Panchakarma
This five-fold purification therapy aims at correcting the
imbalance of the body's Doshas or bio energies (Vata, Pitta
and Kapha) in order to maintain their inherent equilibrium
and Ama, which forms as a result. Panchakarma therapy has
three main stages : Poorvakarma, Pradhanakarma and Paschatkarma.
Poorvakarma, the first stage, comprises essential preliminary
procedures for preparing the body to unload stored toxins.
The treatments help to loosen Ama (toxins) and move it out
to the deep structures into the gastro-intestinal tract,
where Panchakarma's cleaning therapies can then eliminate
it.
Pradhanakarma is the second stage and includes the main
cleansing therapies.
Paschatkarma is the final stage and describes the measures
employed after the main treatment, such as diet, medicines
and daily routine.
Abhyanga
A synchronized full body massage performed by two therapists
using specific herbal oils prescribed according to the body
type. Improves eyesight, promotes sleep and gives a glow
to the skin.
Udwarthana
A deep, dry massage using herbal powders to stimulate hair
follicles and tissue in order to break down the subcutaneous,
stored fat. Slimming of the body is the significant effect.
Choornaswedan
A vigorous massage, with a cloth bundle containing herbal
powders. Induces profuse perspiration leading to relief
of neurological disorders, rheumatism, arthritis and sports
injuries.
Navarakizhi
Massage with small linen bags filled with cooked Navara
rice. This procedure is highly rejuvenating, nourishing
and prepares the body for the stress and strain of a busy
lifestyle.
Pizhichil
A combination of two classical Ayurvedic treatments: Snehana
(oliation) and Swedana (sudation). Pizhichil is considered
to be the most natural way to purify different body systems,
to protect from illnesses and build up immunity for a healthy
life.
Sirodhara
Lukewarm herbal oil is poured in a continuous stream on
the forehead, while a gentle massage is simultaneously given,
also on the forehead, for rejuvenating and revitalizing
the body and mind. It relieves stress and strain related
problems, slows the aging process, improves memory, and
is known to have a curative effect on paralysis and other
neurological malfunctions.
Takradhara
Medicated buttermilk (takra) is poured in a stream (dhara)
on the forehead to calm and give relief from conditions
like insomnia, depression and other stress related problems.
Tarpana
Medicated ghee made with black gram powder, is smeared on
the eyes. This has a cooling effect on irritated and stressed
eyes.
Gandusa
Retention of medicated oil / decoration in the mouth for
several minutes. Lends a radiance to the face, improves
lines and wrinkles, tones the skin and assists with any
kind of mouth, voice or teeth disorders while cleansing
the ear, nose and throat pathways.
Kaval
Holding in the mouth and gargling with medicated oil/decoction.
Is highly beneficial for ear, nose, throat disorders; improves
the voice and brings a glow to the face.
Vamana
Administering herbal decoction to induce therapeutic vomiting.
Very beneficial for Kapha imbalances such as asthma, cough,
psoriasis and other skin disorders.
Virechana
Administration of Virechak Aushdhi, a purgative, in milk
or warm water. Alleviates excess Pitta in the body and helps
treat dermatitis, chronic fever, heartburn and jaundice.
Sneha Vasti
An oil enema. The main seat of the Vata Doshi is Pakwashaya
(large intestine), therefore Vasti is the main therapy for
all Vata disorders such as constipation, neurological ailments,
paralysis, flatulence, lower backache, gout and rheumatism.
Kashaya Vasti
This therapy is usually taken after a course of Sneha Vasti.
A cleansing enema of honey, oil and herbs leads to nourishment
and rebuilding of the Dhatus (body tissues), strengthens
their respective functioning, restores and fortifies the
body's immune system.
Nasya
The face, shoulders and chest are massaged with specific
herbal oils, inducing perspiration. The medicine is measured
out in the exact doze and poured into the nostrils while
inhaling. A highly effective treatment for headaches, sinusitis
and migraine.