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Treatments

Treatments

Poonthottam Ayurvedasram
Ayurvedic Treatments

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Time-honoured Treatments

Ayurveda is a holistic healing system which has earned its validity from the effective results it has obtained for over numerous centuries. The treatments under Ayurveda use a combination of medicines made with comprehensive herbal compounds, lifestyle changes like incorporating guided yoga and customized meals, and external therapies like counselling to treat the root cause of diseases and provide the most effective cure possible.

We use a five-fold method which includes dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, Panchakarma and external therapies, internal medicine, and therapeutic exercises. Our distinctive therapies allow our patients to regain the wholesome balance that is required for maintaining good health and complete wellness, in the most flexible and comfortable manner, helping them live in harmony with nature.

Aasthaapana Vasti

Aasthaapana is one of the Pancakarma procedures where combinations of herbal medications are administered through rectal route, for local as well as systemic effects. It comprises herbal decoctions, oils, pastes, rock salt, honey etc., based on the requirement of patient. There are different kinds of Aasthaapana Vasti based on their action in the body, method of administration, ingredients used etc.

Abhyangam

Abhyangam is an Ayurvedic procedure that involves the application of medicated oils over the body, followed by massaging with a certain amount of pressure and in specific directions. The treatment can be applied to the entire body or specific areas. This therapy is used in martial arts - like Kalari, art forms - like Kathakali, and daily routines - like self-massage before a shower. Therapeutic massage through Abhyangam is specifically indicated for various disease conditions.

Anuvaasana Vasti

Anuvaasana Vasti is a procedure where medicated oils are administered through the rectal route. It acts as a supportive Vasti for the Aasthapana (to reduce the ruukshata created by the medicines in Aasthaapana, in different protocols like Yoga, Kaala and Karmavasti) and as a preparative Snehavasti before Aasthaapana. Maatraavasti is a simplified milder form of Anuvaasanavasti which is administered for people who cannot undergo the severe protocols of normal Vasti.

Avagaahasvedam

Avagaahasvedam is a type of sudation therapy, in which the patient is made to sit in a tub containing medicated dravadravya (medicated liquids – decoctions, oils etc.) to induce sweating in the body. This can be done for the whole body of specific body parts.

Cuurnapindasvedam

Cuurnapindasvedam is a type of sudation therapy, where warm bolus of herbal powders is used for massage to induce sweating. Oil application is performed prior to the Svedana, over the areas depending on the condition. The pinda can be heated either directly on a pan or using the steam of boiling decoctions. This can be done for the whole body of specific body parts.

Dhaanyaamladhaara

Dhaanyaamlam is a medicated liquid obtained from rice, lemon, dry ginger, horse gram, herbs and millets, tied in a cloth and boiled in water for 7 days continuously. The warm medicinal liquid is poured over the patient’s body continuously for 45 minutes. It is used to treat inflammatory conditions.

Dhuumapaanam

Inhalation of herbal smoke is prescribed for diseases where Vaata and Kapha are aggravated, and for both prevention and cure. It has immense scope in the management of many chronic infections of the head and neck.

Ganduusham and Kabalam

Oral retention of lukewarm or cold liquids is named as Ganduusham. In Ganduusham there is no space left in the mouth when the medicine is filled, and the procedure is done keeping the mouth closed. The oral cavity is rinsed thoroughly by the medicine but the reach to the throat is limited. This helps clear the diseases of the oral cavity. Gargling of lukewarm liquids in the mouth and throat is called Kabala. In Kabalam there is space left inside the oral cavity and the medicine is made to circulate in the throat and oropharynx, by keeping the lips open and forcing the breath out through the mouth gradually while retaining the medicines in situ.

Jaluukaavacaranam

Jaluukaavacaranam is a bloodletting therapy using medicinal leeches to detoxify the body and promote natural healing. Leeches remove impure blood, detach naturally and leave minimal marks, with the area cleaned and dressed for recovery. It is done in comditions of pitta aggravation.

