Therapeutics

Ayurvedic Therapies

1. Purva Karma (Preparatory Procedures for Panchakarma)

Purva Karma refers to the preliminary steps taken before the main Panchakarma therapies to ensure the body is adequately prepared for detoxification. It consists of three main procedures:

1.1 Deepana-Pachana (Digestive Stimulation and Toxin Reduction)

• Purpose: Enhances Agni (digestive fire) and reduces Ama (toxins) in the body.
• Procedure: Herbal formulations such as Trikatu, Chitrak, and Pippali are administered to improve digestion.
• Classical Reference:
  “Agni deepanam, ama pachanam, doshanam saithilya karanam.”
  (Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 16/20)
  Translation: Strengthening digestion, reducing toxins, and loosening doshas is essential before detoxification.

1.2 Snehana (Oleation Therapy)

• Purpose: Lubricates internal organs and mobilizes toxins.
• Types: External (Abhyanga – oil massage) and Internal (medicated ghee ingestion).
• Oils Used: Mahanarayana Taila, Ksheerabala Taila.

1.3 Swedana (Sudation Therapy)

• Purpose: Induces sweating to loosen toxins for elimination.
• Types: Nadi Sweda (localized steam), Bashpa Sweda (full-body steam).
• Indications: Joint pain, muscle stiffness, Kapha imbalances.

 

2. Panchakarma: The Five Detoxification Procedures

Panchakarma is a deep cleansing therapy in Ayurveda that eliminates toxins and restores health.

2.1 Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis)

• Purpose: Detoxifies Kapha dosha and excess mucus accumulation.
• Indications: Asthma, allergies, skin disorders, obesity.
• Procedure: Administration of medicated ghee followed by induced vomiting.
• Classical Reference:
  “Kapha meha ghrana shwasa kasa mandagni mutra krichchhrah |
  Prameha sweda dourgandhya Vamane hitamuttamam ||”
  (Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 16/20)
  Translation: Vamana therapy is best for diseases related to excess Kapha, such as respiratory disorders, diabetes, excessive sweating, and foul body odor.

2.2 Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation)

• Purpose: Pitta dosha elimination through bowel cleansing.
• Indications: Liver disorders, skin diseases, acidity, and piles.
• Procedure: Administration of herbal laxatives like Trivrit (Operculina turpethum).

2.3 Basti (Medicated Enema Therapy)

• Purpose: Balances Vata dosha, strengthens digestion, and rejuvenates.
• Types: Anuvasana Basti (oil-based) & Niruha Basti (herbal decoction-based).

2.4 Nasya (Nasal Therapy)

• Purpose: Clears sinus congestion, enhances mental clarity, and treats headaches.
• Procedure: Medicated oils such as Anu Taila or Brahmi Ghrita are instilled in the nostrils.

2.5 Raktamokshana (Bloodletting Therapy)

• Purpose: Purifies blood, removes toxins, and treats skin disorders.
• Methods: Jalauka (Leech Therapy), Siravyadha (Venesection).

 

3. Mudra Therapy

Mudras are hand gestures that channel energy flow in the body and balance doshas.

• Gyan Mudra: Enhances memory and concentration.
• Prana Mudra: Boosts vitality and immunity.
• Apan Mudra: Detoxifies the body and supports digestion.

 

Naturopathy Therapies

1. Hydrotherapy (Water-Based Healing)

• Hot & Cold Water Compress
• Sitz Bath for Detoxification
• Steam Baths for Toxin Removal

 

2. Mud Therapy

• Purpose: Detoxifies, improves circulation, and relieves inflammation.
• Types: Mud packs for skin disorders, full-body mud bath.

 

3. Chromotherapy (Color Therapy)

Color therapy is based on the vibrational energy of colors and their effect on health.

• Red: Stimulates circulation and energy.
• Blue: Calms the mind and reduces stress.
• Green: Promotes healing and balance.

 

4. Diet Therapy (Nature Cure Diet)

• Raw food diet, fruit fasting, alkaline diet for balancing pH levels.
• Eliminates toxins and restores gut health.

