Panchakarma Procedures

Ayurvedic Palliative Care

Ayurvedic Palliative Care is the process of balancing the doshas in the body through natural self-care practices. This includes Ayurvedic dietary regimens, fasting, exercise, etc. to provide light assistance to the wellness process, specifically related to the individual’s needs.

Among the therapies considered during a wellness consultation, these include:

Ahara – Dietary Guidelines
An Ayurvedic proverb is “When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use; when the diet is correct, medicine is of no need”. Food therapy in Ayurveda includes specific dietary recommendations made by an Ayurvedic expert during a consultation session, which better enables a person to live in accordance to one’s intended dosha constitution. Dietary recommendations will take into account the person’s body type, present health conditions, seasonal and other factors.
Vihara – Lifestyle Management
Through specific lifestyle recommendations made by an Ayurvedic expert during a consultation session, a person learns how to live in accordance with their doshic patterns, and the changing times of day and seasons. In Sanskrit, this is referred to as Vihara Chikitsa. This includes:
· Daily Self-Care practices (Dinacharya)
· Seasonal Self-Care practices (Ritucharya)
Herbal SupplementationEach herbal supplement possesses unique properties, gunas (characteristics) and karmas (actions), which can have a beneficial effect on the body. Furthermore, each substance contains rasa (taste), virya (potency), vipaka (post-digestive effect), and prabhava (additional medicinal effects). During consultations, an Ayurvedic expert will recommend any herbal supplement to the individual, specifically appropriate for the person’s wellness needs, and constitution.
Ayurvedic Yoga TherapyYoga is derived from the Sanskrit root “Yuj”, which means to unite. Etymologically, it is related to the English word “yoke”. Yoga, according to the Great Indian Sage Patanjali is the systemic stilling of the alternating waves of consciousness. When one does this, one is able to connect to a deep sense of peace and stillness, where the waves of consciousness do not distort our perceptions of truth and reality.
There is an eightfold path of Yoga outlined by Patanjali, which consists of moral observances and practicing restraint, right posture (known as asana), proper breathing and life force control, meditation, and its successive states of concentration, expansion, and perception.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, a practitioner sees these means as therapeutic tools, which can benefit a person, based on their present wellness state, and constitution. With the correct yogic practices and careful considerations in the accordance of the doshas, a person can quickly unlock deeper states of mental and spiritual peace, rejuvenation, and well-being.
ShodanaChikitsa (Purification Therapy) When the doshas live in an inharmonious state over a prolonged period, wellness concerns may arise in the individual. This requires a more direct approach in restoring them to their intended state. These include Purvakarma, Pradhankarma, Paschatkarma, and Rasayana.

The Panchakarma Procedures

Panchakarma was developed thousands of years ago by the ancient healing masters of India. In Sanskrit, panchakarma means “the five actions” (pancha=five and karma=action), referring to the five different cleansing and rejuvenating procedures described in the classic ayurvedic textbooks.

Panchakarma follows these steps:

Step One: Preparatory Procedures (Purvakarma)

Before the actual operation of purification begins, there is a need to prepare the body in prescribed methods to encourage the release of toxins. The two procedures are Snehana(oleation)and Swedana(sudation).

Optimizing Metabolic Function (Agni Deepana / Pachana): Honoring the Agni, or digestive power of the GI tract. Digestion of food is at the core of wellness in Ayurveda. These therapies help kindle the digestive power and reduce the unwanted wastes of the body. They perform regulation of overall metabolic function.

Snehan (includes external as well as internal oleation):
Lubricates the tissues and soften the toxins in the body, preparing for deeper purification. These include:

Internal oleation: Ghee processed with herbs is consumed, which lubricates the GI tract, internal organs, and the whole body.
External oleation: Includes the following therapies:
Abhyanga – Oil Massage
Shirodhara – Pouring of oil on forehead, as well as Takradhara which uses herbal buttermilk
Shiropichu – Oil Pack Therapy
Swedana – Sweat and heat therapy
UpanahaSwedana – Herbal Bolus Massage
BalukaSwedana – Dry Sand Bolus Massage

Snehana - Abhyanga is also known as Ayurvedic Oil Massage. In this therapy, massage with herbal oil, appropriate for a person’s doshic state rejuvenates, softens and strengthens the skin, providing deep nourishment to the tissues. It helps to strength and resilience to the body and limbs, provides vigor to the dhatus (tissues) of the body, increases circulation and pacifies the doshas.

Types of Abhyanga

There are several types of abhyanga, based on the location being addressed:

Full body abhyanga (sarvanga abhyanga)
Foot Massage (pada abhyanga)
Head Massage (Shiro abhyanga)
Back Massage (Kati abhyanga)

The primary aim of Ayurvedic massage is to achieve the balance of energies inside the body, and also to act as a Purvakarma (preparation) in Panchakarma.

Indications for Abhyanga:

Rejuvenation
For relaxation
Vata related disorders (80 types)
General weakness
Disorders of joints
Diseases of muscles
Disorders of the nervous system
Gynecological problems
Disorders of the cardiovascular system
Psychological problems
Muscular-skeletal problems

Sweden(Sudation): Swedana is sudation or sweating therapy and is given every day immediately following the Snehana. Specific herbal steam and warm oil therapies are used to heat the body. This process helps open the body’s circulation channels (srotas) and allows toxins to flow more easily from the tissues to the GI tract for elimination. Swedana also relaxes the body, releasing tension and allowing impurities to be eliminated through the sweat glands.

Swedana: (sometimes called BashpaSweda or Drava Sweda) is an Ayurvedic herbal steam treatment, where the client sits within a steam chamber for a period until sweat is induced. Through perspiration, the bodily channels are naturally dilated, and any stagnation within the body is liquified. Hence, Swedana is an effective adjunct to Ayurvedic massage and promotes detoxification, and the natural heat also increases metabolic function.

Benefits:

Swedana is considered detoxifying, increases circulation, reduces inflammation

Promotes good skin health
Improves metabolic function
Assists with weight reduction
Relieves stress
Eases stiff and sore muscles

Indications:

Sciatica
Asthma, cough, and breathing issues
Arthritis, Osteoarthritis
Neurological Dysfunction
Backache and muscle pains
Overweight

Step Two: Elimination Procedures

Pradhanakarma: Main Purification measures of Panchakarma

Vamana:

Emesis Therapy When there is congestion in the lungs causing repeated attacks of bronchitis, colds, cough or asthma, the Ayurvedic treatment is therapeutic vomiting - Vamana, to eliminate the Kapha which is causing the excess mucus.
Vamana is one of the five classical panchakarma therapies of Ayurveda. Vamana means therapeutic vomiting which is a medicated emesis. This treatment is done for the aggravated Kapha dosha, which dislodges toxins, mainly from the lungs, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. Ayurveda believes that different seasons have a great influence in the aggravation of doshas, ex: Kapha in Hemant (spring season), pitta in Sharada (winter) season and Vata in greeshma (summers) season. Hence one can adopt Vamana therapy in Spring i.ehemant season as a preventive therapy in order to prevent disorders related to Kapha.