Kativasti

Kativasti is a treatment in which specially prepared warm medicated oil is held for about 45 minutes within a boundary made of herbal paste over the lower back. This treatment is beneficial for spinal disorders, back pain, lumbar spondylosis, degenerative intervertebral disc prolapse, sciatica, etc.

Kashaayadhaara

Dhaara with kashaaya is a treatment in which a warm decoction is poured all over the body. The kashaaya used for the dhaara is made with medicines prescribed in accordance with the dosha conditions of the patient. It can be done locally or generally. In kapha conditions, it should be warm and in pitta cold.

Kshiiradhaara

This is a treatment in which lukewarm medicated milk is made to flow slowly and consistently over the patient’s forehead or the whole body with a simultaneous soft massage, for a particular duration. Kshiiradhaara can be done for proper blood circulation of the body and relaxation of the mind, as well as lubricating the joints, relieving pain, spasms, and stiffness of the muscles and joints.

Karnapuuranam

Karnapuuranam is a procedure in which the ears are filled with lukewarm medicated oil and retained for a prescribed period of time. Filling of the ears can be done only in the lateral position, and hence only one ear can be filled at a time. The ear will be well examined in advance for any tympanic perforation.

Lepam

Lepam is the application of medicated herbal paste on targeted body parts. It is very effective for alleviating inflammatory conditions and is also good for treating skin diseases. Lepam is also used for improving skin complexion. The thickness of the paste depends on the severity of the particular condition. Lepam is not administered to patients who are sensitive to heat and/or have sensitive skin. When applied on the face, the procedure is called Mukhalepam.

Nasyam

This is a procedure wherein medications are instilled into the nasal cavity. It is performed to treat diseases affecting body parts above the base of the neck and also to remove the unwanted kapha from the same area in a preventive way, hence it is incorporated into the daily routine as well. By habituating Nasya, the benefits like consistency and clarity of the skin (without blemishes and marks) can be acquired. Sense organs will become strong and it delays premature greying of hair. Nasya will not be done before 7 years of age and after 80 years of age.

Netratarpanam and Putapaaka

Tarpanam is a treatment where medicated ghee is retained in the eyes. This is done for non-inflammatory and degenerative conditions, to correct refractive errors and indicated only when redness, lacrimation, pain, irritation and excretions aren’t present. Putapaakam is the retention of herbal extract squeezed out of cooked medicinal leaves. It is mostly for strengthening the eyes after Tarpanam.

Netradhaara

Netradhaara is a special kind of Kashaayadhaara, which is done for inflammatory eye disorders. The patient’s eyes are inundated with continuous dhaara of herbal extracts that are preventive and curative in function.

Pracchaanam

Pracchaanam is one of the blood-letting therapies which is done when the vitiated blood is very viscous and localised. Here, small multiple pricks or incisions are made on the affected site from the distal side to the proximal and the vitiated blood is let to flow out. When the bleeding stops, the area is cleaned with herbal decoctions and the wounds are dressed.

Patrapindasvedam

The word patrapinda is derived from ‘patra’ meaning leaves and ‘pinda’ meaning bundle. Pathrapindasvedam or Ilakizhi is a treatment involving sudation using herbal leaves. Effective for treating diseases related to bones, joints, and the nervous system, it improves blood circulation, relieves stiffness and pain, improves muscle strength and skin complexion. It is usually prescribed for individuals with arthritis, myalgia, spondylosis, sports injuries, or neurological disorders.

Picu

Picu is a soothing therapy used primarily for localized pain and neurological conditions. It involves placing a cloth or cotton pad soaked in warm medicated oil over a specific area of the body, such as the head, lower back, or joints. The retained warmth and medicinal properties of the oil help nourish tissues, relieve stiffness, and calm the nervous system. Picu is often recommended for conditions like insomnia, headaches, cervical spondylosis, and chronic pain.

