like the other two , has Vasti as part of its name is because of its similarly to the actual Vasti. Here , oil is allowed to stay on the Patient’s body for a while using not a bladder but some other kind of container .

In shirovasti , a leather cap of about six to eight inches height is kept on the shaven head of the patient and a vartti tied . Then kneaded dough is used to line the inside of the cap . Oil poured into the cap and kept on the head for a while .

Shirovasti is used for treating cataract and ear ache , ailments affecting the carnial nerve and those affecting the region of the head due to Vata disorders.

Vrovasti

U rovasti is administrated on the uras or chest. In this treatment , a small tank of dough is made on the chest, around the region of the sternum , and medicated oil is poured into it and kept there for a specific time. The treatment is used for treating pain in this area .

Kativasti

Here, oil is poured into a dam of black gram dough made on the lumbosacral region and kept there for a specified time . Kativasti is used to treat pain of the lower back.

Vdwartana

Here , the patient is massaged with medicinal oils or with dried , finely pulverized herbal powder (churna) . While the oily massage cures many kinds of nervous disorders, the dry one is effective for treating obesity , rheumatoid arthritis and many Kapha disorders . The uniqueness of this therapy is that the stroking motion during the massage is upwards the heart .

Talapotichil

In Talapotichil – covering of the head –the crown is kept covered with gooseberry paste for a specific time. To make the medicinal paste , gooseberries , from which the seeds have been removed , are soaked in a mixture of buttermilk and medicinal decoction . This is then stored in earthen vessels overnight . The next morning , the soaked gooseberries are ground to a coarse paste to be used for application on the patient’s body .

Talapotichil

The patient has to either get his head shaven or hair cut really short before undergoing treatment . First , a headband (vartti ) is tied on and then oil applied on the head of the seated patient . After this , enough gooseberry paste is applied all over the head to about three cm of thickness . The paste is kept on for a prescribed time .

While removing the paste , the attendant ensures that the paste covering the crown is removed last . Once the entire paste has been removed , a fresh dose is applied and this also kept on for a while . After wiping off the second dose , oil is applied on the head and then a bath is to be taken .

This is used to treat ailments due to Vata disorders like facial paralysis , Pakshaghata or hemiplegia and so on.

Talam

Application of Medicated paste on the crown of the head is called Talam . Talams are of various types according to the nature of the ailment . Talam precedes treatments like Pizichil , Navarakizhi and Sarvangadhara.

Karnapoorana

Karnapoorana means filling the ears . In this treatment , the patient is made to lie down on one side and lukewarm , purified and medicated oil , prescribed according to the illness, is gently poured into the ear. After remaining in the same position for about five minutes , the patient turns and then oil is applied to the ear also . In severe cases , the process is repeated for a week or more.

Karnapoorna

Karnapoorna , which is also an integral part of all massage therapies , is recommended for

1. Otorrhea – a condition where there is some sort of discharge from the ear, commonly the purulent discharge due to chronic middle ear infection .

2. Tinnitus or karnakshweda – condition in which a person hears buzzing sounds in the ear.

3. Deafness
It is also used for some other ailments affecting the ears and is a protective measure against headaches .

Netravasti or Akshitarpana

Application of medicated oil on the eyes is called Netravasti.

Here, after the patient has been subjected to eliminatory procedures like emesis or purgation , he is made to lie on his back on a table and then a tank of flour paste,three to four cm high , is built around his eyes . Now while the patient keeps his eyes closed ,medicated ghee is poured gently into the dam , over both eyes . After sufficient quantity of the unction has been poured , the patient opens and closes his eyes intermittently , for a maximum of five minutes . The duration varies according to the nature of the ailment . For sometime after the completion of the treatment , the patient is not allowed to expose his eyes to strong light .

Ailments for which Netravasti is Recommended

1. Adhimantha roga or Orbital cellalitis – Inflammation of the connective tissue of the eyes

2. Ahishyanda roga or Conjuntivitis

3. Glaucoma – condition in which loss of vision occurs due to an abnormally high pressure in the eye .

4. Ratrandhya or night blindness

5. Other eye diseases caused by vitiation of the Vata or Pitta doshas.

Traditional Beauty Treatments

The secreat of beauty , according to Ayurveda , is Ojas – the subtle quality of vigour or vitality , which is the superfine essence of the seven dhatus . If one stays healthy in body , mind and spirit , one’s Ojas stays strong and this force creates a radiant inner self and a beautiful outer self .

However , for enhancing physical beauty , Ayurveda recommends a number of time –honored natural treatments .

BEAUTY TREATMENTS

FOR THAT EXTRA GLOW!

FACE PACKS

FOR WRINKLES

FOR PIMPLES

FOR SCARS

FOR DARK PATCHES

INDEGENOUS SHAMPOOS

For that Extra Glow !

Turmeric –scandalwood face pack

Mix pastes of wild turmeric (kasturi Manjal / Curcuma Aromatica) and red sandalwood ( Pterocarpus Santalinus Linn), two famous beauty aids , to make a face pack . Apply the pack and wash it off before it dries completely .

Green gram face pack

Mix the powder of green gram ( Phaseolus Radiatus ) powder in cow’s milk and add a dash of limejuice , and a pinch each of turmeric powder and common salt to make a face pack . Apply and wash off before it dries completely . Green gram powder can also be mixed with a paste made from Kasturi manjal and fresh limejuice . This pack must also be washed off before it dries completely .

Other Face Packs

Barley powder face pack ( for normal skin)

Mix one teaspoon of barley powder in two teaspoons of lemon juice and one teaspoon of cow’s milk . Apply and leave on for 15 minutes . Wash off with lukewarm water.