Benefits:

Lightness in the chest is often experienced after undergoing Vamana therapy.
Mental clarity promotes a good voice and a good appetite.
In ancient days Vamana was said to be given to one, after consumption of poison or food poisoning which is today followed by a stomach wash in modern science.
After Vamana, the sinuses are cleared which in turn provides relief from congestion, wheezing, and breathlessness.
It is a highly efficient treatment in Asthma and skin related problems like psoriasis.
Reduction in weight and cholesterol & triglycerides.

Indications:

Upper respiratory tract infections
Sinusitis
Asthma
Metabolic disorders like Diabetes
Skin allergy, eczema, psoriasis
Erysipelas (cellulite)
Obesity
Urticarial rashes

Virechana:

Purgation Therapy When excess bile, Pitta, is secreted and accumulated in the gall bladder, liver, and small intestine, it tends to result in rashes, skin inflammation, acne, chronic attacks of fever, vomiting, nausea, and jaundice. Ayurvedic literature suggests in these conditions the administration of therapeutic purgation or a therapeutic laxative.
Virechana is one of the five therapeutic procedures of panchakarma. It is a medicated purgation therapy that cleanses Pitta-related disorders (for example, liver, GIT disorders, gout, etc). It pacifies the pitta dosha and thus its related disorders.

Benefits:

Detoxification of the toxins from the body
Detoxify the toxins from the liver and hence regulates proper metabolism
Beneficial in skin disorders, urticarial rashes, allergies
In the case of Gout, rheumatism, purgation is classically said to be the best
Relieves gastrointestinal disorders

Indications:

Gout
Obesity
Chronic asthma
Tumor growth
Jaundice
Liver and spleen disorders
Eczema, psoriasis, acne
Allergies

Nasya:

Nasal Administration The nose is the doorway to the brain and is also the doorway to consciousness. The nasal administration of medication is called Nasya. An excess of bodily humors accumulated in the sinus, throat, nose or head areas is eliminated by means of the nearest possible opening, the nose.
This stimulates the nervous system, cranial nerves and also maintains functions of endocrine glands. It also prevents many ENT problems such as Tonsillitis, Sinusitis, and Pharyngitis. This is not only a curative procedure for ailments but also a preventive treatment for diseases of the head region. Indications: Trigeminal Neuralgia, Bell's palsy, Sinusitis, Migraine, Nasal Allergies, Premature graying of hair, falling of hairs, Insomnia, facial paralysis, epilepsy, toothache.
Prana or the life force that circulates through us is inexorably linked to the body and mind, and the nose is the doorway that facilitates breath that governs prana. Ayurveda states that the release of any blockages of excess bodily humors within the sinuses, nasal passageway, throat and head is paramount in the optimal functioning of the breath. Nasya is one of the five classical panchakarmas that facilitates this release.

Procedure:

There are several classical types of Nasya, depending primarily on the concerns being addressed. Commonly, Nasya is performed with a combination of head, face, and neck massage, then herbal steam. Herbal oil, ghee or powder is applied to the nasal region, then massaged, and followed by additional steam. The procedure usually lasts 45 minutes.

Indications:

Stress
Emotional imbalances
Stiffness in the neck & shoulders
Dryness of the nose
Sinus congestion
Hoarseness
Migraines
Headache
Convulsions
Stiffness in the head, neck, teeth and jaw and facial paralysis.

Basti:

Medicated Enema Therapy Vata's predominant site is the colon. Ayurvedic Basti involves the introduction into the rectum of herbal preparations of sesame oil, and certain herbal preparations in a liquid medium. Basti is the most effective treatment of Vata disorders, although many enemas over a prescribed period of time are usually required. It relieves constipation, distention, chronic fever, cold, sexual disorders, kidney stones, heart pain, backache, sciatica and other pains in the joints. Many other Vata disorders such as arthritis, rheumatism, gout, muscle spasms, and headaches may also be treated with Basti. Basti therapy is divided in two main types - Anuvasana Basti - medicated oil enemas and Niruhana Basti - medicated enema of decoctions and medicated oils.
Vata’s predominant site is situated in the colon. Ayurvedic Basti involves the introduction via the rectum of herbal substances like oils and decoctions. Basti is the most effective treatment of Vata-related disorders, although many enemas over a prescribed period of time are usually required. This is one of the five classical forms of panchakarma.

Mode of action:

Vata is a very active principle in pathogenesis. If we can control vatausingbasti, we have gone a long way in going to the root cause of the vast majority of diseases. Vata is the main etiological factor in the manifestation of diseases. It is the motive force behind the elimination and retention of feces, urine, bile, and other excreta. Vata is mainly located in the large intestine, but bone tissue (asthi dhatu) is also a site for Vata. Hence the medication administered rectally effects not only asthi dhatu, but the whole body, head to toe. The mucus membrane of the colon is related to the outer covering of the bones (peritoneum), which nourishes the bones. Therefore, any medication given rectally goes into the deeper tissues, like bones, and corrects Vata disorders.

Benefits:

It relieves constipation, distension, chronic fever, cold, sexual disorders, kidney stones, heart pain, backache, sciatica and other pains in the joints. Many other Vata disorders such as arthritis, rheumatism, gout, muscle spasms and headaches may also be treated with Basti

Indications:

Constipation
Low backache
Inflammatory disorders like Gout, rheumatism
Neurological disorders like sciatica
Nervous disorders like Vata headache
Obesity
Emaciation
Paralysis
Colitis
IBS
Sexual weakness, infertility

Paschatkarma:

After cleansing the doshas from the body, regimen for diet is given to follow the panchakarma procedures, to restore your digestive fire.

Rasayana Therapy

After the panchakarma process is completed, the body is given toned, to gain more strength and fully rejuvenate the bodily tissues.