Pancakarma

Pancakarma is a cornerstone of Ayurveda, designed to cleanse the body of toxins, restore balance to the doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and to reset the internal programs of body. The term "Pancakarma" literally means "five procedures" and refers to five therapeutic treatments used to detoxify the body and rejuvenate the system. These procedures are deeply holistic, addressing both physical and mental well-being. Pancakarma is personalized and carried out under expert supervision for maximum benefit. The five cleansing methods are Vamana, Virecana, Vasti, Nasya, and Raktamoksha.

Snehapaanam

Snehapaanam is an internal oleation therapy that involves the oral intake of medicated ghee or oil, usually as a preparatory step before detoxification procedures (Pancakarma). The word "Sneha" means oil, ghee etc., and "Paanam" means drinking. This process helps lubricate the body's tissues, loosen and bind the accumulated toxins, and prepare the digestive system for deeper cleansing. Snehapaanam is carefully tailored to each individual, with dosage and duration depending on their condition and body constitution.

Shashtikapindasvedam

Shashtikapindasvedam (Navarakizhi) is a therapy that involves the application of warm, cooked medicinal rice (called Navara) tied in a cloth into boluses, which are gently massaged over the body. This treatment is highly nourishing and rejuvenating, promoting muscle strength, improving skin texture, and alleviating stiffness or pain. It is beneficial for conditions like arthritis, neurological disorders, and general body weakness. Navarakizhi combines the effects of massage, heat, and herbal nourishment, making it a powerful therapy in Ayurvedic rejuvenation (Rasaayana) treatments. It can be performed generally or locally.

Shashtikadhaara

This is an improvisation of Shashtikapindasveda, which was developed at Poonthottam, by observing a fact that when shashtikapindasveda is being done all over the body by two people on either side of the patient, there is a possibility of getting generalized stiffness and rigidity of the body. The method is just like whole body kaayaseka. This therapy is deeply nourishing and is known for its rejuvenating and calming effects. It helps improve skin tone, enhances muscle strength, supports the nervous system, and is especially useful in treating conditions like neurological disorders, insomnia, and fatigue.

Siraavyadham

Siraavyadham is a bloodletting procedure used to eliminate impure blood from the body. It involves controlled puncturing of a vein (Venesection) with sterile scalp vein set, to release a small amount of blood, helping to relieve pressure, reduce inflammation, and clear toxins. This technique is especially beneficial in conditions like skin diseases, gout, varicose veins, hypertension, and certain types of headaches. Siravyadham is considered one of the most effective Raktamokshana methods and is performed under strict supervision by experienced Ayurvedic practitioners.

Takradhaara

Takradhaara is a variety of Zirodhaara, in which medicated buttermilk processed with other kashaayas are poured in a continuous stream over the forehead, in a prescribed manner. This is a special treatment developed in Kerala. It alleviates the diseases arising from kapha and pitta aggravation, especially in the kaphasthaana. This is not ideal for vaata disorders. Takradhaara is commonly used to treat conditions like stress, insomnia, psoriasis, high blood pressure, and scalp-related issues. The cool, medicated buttermilk has a deeply relaxing and refreshing effect, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance.

Tailadhaara

Tailadhaara is a sudation therapy in which lukewarm oil is poured all over the body/specific part for a stipulated period, in a prescribed manner. It has the advantage of producing Snehana & Svedana simultaneously. Tailadhaara is more specific than Pizhichil as the area where the oil has to fall, the height and direction of movement of the oil can be decided more accurately. It is particularly beneficial for conditions like muscular pain, joint disorders, arthritis, and stress. It helps improve circulation, relieve stiffness, and promote overall vitality by soothing the nervous system and enhancing the body's natural healing abilities.

Upanaahasvedam

Upanaaha is a type of sudation therapy that involves the application of warm herbal poultices or cloths smeared with medicated pastes to specific areas of the body. The poultices are tied or applied to areas such as the back, joints, or limbs, and this induces sweating in those areas. This therapy helps to relieve muscle stiffness, joint pain, and inflammation, making it particularly beneficial for conditions like arthritis, sciatica, and muscle strains. The warmth and properties of the poultices help to detoxify the body, increase circulation, and alleviate discomfort, promoting relaxation and healing in the affected areas.