Cocunut face pack (for normal skin)

Mix one table spoon of Sea kale (Crambe Maritime) in two tablespoons of coconut oil . Massage the mixture well in to the face starting with the top of the face and going down to the neck . Keep massaging for about 15 minutes and then wash off with lukewarm water laced with a few drops of lemon juice. Follow with a cold –water rinse.

Face Packs

Pea powder face pack (for oily skin )

Mix pea powder in two tablespoons of rosewater and a quarter table spoon of lemon juice . Allow the pea powder to soak for at least half an hour . Apply the paste and leave on for 15 minutes . Rinse off with lukewarm water.

Mint face pack (for dry skin )

Soak one teaspoon of mint powder and one tablespoon of Multani mitti or Fuller’s earth in one tablespoon of yoghurt for half an hour. Blend well. Apply the pack and leave it to dry . Then wash off with lukewarm water followed by a cold-water rinse.

For Wrinkles

Cucumber -mint face pack

Make a paste with ten mint leaves , a two –inch cube of cucumber and Multani mitti or Fuller’s earth . Apply and wait for the pack to dry well Wash off. This pack is also effective for removing excess oil .

Honey –lime juice face pack

Mix equal parts of dwarf bee honey , ghee ( clarified butter ) and lemonjuice to make a massaging combination . Use daily for a few days.

For pimples

Kasturi manjal face pack

Grind a bit of Tulsi (Indian basil / ocymum Sanctum ) leaves is also effective in combating pimples .

For pimples

Green gram face pack

Mix some green gram powder with milk and a little limejuice . Apply daily for a few consecutive days .

Paachotti – coriander face pack

Make a paste by mixing the ground bark of Paachottis (Simlpocos Larina ). Coriander leaves and the roots of Vayambu (Acorus Calamus Linn) in tender coconut water . Apply and wash off before it dries completely .

For Scars

Read sandalwood face pack

Make a paste by grinding red sandalwood ( Pterocarpus Santalinus Linn) in cucumber juice . Apply daily for over a fortnight .

Neem face pack

Make a paste with the leaves of Neem ( Arya vep / Azadirachta Indica) and tender turmeric ( Paccha manjal / Curcuma Longa Linn). Apply for a few minutes before bathing everyday for a fortnight . This can also be used anywhere on the body .

Cucumber face pack

Make a solution with milk cream , cucumber juice and the honey of dwarf bees ( Apis Florea ) taken in equal quantities and whip well . Apply evenly and rinse off before it dries completely .

For Dark Patches

Nutmeg face pack

A pack made by mixing dried , powdered nutmeg I cow’s milk is a good antidote for dark facial patches brought on by fatigue , ageing and so on .

Mint – yoghurt face pack

Soak some Multani mitti or Fuller’s earth in yoghurt for about half an hour . Add mint powder and blend well . Apply the mix and leave to dry . Wash off with lukewarm water followed by a cold water rinse .

Manjetti face pack

The roots of Manjetti ( Rubia Cordifola ), commonly found on the higher regions of foothills all over the sub-continent is used to make an effective face pack . Dry and powder the roots . Mix the powder with the honey of dwarf bees and butter or ghee clarified butter to get the paste for application .

Thalis (Indigenous Shampoos)

Long before soaps and shampoos were even heard about , the women of kerala used indigenous shampoos or thalis . Various herbs were ground to paste , juiced or powdered to make these thalis .

Chemparathy thali

The most famous thali is the really soapy juice from the leaves , flowers and buds of the common shoe flower ( Chemparathy / Red hibiscus )

Hibiscus is also one of the main components of another shampoo prepared by noted for prevention of hair loss and premature graying . To make this shampoo , add the strained juice of three hibiscus flowers , two handfuls of hibiscus leaves and one handful each of Henna ( Mailanchi / Lawsonia ) and Thulasi ( Indian basil / Ocymum Sanctum ) leaves to a solution of cold tea and limejuice .

Thalis

Kurumthotti thali

Another effective thali is a paste of the medicinal herb Kurumthotti ( cida Rombifolia ) This herbis found commonly in the countryside and has been credited with many medicinal qualities by ancient Ayurveda . Besides removing oil and grime completely , kurumthotti thali also keeps the scalp cool for an entire day .

Padappan thali

The rich soapy thali made by grinding the leaves and stem of the creeper Padappan ( Ellipanthus Thwaitesii ) , into a paste is excellent for cleaning the hair and scalp. This also gives softness and glow to the hair . Padappan is commonly found in the kerala countryside .

Thalis

Thiruthaali thali

Another famous thali is the paste made form the leaves and vines of the herb thiruthali (Ipomea Cepicria Roxb ), found growing frofusely on the hedges of the kerala countryside .

Vaaka thali

The paste made from grinding the bark and flowers of the vaaka ( Albizzia Lebbeck ) tree makes another effective thali .

Thalis

Mailanchi thali

A paste made from the leaves of the Henna shrub ( Mailanchi / Lawsonia Inermis ) gives the hair body and bounce , promotes hair growth , and combats dandruff and hair loss. It is also a famous natural dye .

Tulsi thali

Sandalwood and Tulsi ( Indian basil / Ocymum Sanctum ) are also used to make shampoos , though rarely . The Tulsi thali is used to rid of lice .

Thalis

Green gram shampoo

The thick round central stem of bananas , known as kalamundan , is sun –dried and burnt . The ashes thus obtained are used as shampoo. They can be stored and used over a long time .