Step Three: Rejuvenation

Samsarjana Karma (Post Procedural Dietic Regimen)

For restoration of Agni i.e. Bio-fire (digestive functions) by means of advocating specific dietetic regimen is known is Samsarjanakarma. It includes Depana and Pachana that is crucial follow-up therapies include diet, medication, and lifestyle. The objective ofSamsarjankarma is to restore digestive power through the specific dietary schedule. After Samsarjankarma not only appetite increases but also absorptive and assimilatory functions of G.I. tract is improved

RASAYAN:

The final step of panchakarma is rasayana, a term that means “that which is nourishing.” Once the toxins have been released, this is a critical time to begin replenishing the body with natural foods and herbs, revitalizing massage treatments, and healing practices such as meditation and yoga. It is a special form of tonification therapy. This is best done after the panchakarma. Special herbs are used to tone up the various systems of the body. The herbs are selected according to PRAKRITI and Disease. Ayurvedic physicians recommend getting regular panchakarma treatments to detoxify and nourish your entire mind-body system. In just a few days, you will feel renewed as you release whatever is no longer serving you and open yourself to vibrant health.

Additional Supporting Panchakarma Therapies

Shirodhara

Shirodhara – Pouring of oil on the forehead, as well as Takradhara which uses herbal buttermilk

Shirodhara is derived from two words in Sanskrit: Shiro, meaning head, and dhara, meaning to flow. It consists of continuous pouring on the forehead. This therapy is popular and widely-known in inducing deeper states of relaxation to the individual. The body, while in a relaxed state, is quickly able to rejuvenate itself.
It is also known as the third eye treatment of lord Shiva, herbal oil, medicated milk or herbal decoction is poured in gently and steadily over the forehead in a continuous stream using a special rhythmic swaying movement or in an oscillatory movement which gives you deep mental relaxation. Shirodhara is a purifying and rejuvenating therapy designed to eliminate toxins and mental exhaustion as well as relieve stress and any ill effects on the central nervous system. Shirodhara is traditionally used for a wide array of wellness concerns such as (but not limited to) insomnia, all kinds of headaches and migraines, adrenal fatigue, metabolic dysfunction, and burnout.
This is a subtype of Murdhataila which means keeping or retaining the medicated oil on the head region. The types of Murdhataila other than Shirodhara are Shiro Abhyanga (Massage), Pichu (placing of soaked linen) and Shiro Basti (retention of oil on head region). Various herbal oils are used according to various clinical conditions.

Procedure:

Shirodhara is a unique form of ancient therapy of pouring oil on the forehead from a specific height and for a specific period continuously and uniformly in a rhythm allowing the oil to run through the scalp and into the hair.
Person is made lie in a supine position on dhara table. Eyes and ears are covered with cotton in order to protect it from the overflow of the decoction or oil. Slowly the dhara pot oscillates and the oil is made to flow on the head in a rhythmic manner which invigorates your mind and body leading to a deep tranquil effect. The procedure is done for at least 45 min.

Shirodhara Benefits:

This results in a fantastic sense of deep relaxation and inner peace. It works on the cerebral system, helps in relaxing the nervous system and balancing the Prana Vayu around the head. It improves the function of five senses, helps in insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, hair loss, fatigue, imbalance of Vata and makes one calm and fresh.

Indications:

Vata-related disorders
Insomnia
Epilepsy
Stress
Neurological disorders
Anxiety
Depression
Hypertension

Ksheerdhara

Medicated milk processed with herbs is poured over the forehead with a continuous flow.

Indication

it is useful for people suffering from Migraine, sleeplessness, burning sensation of the body, chronic fever, stress, tension, high B.P.

Takradhara

Pouring of medicated buttermilk over the forehead as a continuous stream. This treatment has a cooling effect on the mind and the body.
Indication -It is very useful for people having burning sensation in palm & sole, Migraine headaches, giddiness, fatigue, graying of hair, dandruff.

Shiropichu – Oil Pack Therapy

Shiropichu is a word comprising of two terms, Shiro meaning head, Pichu meaning a swab or sterile cotton pad or a sterile cloth dipped in medicated herbal oils. Pichu is one of the treatments in Ayurveda used for neuropathic conditions involving the head region and disorders of the spine. In this treatment procedure, a thick cotton pad or sterile cloth dipped in ample amounts of lukewarm medicated oils or ghrita is applied on the top of the head (anterior fontanelle) for a specific time interval. The swab is replaced periodically to maintain the warm temperature. It is used in different cases but when used in the head region, it is termed Shiropichu.

Procedure:

The Pichu soaked with oil is squeezed to remove excess oil. The Pichu is now kept on the crown of the head. The pad is now wrapped with another thin pad. Tying the bandage cloth – Now the sterile bandage cloth is tied around the Pichu in such a way that the bandage cloth takes 3-4 windings starting from the crown of the head and going behind the left ear, down the chin and upwards and behind the right ear and over the crown once again. The free ends of the bandage cloth are tied and knotted behind the right ear. Any excess oil dripping around the head should be wiped off using sterile cloths or sterile cotton pads.

Benefits:

Absorption of substances through the skin depends on a number of factors, the most important of which are concentration, duration of contact, the solubility of medication, and physical condition of the skin and part of the body exposed. In Shiropichu, oil form is used which has good dense concentration with longer duration of contact. Also, the skin over the scalp is thin as compared to other parts of the body and absorption is faster and more from the scalp. a local application like ointment passes through the stratum corneum into the blood vessel and reaches the appropriate organ. Similarly, the oil on the forehead can be absorbed and easily reaches the brain cortex. Shiropichu improves circulation thereby correcting the brain circulation which is very important in stress & headache.

Indications:

Burning sensation in the scalp
Hair fall, split hair and premature greying of hair
Headache and migraine
Sleep disorders
Improves memory
Stiffness in neck
Eyestrain
Stress & Burnout
Neurological disorders like paralysis and facial palsy

Shirobasti – Head Treatment

This is a procedure in which a belt is fastened around the head covering a portion of the forehead so that a well like formation takes place over the head. This well is then filled with oil and kept for some time. The oil poured into the head can remain there for a certain period and this procedure of murdhataila is known as shirobasti.

Indications:

Insomnia
Cataracts
Sleeplessness
Paralysis
Facial paralysis
Earache
Deafness
Cranial nerve disorders
Premature graying of the hair

AkshiTarpana – Eye Treatment

Akshi means eye and Tarpana means giving strength to the eyes. The medicated ghee is poured over the eyelids in an enclosure built around the eye out of wheat flour. It is said to be an excellent treatment to improve vision and clarity of the mind.

Procedure:

This treatment aims to provide optimum rejuvenation to the eyes. The dough of Urad (black gram) is put around the eyeball in such a way that a dam like an appearance is seen. Then herbal healing ghee (clarified butter) is put in this groove to lubricate the eye and surrounding areas which will be kept warm for 15-20 minutes. This provides improved vision with beautiful eyes and strengthening of eye tissues.

Benefits:

Cleanses eyes by removing dust from the cornea.
Moisturizes the dry eye.
Improvises blurred vision.
Reduces the burning of eyes.
Aids in the improvement of eye disturbances and thus improves the clarity of the mind.

