Know More about Panchakarma in Ayurveda
Panchakarma
Panchakarma - A Science of Biopurification
Ayurveda the holistic science of life dates back its origin to the time period Before Christ and it has flourished through the ages. Clinical application of the science of Ayurveda can be understood on the basis of Ashtanga Ayurveda. Even though not explained as a separate entity, Panchakarma the sophisticated treatment protocol is an inevitable constituent of the entire Ashtanga Ayurveda.
Panchakarma has multifaceted action which includes detoxification of the body and mind as well as bringing balance and wellbeing by strengthening the immune system. It can be administered both in healthy individuals as a Ritucharya procedure and in diseased as a treatment modality.
The doctrine of Ayurveda states that undigested food materials release toxins into the body which is denoted by the term ‘Ama.’ The root cause of all diseases is impaired digestive capacity which is considered as the prime culprit in the formation of Ama. Therefore while planning the treatment , the physician should concentrate on correcting the agni as well as removing toxins from the body. In the present scenario, due to unhealthy food habits and life style, the incidence rate of diseases are increasing at a very fast pace.
Panchakarma therapies help to remove the Ama and restore the normal functioning of Agni in the body. When the digestive capacity increases, it in turn reinstates the body’s innate ability to heal by itself thereby maintaining the equilibrium between Dosha-Dhatu-Mala.
What are the Methods of Biopurification in Panchakarma ?
The term Panchakarma implies five therapeutic procedures. They are :
Vamana- Vomiting/Emesis
When there is increased Kapha dosha in the body, exhibited as blockage in the various body channels due to increased secretion with symptoms like respiratory disorders, skin diseases with itching and oozing, fibroids, certain psychiatric disorders etc., vamana is the first line of choice. By eliminating the aggravated Kapha out of the body, it helps to enhance digestive power, imparts clarity to sense organs, mind, intellect and complexion, and promotes strength, nourishment, immunity and fertility.
Virechana – therapeutic purgation
After thorough assessment and examination of the patient, the purgatives medicines are administered which eliminates the aggravated pitta dosha through the anal route. The treatment aims at removing the accumulated toxins in the Gastro intestinal tract mainly liver and gall bladder. It is an effective treatment modality for gastritis, liver disorders, skin disorders, gynaecological issues etc.
Niruha Basti (Decoction enema) & Anuvasana Basti (Oil enema)
Basti or the medicated enema therapy primarily aims at controlling the aggravated vata dosha which is the main etiological factor in the manifestation of diseases. Basti is administered in two methods- decoction enema and oil enema. Acharyas consider Basti to be equal to half of all the treatments. Even though its direct effect is on the colon, Basti is a highly specialised procedure which has its impact over the entire body from head to toe. It expels the vitiated doshas as well as nourishes the body.
Nasya- Errhine therapy
Nasya or the administration of medicine through the nostrils has its direct impact over the Central Nervous System. The overall health of an individual is dependent to a great extent on the health status of our Respiratory system. Continuous exposure to the pollutants surrounding us can clog our respiratory tract as well as para nasal sinuses. Nasya cleanses the respiratory passage and thereby helps in maintaining the homeostasis of the body. It is also an effective treatment for all the diseases present above the clavicle or collar bone.
What are the Benefits of Panchakarma therapy ?
- Maintains equilibrium of the body- Dosha-Dhatu-Mala
- Bio purification and rejuvenation of the body and mind
- Improves digestion and eating habits
- Provides good sleep
- Helps in maintaining a healthy physique
- Restores the vitality of the body by strengthening the immune system ∙ Slows down the aging process
Even though the term Panchakarma denotes five therapeutic procedures, each procedure has distinct Purva, Pradhana and Paschat Karma which includes a wide range of treatment modalities. The planning of Panchakarma treatment is individualistic- based on their needs and requirements and is planned after proper assessment of various factors like physical and mental constitution, aggravated factors, season and place, likes and dislikes of the patient, digestive capacity, strength, age etc.
Here at MVR Ayurveda Hospital, we provide customised Panchakarma treatments to the health seekers for preservation of health as well as prevention and treatment of diseases.