Panchakarma, an integral part of Ayurveda, is profound detoxification and rejuvenation therapy that aims to restore the body’s natural balance and wellbeing.
Panchakarma is deeply rooted in ancient texts like the Charaka Samhitha, which guide us in understanding the body’s intricate balance of doshas and the importance of maintaining the balance for optimal health.
“Yadha loke yadha dehe tadha dravyeshu karmani
Thada dosha dathu moolam sruthva shastre yathoktam” (Charaka Samhitha Suthra Sthana 26:12)
This verse reminds us that just as in the world and the body, everything has a cause, so do imbalance in the doshas and dhatus(tissues) have their root cause. Panchakarma aims to eliminate these imbalances and restore harmony of the body.
The word originated from Sanskrit language, where “Pancha” means “five” and “Karma” means “action/procedures”.
Panchakarma involves a series of treatment procedures designed to cleanse the toxins of the body(ama) and restore doshic balance.(Vatha, Pitha and Kapha).
1.NASYA (Nasal Administration)
The term Nasya denotes ‘being in the nose’ or ‘belonging to nose’.
It is the administration of herbal oils, powders or paste through nasal route especially to eliminate the accumulated Kapha and thereby cleansing and rejuvenating head and neck region.
It is beneficial for treating sinusitis, migraine, facial palsy, hair problems etc. “Urdwajatru vikareshu viseshath nasyam ishyathe”
2. VAMANA (Therapeutic emesis)
This is the controlled process of inducing vomiting through oral medications to eliminate the excess Kapha dosha from the upper respiratory tract and stomach.
It helps in treating bronchitis, asthma, allergies etc.
3. VIRECHANA (Purgation Therapy)
Virechana involves the use of herbal laxatives to eliminate the excess Pitha dosha from the lower gastrointestinal tract.
It is useful in treating digestive issues, liver conditions like jaundice, skin disorders etc.
4. BASTHI (Enema Therapy)
Basthi is considered as the most important of all Panchakarma treatments. It involves the introduction of herbal decoctions and oils into the colon to remove accumulated toxins and balance the Vatha dosha.
Basthi is effective in treating chronic constipation, backache, neurological disorders etc.
5. Rakthamokshana (Blood Letting)
This involves the removal of small amounts of blood to eliminate toxins and improve circulation.
Some of the common methods used for bloodletting are Leech Therapy, Venesection and Cupping.
It is mainly used for treating skin conditions and joint disorders.
Panchakarmabhir yukthanam prajayathe phalodhayah Sa vaidyaka parikshartham vidhivath kuruthe dravam” (Charaka Samhitha Su.26:13) This verse highlights the effectiveness of Panchakarma when performed correctly by an Ayurvedic Physician. It emphasizes the importance of following the prescribed methods for optimal result. At Rockholm, we offer a serene and nurturing environment for your Panchakarma