Indications:

Dry eyes syndrome
Burning in the eyes
Vata diseases in the eyes
Conjunctivitis
Pain in the eyes
Watering eye
Night blindness
Myopia
Reduces Dark circles if regularly done

Kati Basti, Janu Basti, Greeva Basti – Lower back / Knee / Cervical Area Treatment

Basti stands for retaining something inside, in this case mainly medicated oil. The healing properties of herbal oils used for this basti deeply clean and fortify the blood, build strong muscle and connective tissues and lubricate the joints. Katibasti, Greevabasti, and Janubasti are herbal oil treatments which consist of pooling warm herbal oil or ghee in a dough ring, on a specific region of the body. Oil penetrates the skin, softens the tissues and eases inflammation. This alleviates pain and quickly rejuvenates the affected area.

These treatments include (Depending on the location of the are being treated):

Katibasti

For lower back pain and other spine problems. This is a form of giving fomentation to a localized areas, by applying and retaining heated herbal oil to the sacral or lumbar region. This special technique is aimed at providing relief by bathing the lower back. A frame of black gram paste is made around the sacral region. Warm medicated oil is poured into this frame. This warm oil heats the sacral region followed by massage done locally to the region.
Duration of treatment: 30-40 minutes

Benefits:

Increases the circulation in the the region, as the herbal oil gets deeply absorbed into the skin, and both nourishes and strengthens the muscles and nerves.
Pacifies one of the primary sites of Vata, relieving pain, soreness, and tension and restoring flexibility.
Relieves chronic lower backaches and painful muscle spasms, stiffness, and degenerative problems.

Indications:

The painful low back region
Lumbar spondylosis
Disc prolapses
Ankylosing spondylosis
Neurological disorders
Degenerative spine changes
Compressed disc
Osteoporosis
Sciatica

Greevabasti

For lower neck pain and other cervical disorders. The person undergoing Greeva Basti is made to lie face down on the massage table. The dough is prepared out of black gram flour or whole wheat flour. It is then made into a small ring of four to five inches in diameter which is placed over the neck to cover all the vertebrae of the neck and 2-3 vertebrae of the thoracic region. After it is glued with some water to make it leakproof, lukewarm medicated oil or the decoction of herbs is slowly poured into it. When this cools down it is squeezed out and replaced with warmer liquid. At the end of the procedure, the dough is removed; a gentle massage is given over the area. The person is made to take rest for a while.
Duration of treatment: 30 minutes

Benefits:

Relieves the burden of stress and congestion in nerves, bones, and muscles of the neck and shoulders and thus relaxing and rejuvenating them.
It improves flexibility and brings smooth movement.
Improves circulation around the neck and shoulder region.
Relieves pain and stiffness.

Indications:

Cervical spondylosis
Cervical disc lesion
Vertigo
Tingling, numbness of hands
Compression fractures
Chronic pain in neck region
Frozen shoulder

Janubasti

For knee and joint pain and other problems. This procedure is done in order to strengthen the knee architecture (i.e muscles, joints) and improvise the functions of the knee joint, thereby preventing it from further degenerative changes.
The patient is made to sit in a comfortable position with both legs extended. The mold is fixed on one or both knees made with the help of the kneaded black gram dough of suitable height. Medicated oil of suitable temperature is poured inside the prepared wall and retained for about 30-40 minutes. The warmth of the oil is maintained throughout the procedure. At the end of the procedure, the dough is removed, a gentle massage is given over the area. The person is made to take rest for a while.

Benefits:

Relief from knee pain.
Improvement in the movement of knee joints.
Reduction in the swelling.
Increased weight-bearing capacity.

Indications:

Osteoarthritis
Subluxation of knee joint
Rheumatism
Knee pain
Ligament tear

Elakizhi

The bolus massage with medicinal leaves is called Elakizhi. This is one of the classical traditional massages of Ayurveda.

Indications:

Relieving body pain and stiffness
Improving muscle strength
Arthritis
Sciatica
Back pain
Lumbar spondylosis
Numbness of leg
Improves the blood circulation
Improves the skin complexion and rejuvenates the body

Navarakizhi (ShastiShalikPinda Swedana)

The bolus massage done with medicated rice is called Navarakizhi. It is a very popular therapy for body nourishment and rejuvenation. In this a special type of rice called ‘Navara’ is used which is cooked in Bala & Dashmoola root decoction and cow’s milk. The whole body is anointed with suitable oils and then massaged with this bolus of medicated rice. This massage can also be taken by a healthy person for rejuvenation.

Indications:

Very effective in curing diseases of Nervous system (Chronic Vata Problems)
Chronic Rheumatism, Osteoarthritis
Gout
Emaciation
Slows down aging process
Relaxes the body and gives sound sleep
Improves blood circulation and detoxifies the body

Shashti ShalikPindaSwedana – Bolus Massage and Sweat Therapy

PindaSweda is a unique treatment that combines massage and sweat therapy. Using the standard heat and oil process at the core of the majority of Ayurvedic massage treatments, PindaSweda also uses ‘rice puddings’ or medicinal rice cooked with herbs and bundled into soft cotton to create heat-holding boluses. This treatment is usually recommended for the muscular dystrophy, joint pains and muscles commonly associated with arthritic conditions, back pain and muscle stiffness. It can also be used to delay the ageing process, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, muscle weakness and paralysis.

Procedure:

The therapist will massage warm medicinal oil over the entire body before applying the medicated herbal rice boluses to specific areas using varied pressure to remove stiffness and clear the bodily channels. After the boluses have been used, the contents are removed from the bundle and massaged into the skin before being removed.

Benefits:

This treatment helps promote the elimination of toxins while enhancing circulation and blood flow.

Indications:

Muscular dystrophy
Joint pains
Back pain
Stress and insomnia
Dry skin
Muscle stiffness

Podikizhi (Patra PotliPinda Swedana)

The bolus massage done with powdered roots of various herbs is called Podikizhi. Roots of various plants like Castor, Sandalwood, Sweet flag, Devdar, Ashwagandha and dry ginger, etc are heated with medicinal oils & are tied in cloth bags; and placed on the area to be treated. This is followed by specific massages, done using the fingers, the heel of the hand or palm. The pressure application varies according to the nature of ailment and the spot used.