Conclusion

Ayurveda and Naturopathy, when combined, offer a holistic, non-invasive, and natural way of healing by aligning the body with nature’s rhythms. Both approaches emphasize detoxification, rejuvenation, and prevention rather than just treatment. These therapies not only cure diseases but also enhance overall wellness, longevity, and vitality.

 

Satkarma in Ayurveda: The Six Purification Techniques

Satkarma (षट्कर्म) refers to the six purification techniques described in Ayurveda and Yoga for cleansing the body and mind. These techniques are primarily mentioned in Hatha Yoga Pradipika and other classical texts and are used to remove toxins, balance the doshas, and enhance pranic energy flow.

 

1. Dhauti (धौती) – Internal Cleansing

Dhauti is a purification method to cleanse the digestive tract, removing excess mucus and toxins.

Types of Dhauti:

• Antar Dhauti (अन्तर धौती) – Cleansing the stomach and intestines.
• Vamana Dhauti (वमन धौती) – Inducing vomiting to expel undigested food.
• Vastra Dhauti (वस्त्र धौती) – Swallowing a long cloth strip to clean the stomach.
• Danta Dhauti (दन्त धौती) – Cleaning the teeth, tongue, and throat.

📜 Reference:
“धौतीक्रियां प्रयत्नेन कुर्याद् योगी समाहितः।“
(Hatha Yoga Pradipika 2.23)
“A yogi should practice Dhauti with full concentration.”

 

2. Basti (बस्ति) – Colon Cleansing

Basti is similar to an enema and is used to cleanse the intestines by drawing water or air into the colon.

Types of Basti:

• Jala Basti (जल बस्ति) – Using water to cleanse the colon.
• Sthala Basti (स्थल बस्ति) – Using air suction for colon cleansing.

📜 Reference:
“नाडी संस्थं मलं धृत्वा बस्तिकर्म समाचरेत्।“
(Hatha Yoga Pradipika 2.26)
“Basti cleanses the intestines and removes impurities.”

 

3. Neti (नेति) – Nasal Cleansing

Neti is a technique to cleanse the nasal passages and sinuses, improving breathing and mental clarity.

Types of Neti:

• Jala Neti (जल नेति) – Using saline water to rinse the nasal passages.
• Sutra Neti (सूत्र नेति) – Passing a thread or rubber catheter through the nostrils.

📜 Reference:
“नेति क्रियां तु यो नित्यं कुरुते नासिकां शुद्धम्।“
“स सदा मुक्तभावं च लभते ध्यानगोचरम्॥“
“One who regularly practices Neti achieves purity of the nasal passages and heightened concentration.”

 

4. Nauli (नौली) – Abdominal Massage

Nauli involves the contraction and rotation of abdominal muscles, strengthening the digestive fire (Agni) and eliminating toxins.

Types of Nauli:

• Madhyama Nauli (मध्यम नौली) – Central abdominal contraction.
• Vama Nauli (वाम नौली) – Left-sided abdominal contraction.
• Dakshina Nauli (दक्षिण नौली) – Right-sided abdominal contraction.

📜 Reference:
“सर्व रोगापहं चैतत् पवनं दिग्धिनाशनम्।“
“नौलीं तु कृत्वा योगीन्द्रः सर्व रोगैः प्रमुच्यते॥“
“Nauli removes all diseases and ignites digestive fire.”

 

5. Trataka (त्राटक) – Eye Cleansing and Concentration

Trataka is a technique for cleansing the eyes and enhancing focus by gazing at a fixed point, such as a candle flame.

Types of Trataka:

• External Trataka (बाह्य त्राटक) – Gazing at an object or flame.
• Internal Trataka (आन्तरिक त्राटक) – Visualizing an object mentally.

📜 Reference:
“त्राटकं निर्मलं चक्षुः स्नेहं ददाति योगिनाम्।“
“Trataka purifies the eyes and improves vision.”

 

6. Kapalabhati (कपालभाति) – Skull-Shining Breath

Kapalabhati is a pranayama technique that involves forceful exhalation to cleanse the respiratory system and energize the brain.