Utsaadanam

Utsaadanam is one variation of Udvartanam. In Utsaadanam the powdered medicines are mixed with liquid medicines like buttermilk, dhaanyaamlam or leaf juices depending on the condition. This is used for massaging all over the body. It is done in Pratiloma (against the normal direction of the movement of Vaayu) direction, to scrape off unwanted Medas (fat) from the body. This treatment is explained in daily routines, for removing the oil from the body after abhyanga.

Vasti

Vasti is one of the Pancakarma which involves the administration of medicated liquids, oils, or decoctions into the rectum. The treatment aims to balance the Vata, which is primarily governed by the large intestine. There are two main types of Vasti: Kashaaya Vasti (using medicated decoctions) and Taila Vasti (using medicated oils). Vasti is considered one of the most effective treatments for a wide range of conditions, including constipation, digestive disorders, joint pain, and lower back issues. It helps to eliminate minute toxins, strengthen the digestive system, and improve overall vitality.

Vamanam

Vamanam is the therapeutic procedure to induce vomiting in order to eliminate excess toxins and impurities from the body. It is one of the five Pancakarma, aimed at detoxifying and balancing the doshas, particularly Kapha, which is associated with mucus and toxins in the respiratory and digestive systems. During Vamanam, the patient is given a herbal concoction that induces vomiting. This procedure is commonly used for conditions like asthma, chronic cough, sinusitis, obesity, indigestion, and skin disorders caused by Kapha imbalance. Vamanam is a potent cleansing process, and it is typically performed under the supervision of an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Virecanam

Virecanam is a treatment that involves administration of medicated purgatives to induce a thorough cleansing of the digestive system. It is one of the five Pancakarma, primarily aimed at balancing the Pitta dosha. The treatment works by promoting the elimination of excess toxins and waste products from the organs through purging. Medicines (cuurna, kvaatha, sneha, lehya, etc.) are given to the patient, which stimulate the intestines and encourage the release of accumulated impurities. Virecanam is particularly effective for conditions such as digestive disorders, skin diseases, jaundice, acidity, constipation, and excess heat in the body, and is performed under the guidance of an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner.

Ziro Dhaara

The word "Zirodhara" comes from Zira (head) and Dhaara (flow). It is a type of Oleation therapy in which suitable taila is continuously poured as a stream on the forehead where the hair follicles begin, from a specific height. It is usually done to balance the Vaata and Pitta doshas, treat anxiety, insomnia, and neurological, psychological, and psychosomatic disorders.

Ziropicu

Ziropicu is a treatment in which a cotton pad soaked in warm medicated oil is placed on the crown of the head for a prescribed time. It is administered in most of the diseases of head, especially of the Vaataja type, which includes hair loss, premature greying of hair and psychological diseases.

Zirolepam

Zirolepam is a therapy where a thick herbal paste (usually ground in buttermilk) is applied to the scalp and covered with a plantain leaf or cloth. This treatment is especially beneficial for conditions related to the mind and nervous system, such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, migraines, hypertension, ADHD and scalp disorders. The cooling and nourishing herbs used in Zirolepam help calm the mind, enhance memory, and promote mental clarity. It is a deeply relaxing therapy that supports both mental and neurological health.

Zirovasti

Zirovasti is a classical therapy where warm medicated oil is retained on the head using a special cylindrical cap. The oil is pooled over the scalp for a specific duration (15 to 60 minutes per day), allowing it to deeply stimulate and nourish the nervous system. This treatment is especially effective for conditions like migraines, anxiety, insomnia, facial paralysis, dryness of the scalp and other diseases of the head. Zirovasti is known for its calming and grounding effects, promoting mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall nervous system health.