Indications:

Arthritis, Paralysis
Body pain and numbness
Degenerative diseases
Neuro-muscular diseases

Patra PotliSwedana – Herbal Bolus Massage

Patra PotliSwedana consists of applying a bolus of herbs during massage. This helps relieve musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain, strengthens immunity, and increases blood circulation. Patra means medicinal leaves, and potli means bolus sweda-fomentation

Procedure:

Leaves of medicinal plants have properties of relieving pain, stiffness & swelling. These leaves in Ayurveda are said to contain Vata alleviating factors known as Vata hara. Such leaves are freshly collected and chopped into small pieces. Then it is fried in medicated oil adding turmeric, lemon in it.The mixture is filled in a piece of cotton cloth and a bolus is prepared out of it. On one side a pan is filled with little quantity of oil and kept on mild fire. The passive heating of the bolus is done and gently applied to the affected part of the body. In such a manner the procedure of patra-pindasweda is carried on.

Benefits:

Strengthens the back and spine.
Reduces pain and swelling.
Reduces stiffness and inflammation.
Increases the circulation and thus improves the functioning of the joints.

Indications:

Chronic Back pain.
Lumbar & Cervical spondylosis.
Arthritis
Sciatica
Muscular and soft tissue pain.
Sprains, cramps etc.

Pizchil (Sarvangdhara)

Pizchil or Sarvangdhara: It is a process in which Luke warm medicated oil is poured on the body in a peculiar rhythmic manner for a specific time. It is also called Oil bath. It is a Rejuvenation therapy for healthy person.

Indications:

Neuro Muscular degenerative diseases
Increases the immunity of the body
Improves complexion of the skin
Maintains good health
Relieves body pain and muscle spasm
Helps in healing fractures
Treats neuromuscular diseases
Rejuvenates the body

Udwartana (Herbal Powder Massage)

Udvartana is an Ayurvedic process of invigorating the whole body, through a herbal powder massage. It includes scrubbing of the whole body using an ubtan (paste) made out of the mixture of the different herbs and grains. It is typically performed in conditions of obesity and cellulite beneath the skin. It helps in reduction of excess fat and cellulite conditions by scrubbing and massaging the body in upward strokes, producing friction, which scrapes and liquefies the fat. Herb molecules are absorbed into the body through the skin pores and remove the sluggish lymphatic toxins. This technique not only detoxifies but also improves the blood circulation and establishes a rejuvenation effect in the body.

Procedure:

The whole body is invigorated by scrubbing with the paste (ubtan) prepared of dry herbal powder in an upward direction stroke in a particular manner for 45 minutes. This procedure contains certain strokes that help in the liquefaction of fat, thereby giving proper shape to the muscle tissue.

Benefits:

Reduces excess fat in the body.
Improves skin complexion.
Eliminates bad odor due to excessive sweating or other reasons.
Corrects the imbalance of doshas.
Vitalizes and rejuvenates the body.

Indications:

Obesity
Diabetes mellitus
Varicose veins
Oily skin, lack of complexion and blemishes.
Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy.

Mardan – Deep Tissue Massage

Mardana is the Sanskrit name given in Ayurveda for the deep tissue massage.
In the classical Ayurvedic texts, 108 Marma points (vital energy points) have been described and used in various massages to revitalize the body, mind and consciousness. In Mardan massage, marma points are massaged with the help of fingers, knuckles, forearms, elbows etc. to give the right kind of pressure needed to stimulate these points.

Benefits & Indications:

Muscular problems
Burnout & stress
Weight management
Rejuvenation of the body & mind

Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Massage)

Human Body is a wonderful gift of God. If a person has misused and abused Nature’s gift for a long time, massage can help him/her to restore the body to its normal condition of health, vitality, youth, stamina and awareness. Massage is very essential to keep one’s health and longevity. Abhyanga is an Ayurveda way of oil massage with Marma therapy. Marma are vital points of the body which contain Prana energy. Gentle pressure on Marma while doing massage provides Prana energy to the body and mind which gives ultimate healing.

Ayurveda Face Massage

Massage adds glaze to the skin and increases Beauty. The physical appearance of the body is enhanced to a great extent with Massage. The complexion and quality of the skin undergoes a transformation. Massage is very essential for being more youthful and minimizing the effects of old age.

Ayurveda Head Massage

Ayurvedic massage of the forehead improves the sight and power of concentration. Head Massage also increases the oxygen supply to the brain along with the circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid. Scalp Massage cures dryness, loss of hairs and premature baldness.

Ayurveda Foot Massage

The nerve endings of all the organs are present within the foot. During the Massage when the pressure points are given it increases the blood circulation to all the parts of the body. The ayurvedic foot massage has many benefits like it nourishes the skin, reduces stress and anxiety, activates our immune system, helps in detoxification and increases the energy levels.

Ayurveda Back Massage

The ayurvedic back massage has manifold benefits like it relieves back pain, neck strain, shoulder pain, relaxes the muscles, and improves the flexibility and blood circulation. It relieves stress, anxiety, fatigue and improves sleep. Low back pain problem among Indians is increasingly becoming very common due to demanding work and personal lifestyles

Ayurveda Full Body Massage

Ayurvedic Full body massage captures the benefits of all the massage and touches upon almost all parts of the body and provides complete relaxation.

Benefits of Ayurveda Massage

Stimulate and relax the body and the mind.
Soothes and enables the nerves to function properly.
Increases the circulation of blood and lymph so that waste materials are discarded from the body.
Improves complexion of the skin.
Aids body in using fat deposits
Cures diseases such as Paralysis and Polio.
Strengthens muscles and blood vessels.
Alleviates adhesions
Reduces swellings and Inflammations.
Facilitates the assimilation of nutrients in food
Aids cellular renewal and removes toxic wastes
Relaxes the tense muscles and loosens the stiff joints

Beauty Care:

Herbal cream is applied on face and neck through constant massage movements for 30 minutes. Later, gentle herbal steam is given, and different herbal face pack dissolved in rose water is gently applied on the area. This treatment is very good for the toning of face muscles, to induce relaxation and helps getting relief from acne problem

Nadi Swedana:
Nadi Swedana is usually done for localized conditions like Osteoarthritis, sprain, or to relieve some localized pain as in cervical spondylitis. Here fomentation is done with the vapors generated out of medicated decoction that is then applied to the affected area with the help of a rubber tube. Proper oleation of the affected part is done prior to Nadi Sweda.
Karna Poorna:

Oil bath for the ears Warm herbal oil (or medicated liquid) is poured into the ears followed by massage around the ears and jaw area. This helps in loosening wax and relieving jaw and neck tension, itching, earaches and headaches.