📜 Reference:
“कपालभातिश्चैव प्राणायामश्च खेचरी।“
“कफदोषहरं प्रोक्तं विशेषेण विधीयते॥“
“Kapalabhati removes Kapha and enhances lung function.”

Conclusion

Satkarma techniques are essential in Ayurveda and Yoga for detoxifying the body, balancing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, and enhancing spiritual and physical well-being. They prepare the body for higher yogic practices and mental clarity.

 

Kriyakalpa in Shalakya Tantra (क्रियाकल्प in शालाक्य तंत्र)

Kriyakalpa (क्रियाकल्प) refers to the specialized therapeutic procedures used in Shalakya Tantra (शालाक्य तंत्र), the branch of Ayurveda dealing with eye, ear, nose, throat (ENT), and head-related disorders. These procedures aim to detoxify, rejuvenate, and heal the sensory organs, particularly the eyes.

📜 Reference from Classical Texts:
➤ Sushruta Samhita Uttaratantra and Ashtanga Hridaya Uttarasthana describe various Kriyakalpas as essential treatments for ophthalmic and ENT disorders.

 

The Six Main Kriyakalpas in Shalakya Tantra

Each Kriyakalpa is designed for specific conditions and acts through cleansing, nourishment, and strengthening of the organs.

1. Aschyotana (अस्योतन) – Eye Drops/Instillation

• Definition: It is the process of instilling medicated liquids or eye drops into the eyes.
• Purpose: Immediate relief in conditions like burning, redness, pain, and infections.
• Types: Based on temperature
  • Sheet (Cool) Aschyotana – For Pitta disorders like burning sensation.
  • Ushna (Warm) Aschyotana – For Vata disorders like dryness and roughness.
  • Madhyama (Lukewarm) Aschyotana – For Kapha disorders like excessive secretions.
• Indications: Conjunctivitis, Dry Eye Syndrome, Eye Allergies.

📜 Reference:
“स्निग्धं शीतं समं चोष्णं दोषानुसारतो हि तत्।“
(Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra 18.8)
“The type of Aschyotana should be chosen based on dosha involvement.”

 

2. Seka (सेक) – Eye Wash/Fomentation

• Definition: A continuous pouring of medicated decoctions over closed eyes.
• Purpose: To soothe, cleanse, and heal the eyes.
• Types:
  • Sheeta Seka – For Pitta-related eye disorders (e.g., redness, burning).
  • Ushna Seka – For Kapha/Vata-related conditions (e.g., infections, inflammation).
• Indications: Corneal ulcers, Keratitis, Eye strain, Infections.

📜 Reference:
“सेकं क्षीराम्बुदुग्धाभ्यां शीतोष्णाभ्यां करोति यः।“
(Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra 18.10)
“Seka is done using milk or herbal decoctions based on the dosha imbalance.”

 

3. Vidalaka (विदलक) – Herbal Paste Application

• Definition: Application of medicated herbal pastes around the eyes to relieve irritation and inflammation.
• Purpose: It draws out toxins, reduces inflammation, and improves vision.
• Indications: Dark circles, Eye pain, Swelling, Puffiness, Fatigue.
• Common Herbs Used: Triphala, Yashtimadhu (Licorice), Haridra (Turmeric).

📜 Reference:
“विदलकं द्विधा प्रोक्तं शीतोष्णं दोषसङ्ग्रहे।“
(Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra 18.13)
“Vidalaka is of two types: cooling and heating, depending on the dosha involvement.”

 

4. Pindi (पिण्डी) – Medicated Poultice

• Definition: The application of medicated boluses wrapped in cloth and placed over the closed eyelids.
• Purpose: Acts as a slow-releasing therapy for chronic eye conditions.
• Indications: Cataract, Pterygium, Chronic Conjunctivitis, Dry Eye Syndrome.
• Common Ingredients: Haritaki, Amalaki, Ghee, Triphala decoction.

📜 Reference:
“पिण्डी तु स्थिररोगेषु प्रयुज्यते विशेषतः।“
(Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra 18.15)
“Pindi is specifically used for chronic and stubborn eye diseases.”

