Panchakarma Therapy
Panchakarma is a deep-rooted fundamental idea of Ayurveda, that health is a balanced state between all three doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha, which is defined as different forms of biological forces governing all the aspects of our physiology and psychology. When disturbances like stress, diet, environmental influences, or lifestyle choices cause imbalances in these doshas, they can give rise to ailments and discomfort. Panchakarma mainly works on this balance.
The therapy typically unfolds in three stages
Preparatory Phase (Purvakarma):
- This phase involves preparatory measures, such as dietary changes, herbal supplements and oil massages to prepare the body for the main procedures.
Main Procedural Part (Pradhanakarma):
- The main procedures include Vamana, Virechana, Basti and Nasya, administered in the prescribed order. These actions gradually cleanse the body and harmonize the doshas.
Post-Treatment Phase (Pashchatkarma):
- After completing the main procedures, the body needs time to fully recover. The post-treatment phase includes dietary guidelines, herbal support and lifestyle recommendations to ensure the benefits are sustained.
The Five Therapeutic Procedures of Panchakarma Therapy
Panchakarma comprises five different procedures that involve distinct processes each aimed at cleansing and body rejuvenation
- Vamana (Therapeutic Vomiting):
Vamana therapy mainly helps in combating Kapha dosha. In this therapy, controlled vomiting is induced by the trained physician which helps in removing excessive mucus and toxins from the upper respiratory tract and stomach.
- Virechana (Purgation):
Virechana, in other words, detoxification by controlled purgation helps in balancing Pitta dosha and helps in purifying the gut. Purgative herbs are given for controlled bowel movements.
- Basti (Enema Therapy):
Basti is the central therapy in Panchakarma and deals with Vata dosha. Medicated enemas, using herbal decoctions and oils, are administered to cleanse the colon, nourish tissues and release accumulated toxins.
- Nasya (Nasal Cleansing):
Nasya treatment involves balancing Prana Vata, which controls the head and neck region. Medicated oils or herbal powders are given through the nasal passage, which mainly benefits the neuro system and cures any sinus congestion.
All the above treatments are disease-specific and strictly conducted under the supervision of a trained physician.