Indication:

Itching, dryness, ringing in the ears, earache, gum, teeth and jaw disorders

Kavala-Gandusha

Oral cleansing Gargling or retaining medicated oil or herbal preparations in the mouth for relieving dental and mouth problems. This therapy imparts a light and fresh feeling to the mouth and exerts a cleansing and strengthening action on the gums, teeth and voice. Rejuvenate freshens the breath, improves the sense of taste, and strengthens teeth and gums

Indication:

Nausea, anorexia, rhinitis, sore throat and oral cavity disorders, oral cancers

Pizhichil – Continuous Oil Pouring Treatment

Pizhichil involves the continuous pouring of lukewarm herbal oil over the body, simultaneously, for a specific period of time. This is an excellent treatment for strengthening and tonification, stress and burnout, and other nervine disorders. Pizhichil is also historically known as the treatment for aristocrats as it was done in the royal family in ancient days. The whole body is bathed in soothing streams of medicated oil by therapists. This creates both oleation as well as sudation effects on the body. It calms and relaxes the entire body.

Procedure:

Pizhichil is squeezing of medicated oil through a cloth dipped inside the oil on the whole body, massaging the body for at least 45 minutes.

Benefits:

Promotes relaxation to the body by relieving stress.
Improves the circulation and metabolism and thus restores health. It helps in rejuvenating the body.
It is beneficial in many ailments like arthritis, neurological and degenerative disorders as it induces diaphoresis (sweating).
Increases the skin lustre and complexion of the skin.
As it improves the circulation, it increases immunity and life span.

Indications:

Arthritis
Paralysis
Nervous weakness
Sexual weakness
Stress
Anxiety
Slows down the ageing process

Nasya Karma

Prana, or the life force that circulates through us, is inexorably linked to the body and mind, and the nose is the doorway that facilitates breath that governs prana. Ayurveda states that the release of any blockages of excess bodily humors within the sinuses, nasal passageway, throat and head is paramount in the optimal functioning of the breath. Nasya is one of the five classical panchakarmas that facilitates this release.

Procedure:

Indications:

Stress
Emotional imbalances
Stiffness in the neck & shoulders
Dryness of the nose
Sinus congestion
Hoarseness
Migraines
Headache
Convulsions
Stiffness in the head, neck, teeth and jaw and facial paralysis.

The Ayurvedic Approach to Stress Management, Burnout, and Rejuvenation

We are living in a society in which worries, stress and strain are too rich. Worries about security, economic difficulties, and emotions are becoming more common and will negatively impact health and longevity. The term “stress” is difficult to define and may mean different things to different people in different circumstances. When we are stressed, our bodies may show physical signs of tension. Sometimes irritation, anger, nervousness or sadness can be a clue you are feeling stressed. You may have difficulty concentrating or feel like you can’t stop worrying about something.
In the ancient Indian healing system of Ayurveda, stress reduction hinges on a complex understanding of each person. Since no two people handle setbacks the same way, everyone requires a different stress-relief strategy. According to Ayurveda, lack of ability to deal with stress is due to an imbalance of the three main mental functions, called dhi (learning), dhriti (retention), and smriti (long-term memory). Ayurveda & its therapies offer many recommendations for strengthening these mental functions, and thus gives the person more resilience to stress. When there is stress, there is an imbalance of Vata-Pitta-Kapha (doshas). Stress directly affects basic vital body tissue (Dhatus). The health of basic vital tissues can be maintained by taking steps to keep Vata-Pitta-Kapha in balance through proper nutrition, lifestyle and rejuvenation programs.

It is well accepted that stress is the greatest threat to the well being of people. Stress weakens the immune system. As the strength of the host diminishes, the ability of microorganisms to penetrate bodily defenses increases. Stress plays a role in the onset of just about every disease people face, from the common cold to heart disease. Too much stress can be quite harmful and can compromise our health physically, mentally, and emotionally. Ayurveda offers a beautiful perspective on stress management.
The ancient Ayurveda practice of massage with oil (called Abhyanga) calms the nervous system, lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues, and promotes healthy circulation throughout the body. Abhyanga is a profound practice of rejuvenation. In addition, the oil itself forms a protective sheath around the body that can help to buffer the nervous system against stress. Ayurveda helps a person come to a better understanding of themselves and their relationship to the world around them. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, Ayurveda helps people reduce stress. By reducing stress, each person can attain optimum health and peace of mind.
The treatment of Ayurveda, which also includes Panchakarma, basically indents to detoxify the body, reduce stress and enhance the immunity of the body. Ayurveda therapies work on both the physical and psychological levels to relax and ease pain, stiffness, soothing muscles, boost circulation and alleviate stress.

The Ayurvedic Approach to Pain Management

Millions of North Americans are reported to be suffering from chronic pain, a number larger than all the people suffering from diabetes & heart disease. For pain, we generally take painkillers, but this has led to a major cause of addiction and death by overdose.
We consume most of the prescription drugs called opioids—the strongest and most addictive pain pills. Evidence shows that long-term opioid drug use triggers a vicious cycle of continued pain and addiction.
Ayurveda suggests a different approach to pain relief. It begins by viewing pain as a mind-body experience. Ayurveda recognizes this power of the mind to relieve pain and strengthens this force through use of therapies. Ayurveda presents Panchakarma & pain-reducing techniques that are effective and non-addictive.
According to Ayurveda, Vata is the main dosha involved in pain. It is responsible for generating and spreading the pain. However, a specific fraction of Vata is responsible for pain in a specific region such as; generalized pain is caused by VyanaVata, headache – Prana and VyanaVata, abdominal pain – Samana and Apana Vata and chest pain – Vyana and Prana Vata.
According to Ayurveda, chronic pain is caused by doshic imbalances and is influenced by many factors like diet, digestion, accumulation of toxins, stress, exercise levels and daily routine. Ayurveda explains the origin of pain is due to vitiated Vatadosha, once vatadosha is treated efficiently the pain subsides automatically.

Gayatri Ayurveda contains a wide variety of time-tested Ayurveda recommendations to balance Vata. These include specific diets, herbs, cleansing programs. Ayurveda Expert will design a customized Individualized Programs program to address your chronic pain condition.

Ayurvedic pain management therapies are safe and natural ways that help in the management of different types of pain like muscle pain, musculoskeletal pain, bone-joint pain, sports injuries, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, myalgia, spondylosis, sciatica, low backache, muscle cramps, sprain, etc.