 

5. Tarpana (तर्पण) – Eye Nourishing Therapy

• Definition: A procedure in which medicated ghee is retained over the eyes in a boundary made of dough.
• Purpose: Nourishes and strengthens optic nerves, retina, and eye muscles.
• Indications: Weak eyesight, Myopia, Hyperopia, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Dry Eye Syndrome.
• Common Ingredients: Triphala Ghrita, Mahatriphala Ghrita, Yashtimadhu Ghrita.

📜 Reference:
“तर्पणं तु बलावृत्त्यै चक्षुषः परिकल्पितम्।“
(Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra 18.17)
“Tarpana is intended for strengthening and rejuvenating the eyes.”

 

6. Putapaka (पुटपाक) – Rejuvenative Eye Therapy

• Definition: Similar to Tarpana, but instead of ghee, fresh herbal juice extracted from roasted herbs is used.
• Purpose: Provides deeper rejuvenation and detoxification of the eye tissues.
• Indications: Chronic eye diseases, Macular Degeneration, Retinal Disorders.
• Common Herbs: Triphala, Amalaki, Haridra, Yashtimadhu.

📜 Reference:
“पुटपाकस्तु दोषघ्नः विशेषात् नेत्ररोगिणाम्।“
(Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra 18.20)
“Putapaka is especially beneficial in detoxifying and treating eye diseases.”

 

Conclusion

Kriyakalpa procedures in Shalakya Tantra are highly effective in treating eye, ear, nose, throat, and head-related disorders. They work by detoxifying, nourishing, and strengthening the organs, following Ayurvedic principles of balancing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas.

 

Other Procedures in Shalakya Tantra (Apart from Kriyakalpa)

Apart from the six major Kriyakalpas, Shalakya Tantra also includes several other specialized procedures for the treatment of ear, nose, throat (ENT), and head-related disorders. These therapies help in cleansing, strengthening, and maintaining the health of sensory organs.

 

1. Nasya Karma (नस्य कर्म) – Nasal Therapy

Nasya is a nasal administration of medicated oils, powders, or herbal juices to clear toxins from the head and improve brain function.

Types of Nasya:

📌 Based on Action:

• Virechana Nasya (विरेचन नस्य) – Cleansing therapy (for Kapha dosha).
• Brimhana Nasya (बृंहण नस्य) – Strengthening therapy (for Vata disorders).
• Shamana Nasya (शमन नस्य) – Balancing therapy for all doshas.

📌 Based on Ingredients:

• Navana Nasya (नावन नस्य) – Medicated oil/ghee drops for sinus and headaches.
• Pradhamana Nasya (प्रधामन नस्य) – Herbal powders for Kapha disorders.
• Avapeedana Nasya (अवपीडन नस्य) – Herbal juice for acute nasal congestion.

Indications:

✔ Sinusitis (Nasaarsha), Chronic headaches, Migraine
✔ Facial paralysis, Memory enhancement
✔ Allergic Rhinitis, Nasal Polyps

📜 Reference:
“नासिकायां हि यो मार्गः शिरसः सोऽसुपोषकः।“
(Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 5.55)
“The nasal passage is the gateway to the head and brain, making Nasya an essential therapy.”

 

2. Gandusha & Kavala (गण्डूष एवं कवल) – Oral Detox Therapy

These are Ayurvedic oral cleansing techniques to maintain oral hygiene and treat various dental and throat disorders.

Difference Between Gandusha & Kavala:

Therapy	Procedure	Action
Gandusha	Filling the mouth completely with medicated liquid and holding it	Deep cleansing & toxin removal
Kavala	Swishing a smaller quantity of liquid around the mouth	Strengthening teeth and gums

Types of Liquids Used:

✅ Medicated Oils (Til Taila, Triphala Ghrita) – For Vata disorders
✅ Decoctions (Triphala, Yashtimadhu, Haridra) – For Pitta disorders
✅ Warm Saline Water, Honey, or Buttermilk – For Kapha-related conditions

Indications:

✔ Bad breath, Gingivitis, Oral ulcers
✔ Dry mouth (Xerostomia), Tooth sensitivity
✔ Throat infections, Strengthening of voice

📜 Reference:
“कवलं गण्डूषं चैव मुखरोगनिवारणम्।“
(Ashtanga Hridaya, Sutrasthana 22.3)
“Gandusha and Kavala prevent oral diseases and strengthen teeth and gums.”

