Spa Therapies Of India
Panchakarma (Internal Detoxification):
This common Ayurvedic regime is also the most intense, and is not suitable for those suffering from anaemia or weakness, pregnant women, or the very young and very old. The full detoxification therapy has several steps and maybe given individually or as a combination of treatments depending on a person’s dosha and needs. Panchakarma involves the removal of toxins at the deepest internal levels. It helps dislodge and flush the body of its toxins using the organs of elimination that the body uses naturally to cleanse itself.
1. Vamana (Emetic vomitting): The rishis believed that it was beneficial to consume certain potions to induce vomitting. Vamana gets rid of excess kapha, and is recommended for treating bronchitis, and for throat, chest and heart problems.
2. Virechana (Gentle purging): A herb tea, which acts as a safe and mild laxative, is consumed to help flush out any elements that may be clogging up the digestive track. Virechana cleanses the pitta, and is recommended for the treatment of conditions such as skin diseases, fevers, intestinal worms and irritable bowel syndrome.
3. Vasti (Enema): Vasti is recommended for treating disorders arising from an imbalance of vata. Anuvasana vasti (oily enemas) are used to treat skin dryness and digestive imbalance, while asthapana vasti (decoction enemas) are used to treat nervous problems and fatigue.
4. Nasya (Nasal Scenting): Nasal drops are applied to clear the nasal passages and help alleviate kapha -oriented problems, such as headaches, allergies and nasal congestion. A few drops of medicated oil are introduced into nose, after which the mucous membrane is gently massaged.
5. Raktamokshana (Blood-letting): Raktamokshana is used for pitta diseases, such as skin problems, boils and abscesses, and is carried out using surgical instruments or leeches.
6. Shirodhara (Heavenly Compress): Shirodhara, sometimes referred to as the ‘massage of the third eye’, is considered as one of the most powerful Ayurvedic treatments available. A steady stream of medicated oil is directed on the forehead in a unique therapy designed to relieve mental tensions and provide a calm state of mind. The regular rhythm has a restorative effect on the senses.
7. Herbal Medicine (Samana): Herbal medicine is used to correct imbalances in the doshas. They usually come in liquid form or as dried herbs, although powders or tablets are now available. Herbal remedies are prescribed individually to suit your constitution, and have the effect of increasing or decreasing the levels of doshas. This basil-leaf tea, a common home remedy in India, is recommended for easing coughs and sore throats.
Basil-Leaf Tea:
Ingredients: 7 basil leaves; 1 clove; 1 1/2 tsp ginger juice;
Steep the ingredients in hot water for a minute, and drink while hot.