The Ayurvedic Approach to Weight Management

Obesity is characterized by excess or abnormal body fat that can impair your health. Obesity is an increasing problem all over the world as lifestyles change and fast food chains gain popularity. Obesity increases the risk of many diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, reflux disease, diabetes, tumors, and sleep apnea. One in four adults and one in 10 children in Canada are now living with excess weight.
Obesity is a complex illness caused by a number of different factors, including your environment, genes, emotional health, lack of sleep, medical problems or even some medications you may be on.
In Ayurveda, obesity is regarded as medoroga, a disorder of meda dhatu, which includes fat tissue and fat metabolism. According to Ayurveda, obesity begins with an imbalance of doshas (Vata, Pita, and Kapha) dominated by kapha, an imbalance of agni (digestive fire), an imbalance of the malas (waste products) or an imbalance of srotas (microcirculatory channels). This collection of imbalances then interferes with the formation of tissues or dhatus and leads to a tissue imbalance that we experience as excess weight.
In a balanced state, Kapha gives nourishment to these tissues through various microchannels. However, when it is aggravated, Kapha leads to the production of toxins in the body. These toxins are heavy and dense in nature and accumulate I n weaker channels of the body, causing their blockage. In the case of an obese person, toxins accumulate in MedovahiSrotas (fat channels), thereby leading to an increase in the production of fat tissue (Meda Dhatu). When the body produces more fat tissues, it causes an increase in weight. Overweight people have an excess of ama in their bodies. Ama is the toxins that build up in the body due to an unhealthy lifestyle and incomplete or inefficient digestion. Ama blocks the circulatory, lymph and other channels of the body. Ayurvedic treatment for obesity primarily aims at getting rid of ama.
According to Ayurveda, it is extremely difficult or perhaps impossible to lose weight in presence of ama,It is because of this reason that people fail to lose weight even when they limit their diet. So it is important to get rid of ama first and then work on losing weight.
At Gayatri Ayurveda, our first approach is the determination of the appropriate weight according to an individual’s body constitution. As executive weight problems are commonly related to sedentary or irregular lifestyle, unhealthy dietary habits and stress, this can be managed very effectively by adopting preventive measures and periodical administration of life-enhancing therapies to correct the doshic imbalance thereby favoring an optimum level of fat metabolism.

Ayurveda emphasizes that losing weight is not about starving or suppressing the appetite; it is about balancing your fat metabolism by rebalancing kapha. The therapies help in clearing the channels that are blocked with metabolic toxins and ensure a free flow of energy within the body so the doshas are in a balanced state. This will encourage an increase in fat metabolism along with the administration of treatments like Udwartana, Swedana, Basti helping the body to eliminate the metabolic toxins along with fat.

To break the cycle, the Ayurvedic expert at Sevayu determines the unique nature of the individual (Prakriti) and the nature of imbalance (Vikriti). The essence of recommendation is generally comes down to addressing a few core issues like strengthening digestion (balance agni), removing ama, improving dietary habits and adjusting inappropriate daily routines and lowering stress.

The Ayurvedic Approach to Pregnancy Care

Pregnancy care consists of prenatal (before birth) and postnatal (after birth) healthcare for expectant mothers. It involves therapies and training to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery for mom and baby. Ayurveda has always given importance to care the female at every phase of her life in respect of menstrual care, antenatal care and postnatal care.

Antenatal care is the systemic supervision of women during pregnancy. Its aim is to preserve the physiological aspect of pregnancy and labor. According to the Ayurvedic perspective, GarbhiniParicharya refers to antenatal care with recommendations of Aahara (specific dietary regimen), Vihara (normal daily activities and therapeutic procedure) & modifications in psychological behavior. Acharyas have outlined a monthly dietary regimen to meet an increase in caloric intake of pregnant women, behavioral alterations to enhance spiritual & mental status, and herbal medication & procedure to treat complications during pregnancy. Garbhiniparicharya provides the needs of the growing fetus, the maintenance of maternal health, and the strength and vitality required during labor and for successful lactation. Inadequate care during this time breaks a critical link and affects both women and babies.

Ayurveda believes that the birth of a child triggers an imbalance in the body’s doshas, as a large gap is created in the womb that was once occupied by the fetus and placenta. The process of childbirth, which is physically demanding and rigorous, excites Vatadosha. Once Vata is aggravated, it is in its nature to rush in and occupy empty spaces and childbirth gives Vata a large empty space to occupy. Traditional post natal practices therefore centre around nourishing, oil and ghee based warm food and regimens like abhyanga to remove fatigue, provide strength back to the body and reduce the likelihood of vata rushing in and upsetting the body’s dosha balance.

There are different opinions about the duration of this period, which ranges from six weeks to six months and some believe that it lasts until the restoration of menstrual cycle. A special diet plan for the prasuta (the lady who has just delivered) is recommended for this period to make good the loss of the reproductive fluids and blood during pregnancy and delivery. The prasuta should consume light, yet nourishing food during the sutikakaal (period between delivery and first menstrual cycle thereafter).

Ayurveda says that after delivery, the mother’s digestive fire (agni) will be low and vata is vitiated immediately after delivery & the aims of postnatal care is to restore the agni, balance the vata, and optimize the quality of breast milk. Thus, to calm the vata which is vitiated, oil massages are recommended. After delivery, the woman becomes weak due to labour pains & loss of blood. Mithyaachar (inappropriate physical and mental behavior) in this period results in incurable diseases or diseases whichare difficult to cure. At Sevayu, a special life style is recommended, as suggested by Ayurveda, called SutikaParicharya, which is reviewed in detail to maintain the health of the client.
The initial 42 days after giving birth are an important time for healing and transition, physically and emotionally. While there is a temptation to jump back into “normal life”, honoring your body’s needs to heal and slow down will actually speed up your recovery. Ayurveda has supported this approach for thousands of years with a beautiful tradition of postpartum care. It includes foods and rituals that are incredibly grounding, nurturing, and nourishing,
At Gayatri Ayurveda, Vaidyacan assist by outlining a plan that best supports your needs. This includes Abhyanga (ayurvedic oil massage), preparation of a post-massage herbal bath that helps relieve pain and stiffness, easy to digest and nourishing Ayurvedic meals, dietary guidance, self-care guidance, ayurvedic herbal formulas to aid your recovery process and support lactation. During pregnancy, Ayurvedic protocols encourage the mother the follow right living, including dietary and lifestyle considerations.

Accompanying therapies to offer in pre-natal cases include:

Head and foot massage: Shiroabhyangha&Padabhyangha
3rd eye treatment: Shirodhara
Facial Massage
Pregnancy care massage

In post-natal cases, due attention is given to restoration, detoxification, and rejuvenation. In addition to this, dietary and herbal recommendations are give to assist the lactation process. Accompanying therapies include:

Full body massage: SarvaAbhyangha
Steam and fomentation: Svedana
Nasal administration herbs and herbal oil medications: Nasya Karma
Herbal paste therapy for stretch marks: Lepana
Rejuvenation therapy: RasayanaChikitsa

Based on your constitution, wellness needs and pregnancy planning, an Ayurvedic specialist will recommend a specific therapeutic protocol.