 

3. Dhoomapana (धूमपान) – Medicated Smoke Therapy

Dhoomapana involves inhaling medicated smoke to cleanse the respiratory system and balance Vata and Kapha doshas.

Types of Dhoomapana:

1. Prayogika Dhoomapana (प्रयोगिक धूमपान) – For daily wellness.
2. Snahika Dhoomapana (स्नेहिक धूमपान) – For Vata-related disorders (using ghee-based herbs).
3. Shamana Dhoomapana (शमन धूमपान) – For Kapha-related congestion (using hot & spicy herbs).

Indications:

✔ Chronic cough, Bronchitis, Sinusitis
✔ Weak voice, Throat infections
✔ Nasal congestion, Allergic Rhinitis

📜 Reference:
“धूमपानं प्रशस्तं स्यात् कफश्लेष्माधिके जने।“
(Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra 22.5)
“Dhoomapana is beneficial for individuals suffering from excess Kapha-related disorders.”

 

4. Karna Purana (कर्णपूरण) – Ear Oil Therapy

Karna Purana is the instillation of warm medicated oils into the ears to cleanse and strengthen the auditory system.

Procedure:

🔹 The patient lies on one side, and warm herbal oil is poured into the ear canal.
🔹 The oil is retained for a few minutes, followed by gentle massage around the ear.

Indications:

✔ Tinnitus, Ear pain, Dryness in ears
✔ Hearing loss, Vertigo, Ear infections
✔ Vata-related disorders (imbalance of ear function)

Common Oils Used:

✅ Bilva Taila – For ear infections
✅ Dashmoola Taila – For nerve strengthening
✅ Til Taila (Sesame Oil) – For overall ear health

📜 Reference:
“कर्णपूरणं तु कुर्वीत वातपित्तकफापहम्।“
(Ashtanga Hridaya, Uttarasthana 22.7)
“Karna Purana helps balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas in the ears.”

 

5. Shirodhara (शिरोधारा) – Head Oil Therapy

Shirodhara involves the continuous pouring of warm medicated oil on the forehead (Ajna Chakra) for deep relaxation and rejuvenation.

Types of Shirodhara:

🔹 Taila Dhara (Oil Pouring) – For Vata disorders (Anxiety, Insomnia).
🔹 Takra Dhara (Buttermilk Pouring) – For Pitta disorders (Migraines, Skin issues).
🔹 Kwatha Dhara (Herbal Decoction Pouring) – For Kapha-related problems.

Indications:

✔ Anxiety, Stress, Insomnia
✔ Migraine, Sinusitis, Hair loss
✔ Nervous system disorders

📜 Reference:
“शिरोधारान्निःसंदेहं मनःशान्तिः प्रजायते।“
(Ashtanga Hridaya, Sutrasthana 22.10)
“Shirodhara brings deep mental relaxation and calmness.”

 

6. Shirovasti (शिरोधारा) – Retention of Medicated Oil on the Head

Shirovasti is a therapy where medicated oil is retained on the scalp within a cap-like structure for a specific duration.

Indications:

✔ Chronic Headaches, Migraines
✔ Hair Fall, Premature Graying
✔ Depression, Neurological disorders

Common Oils Used:

✅ Brahmi Taila – For mental calmness
✅ Ksheerabala Taila – For neurological balance
✅ Dhanwantaram Taila – For Vata disorders

📜 Reference:
“शिरोवस्तिः सुखं दद्यात् स्निग्धं वर्णं बलं तथा।“
(Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 22.12)
“Shirovasti provides strength, improves complexion, and enhances mental stability.”

Conclusion

Apart from the six Kriyakalpas, these additional procedures play a crucial role in treating and maintaining the health of the head, eyes, ears, nose, and throat. These therapies detoxify, rejuvenate, and balance the doshas, offering natural solutions for various ailments.