In Ayurveda we can discover practical and reliable knowledge about the prevention and treatment of disease, the maintenance of health, and the promotion of longevity. Ayurveda defines health not only in terms of a balanced physiology of the physical body, but also as a state of harmony and contentment in every aspect of life. Thus, not only is it a medical approach to health–Ayurveda can also be the foundation for the spiritual evolution of humankind.
Detoxification is one of the more widely used treatments and concepts in Ayurvedic medicine. It is based on the principle that illnesses can be caused by the accumulation of toxic substances (toxins) in the body. Eliminating existing toxins and avoiding new toxins are essential parts of the healing process.
It consists of an approach that claims to rid the body of “toxins” – accumulated harmful substances that allegedly exert undesirable effects on individual health in the short or long term.
The premise of body cleansing is based on foods consumed, which futher putrefy and produce toxins that harm the body.
Purpose of Detoxification is helpful for those patients suffering from many chronic diseases and conditions, including allergies, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, chronic infections, depression, diabetes, headaches, heart disease, high cholesterol, low blood sugar levels, digestive disorders, mental illness, and obesity.
It is helpful for those with conditions that are influenced by environmental factors as well as for those who have been exposed to high levels of toxic materials due to accident or occupation.
This therapy is useful for those suffering from allergies or immune system problems that conventional medicine is unable to diagnose or treat, including chronic fatigue syndrome, environmental illness / multiple chemical sensitivity, and fibromyalgia.
This Therapy also useful in Symptoms for those suffering these conditions may include unexplained fatigue, increased allergies, hypersensitivity to common materials, intolerance to certain foods and indigestion, aches and pains, low grade fever, headaches, insomnia, depression, sore throats, sudden weight loss or gain, lowered resistance to infection, general malaise, and disability.
Detoxification can be used as a beneficial preventative measure and as a tool to increase overall health, vitality, and resistance to disease.
Panchkarma Therapies
Panchkarma Therapies are physical therapies such as various massages, enemas, and other procedures described below which correspond to the bodies own natural cleansing functions. Normally, the body can cleanse itself without assistance.
It mainly include:
- Nasya Karma: The application of specially herbalized nasal drops which cleanse the sinuses and removes impurities from the throat, facial, and supraclavicular areas.
- Vamana Karma: Excellent in treating all kapha-type conditions including asthma, bronchitis, allergies, depression, and many digestive problems.
- Virechana Karma: It is a procedure which involves an initial consumption of an oily or unctuous substance followed by the administration of an herbal laxative. The oleation acts as a solvent and mobilizer for certain toxins in the body and also promotes strength, good complexion, efficient digestion, and proper function of the sense organs. The subsequent laxative therapies eliminates the toxins loosened by the oleation and causes a maximal dilation of the hepatic, biliary, and other channels which allows for the removal of lipid-soluble impurities.
- Vasthi Karma: Gentle, herbalized enemas which cleanse the rectum and lower colon and eliminate excess vata dosha from the physiology.
- Raktamokshana: The removal of a small quantity of blood from the patient using modern sterile techniques; traditionally this was accomplished with special jaluka, or leeches. This procedure is valuable if there is toxicity in the blood. It also stimulates production of fresh blood cells from the bone marrow.
Other Therapies
Abhyanga
The body is massaged with warm, herbalized oils by one or more therapists working in perfect unison. This promotes deep relaxation and gently stimulates the marma points leading to a state of mental balance and heightened awareness. This is the renowned “oil massage” of Ayurveda.
Swedana
An herbalized steam treatment promotes perspiration and elimination of toxins from the fatty tissues and nerves via the sweat glands. This treatment also optimizes the circulation and dissolves impurities.
Shirodhara
A continuous stream of warm, herbal oil flows from an overhead vessel through a small aperture onto the forehead. This treatment is said to purify the mind-body, and profoundly relax the nervous system. Individuals experience twilight states of consciousness between waking and dreaming.
Udvartna
A general term for therapies in which herbal pastes (or muds) are applied to all parts of the body. Patients are wrapped in warm blankets and the paste removed when dry. This treatment exfoliates the skin, penetrates to the muscles and fat tissues and removes impurities. Useful in stimulating weight reduction.
Naturopathy Therapy
- Hot and cold Fomentation
- Mud Therapy
- Enema
Other Therapy
- Meditation
- Pranayama
- Yoga
- Exercise
- Diet
- Life Style Modification