Skin, Hair and Beauty Care Management:

Beauty is the desire of every individual. The concept of using herbs and therapies for beautification is well defined in Ayurveda. “You are what you digest.” A radiant, clear complexion begins with proper nutrition, efficient digestion and assimilation of nutrients by the body, and regular elimination. Ayurveda defines skin types based on Vata (dry), Pitta (sensitive) and Kapha (oily). Any imbalance in the doshas (bodily humors) may have an adverse effect on the skin as well. Since the skin is exposed to all kind of pollutants and varied weather conditions, it requires an extra attention and care based on the varied seasons and the age of a person.

Ayurveda ensures that the skin care therapies are effective from within the system by rebalancing the dosha derangements and cleanse the Raktadhathu (blood) which nurtures the skin, by eradicating the impurities. Ayurveda emphasizes on external and internal beauty. It is believed in Ayurveda that one can enhance internal beauty by understanding and following the basic principles of Ayurveda. Health promotion, beauty management and healing in Ayurveda rely on freeing the body of ama (toxins), restoring cellular nutrition, facilitating complete elimination and re-establishing the balance of the doshas.

Ayurveda determined beauty by prakriti (Body constitution), sara (structural predominance), sanhanan (compactness of body), twak (skin completion), Praman (Measurement). According to Ayurveda, healthy skin is a result of the overall health condition of individuals, and prescribes numerous skin care treatment that need to be pursued at every stage of life. The function of ayurvedic herbs is to purify skin & eliminate the vitiated Tridoshas (Vitiated Humors) from the body as they are mainly responsible for skin disorders and other diseases.

The origins of Ayurvedic Cosmeceuticals date back to the Indus Valley Civilization. The use of cosmetics was not only directed towards developing an attractive external appearance but towards achieving longevity with good health.

Ayurvedic cosmeceuticals are very much prized for their safe, holistic action. According to Ayurveda, a number of factors determine skin health and youthfulness. These include proper moisture balance (Kapha in balance), effective functioning of the metabolic mechanisms that coordinate all the various chemical and hormonal reactions of the skin (Pitta in balance) and efficient circulation of blood and nutrients to the different layers of the skin (Vata in balance). The health of the following three dhatus (types of body tissue) is especially reflected in the skin: nutritional fluid (Rasa), blood (Rakta) and muscle (Mamsa). Rasa supports all the body tissues, particularly keeping the skin healthy, Rakta, in association with liver function, helps detoxify the skin of toxins, while Mamsa provides firmness to the skin.

Consultation at Gayatri Ayurveda includes Dosha and skin type assessment, and pulse diagnosis that helps to understands internal imbalances. This includes diet and lifestyle changes, customized herbal and skincare formulas and therapies. We offer a holistic solution for skin problems such as Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, Dermatitis, pigmentation disorders and prematurely wrinkled skin. Our therapies begin with skilled and experienced professionals who analyze your skin and makes appropriate recommendations for your optimal skin health, customizing your treatment to your specific condition. Therapies at Gayatri Ayurveda detoxifies, rejuvenates, improves circulation and restores radiance to the skin.

The Ayurvedic View of Ageing, and its Reversal

Aging is a universal process that began with the origin of life, itself. Undoubtedly, human aging is associated with a wide range of physiological and cellular changes that limit our normal functions and make us more susceptible to death.

Aging has two main components, Chronological Aging which refers to the actual age of the person in terms of years, months, and days. This component of aging is unstoppable, unchangeable and irreversible. Physiological aging is the second component and refers to an individual’s development and changes based on certain cellular or molecular parameters. Thus, biological aging is a set of processes that trigger deterioration of health and ultimately to death as a function of chronological age. Unlike chronological aging, biological aging can be reversed or delayed. While aging in itself is inevitable, there are ways to reduce or delay the pathological effects of aging.

Aging is known as “Jara” defined as that which has become old by the act of wearing out. Ayurveda divides human life into—childhood (up to the age 16 years); youth and middle age [from 16 to 60 years (charaka) or 70 years (sushruta) and exhibits progressively the traits of growth ( 16–20 years of age), youth ( 20–30 years), maturity ( 30–40 years), deterioration ( 40 years onwards) which gradually sets in up to 60 years]; old age, wherein after 60–70 years the body elements, sense organs, strength, and so forth, begin to decay.

While describing aging, Ayurveda takes in consideration Prana (life energy that performs respiration, oxygenation and circulation). It governs two other subtle essence ojas and tejas. Ojas (the essence of the seven dhatus or bodily tissues) is responsible for the auto-immune system and mental intelligence, it is necessary for longevity. Displaced ojas creates the kapha-related disorders and decreased ojas creates vata-related reactions.

Tejas (the essence of a very subtle fire or energy) governs metabolism through the enzyme system. Agni promotes digestion, absorption and assimilation of food. Tejas is necessary for the nourishing and transformation of each dhatu. Aggravated tejas, burns away ojas reducing immunity and over stimulating pranic activity.

Aggravated prana produces degenerative disorders in the dhatus. Lack of tejas results in over production of unhealthy tissue and obstructs the flow of pranic energy. Just as it is essential to maintain balance amongst the tridosha—vata, pitta, kapha principles of motion, metabolism, structure, respectively, the dhatus and the three malas (bodily wastes); it is also important for longevity that prana, ojas and tejas remain in balance. The tridosha play a very important role in the maintenance of cellular health and longevity. Kapha maintains longevity on the cellular level. Pitta governs digestion and nutrition. Vata, which is closely related to pranic life energy, governs all life functions. Proper diet, exercise and lifestyle can create a balance among these three subtle essences, ensuring long life.

The use of Ayurvedic herbs was not only directed towards developing an attractive external appearance, but towards achieving longevity with good health. The terms of anti-aging activity described in Ayurveda are age defying, brighten skin-glow, cell regeneration, healing, nurturing, anti-inflammatory, strengthening skin metabolism and retarding aging. Many of these practices strongly depend on the season as well as daily routine has an subtle importance of its own.

Ayurveda considers Rasayana (rejuvenation and tonification) as one of the foremost branches of Astanga Ayurveda. The word Rasāyana should not be mistaken as a therapy exclusively related to old age. It can be applied from pediatrics to geriatrics. Susruta defies Rasāyana as a measure, which prolongs and provides positive health, improves mental faculties and provides resistance and immunity against diseases. Charaka states that the means of obtaining optimum nourishment to the Dhatus are called Rasayanas. Hence Rasyanas are good to be adopted to stop as well as reverse the accelerating or triggering of an early onset of aging.

Ayurveda describes several processes to address control and prevention of aging. There have been studies indicating physiological benefits of Panchakarma. Here at Gayatri Ayurveda, we offer various rejuvenative therapies with help of special class of medicinal preparations called Rasayana that are believed to rebuild the body, mind, prevent degeneration and delay aging or rather reverse the aging process.