Panchakarma – The Five petal lotus from Ayurveda

A true blog based on Samhitas

Panchakarma is one of the most well-known treatment procedures in Ayurveda. There are a lot of misconceptions about both Ayurveda & Panchakarma. So many people ask Vaidya (Ayurvedic practitioner), can I take Panchakarma treatment? Everywhere, we could see many centers offering ayurvedic detoxification, Kerala panchakarma, etc. What is Panchakarma? What should you give attention to while doing it? Let’s dive in-depth.

In Ayurveda, treatment procedures are broadly categorized as Shodana (Cleansing) & Shamanam (alleviate).

In Shodhana Chikitsa, with the help of medication, the aggravated Dosha ( Vata, Pitta & Kapha) gets expelled from the body. The following treatments come under Shodhana Chikitsa

Vasti – Medicated Enema
Vamana – Emesis
Virechana – Purgation
Nasya – Nasal Treatment
Raktamokshana – Bloodletting

These treatments together are known as Pancha Karma (Pancha Means 5).

In Shamana Chikitsa, with the help of medication, “thri-doshas” (Vata, Pitta & Kabha) are brought to normalcy, but without expelling the aggravated doshas from the body. This includes medicines to increase the digestive fire, medications that help proper digestion, Upavasam (fasting), exercise, etc.

As we discussed already, Panchakarma involves five main procedures. Before undergoing each of these treatments, one has to follow and do certain things before and after. These help us get the desired result for that karma. All these treatments can’t be done in any season; similarly, they can’t be exercised on all kinds of people. These indications and contraindication are discussed in detail in Ayurveda.

Let’s see a few contraindications.

Vamana(Emesis) should not be exercised on pregnant women, children, people with heart disease, weak, very lean, or overweight.

Virechana(Purgation) should not be exercised on people having newly originated fever, diarrhea, less digestive fire, or any bleeding disorder.

Similarly, certain conditions are there for each treatment in the Panchakarma process. Considering nature, health condition of the person, stage of the disease, climate, and detailed observation, the vaidya (practitioner) decides which treatments have to be done.

Snehanam and Swedanam are two preparatory treatments done before starting the Panchakarma.

Snehanam: Depending on the health & diseased condition of the person, certain medicated oils, ghee, vasa, or bone marrow have to be decided and given orally every day for 3 to 7 days. The quantity consumed increases day by day, and continues still specific symptoms are observed. Strict dietary restrictions have to be followed while doing these along with enough rest, both mental and physical. During this period, you should not sleep during day time and should sleep at night, also use only warm water for all daily activities like washing your body, brushing, etc. You should not talk too much or get exposed to sunlight or heavy wind. Noncompliance to these will bring troubles and adverse effects from fatigue to fever. One should take food only once or twice a day that too easily digestible and warm. Continuous monitoring is essential to decide what to do and what not to do daily during the treatment.

Swedanam: After doing Snehanam for up to 3 days, medicated oil is applied to the body, and a steam bath is taken. These two procedures will help bring back the aggravated doshas to the koshta ( gastrointestinal tract) from the other body parts. In the course of Swedanam, specific food has to be taken based on what panchakarma treatments are decided to follow. Vaidya will fix this after observing the patient.

Snehanam & Swedanam will help the proper removal of impurities from the body. Now let’s look into the primary treatment procedures in Panchakarma which follow after this.

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Vamanam: In this process, with the aid of medicines, impurities are removed from the body through vomiting. This is important for managing increased Kapha.

Virechanam: In this treatment, with the aid of medicine, impurities are escalated from the body through stools. This is important for increased Pitta, and other conditions arise due to imbalanced Pitta.

Vasti: In Vasti, special medicated decoction or medicated oil and ghee in a specific ratio is taken, and enema is given with that for a specific time. All impurities come out along with medicines given after some time. This is important for excess Vata and related issues.

Nasyam/ Shiro Virechanam: Nostrils are the entry point to the head. For all diseases related to the head and above the shoulder, Nasyam is the main treatment procedure. Medicated oil, ghee, powder form of herbs, extracted juice of herbs will be used for Nasyam, and these will bring out the vitiated dosha through nostril. The medicine is directly poured into the nostrils. Broadly two types of treatment lines are there with Nasyam

Prathimarsham Nasyam: 1 or two drops applied in each nostril. It can be done every day to all age groups.

Marsha Nasyam: Medication is used in larger doses ( 4,8,16,32 drops) for a specific time period.

Rakta Mokshanam: Draining impure blood from our body. This is done in two ways. One way is using leeches to suck blood, and the other through draining at specific quantities through blood vessels using needles.

Once the whole treatment is over, the vital energy levels and digestive fire will be slow & low. So one has to be careful with the strict diet, physical exertion and should follow guidelines prescribed by vaidya after observing your condition. After a few days, you can resume normal daily life and routines.

The treatment is more personalized for each individual, depending on Prakriti and health conditions. Which and all treatments are to be done? When to do it? What medicines to use? Which food to take, all these are decided by the Vayida after keen observation. Improper treatment may bring more trouble to the patient than any benefit. So one must understand the treatment and take it seriously. Make sure you undertake it with proper guidance and with experienced practitioners.

Not just diseased, a healthy person could also take Panchakarma. Our improper daily routines and climate will bring imbalance to our body, and Panchakarma will help restore balance by properly eliminating impurities and keeping you healthy and immune to diseases.

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Discovering the Diversity of Indian Medicine: A Guide to Traditional Healing

Welcome to our blog! Here in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, I practice Ayurvedic medicine, a holistic healing system from India. My patients come from all over the world, seeking natural remedies and wellness advice.

In this blog series, we’ll explore different types of traditional Indian medicine. It’s important to know that not all traditional Indian healing methods are the same. Ayurveda, for example, is just one of many.

Importance of unconventional/traditional medicines

We’ll learn about Ayurveda, which is about more than just massages—it’s a whole system of medicine that includes things like diet, lifestyle, and herbal treatments. We’ll also talk about yoga, which focuses on exercises and meditation for overall well-being.

Then there’s Siddha medicine, which comes from the Tamil culture and uses herbs and energy healing. And let’s not forget Unani medicine, which balances the body using natural remedies.

It’s easy to get confused with all these terms, especially when some people use “Ayurveda” to sell products or services that aren’t real Ayurvedic. That’s why it’s important to understand the differences between these traditions.

Through this blog, we’ll learn how to tell the real deal from the fake and make informed choices about our health. So let’s dive in and discover the rich world of Indian medicine together!

Continuing our exploration, it’s essential to underscore a crucial distinction: not all traditional Indian healing practices fall under the umbrella of Ayurveda. While Ayurveda holds a prominent place in the landscape of holistic wellness, it is but one facet of a much broader spectrum of ancient healing traditions.

Similarly, Siddha medicine, rooted in the ancient Tamil culture, offers a unique approach to healing, incorporating elements of alchemy, energy medicine, and herbal pharmacology. Unani medicine, influenced by Greek and Arabic traditions, emphasizes the balance of the four humors and the use of natural remedies to restore health and vitality.

In our interconnected world, where information abounds and wellness trends proliferate, it’s easy to fall prey to misconceptions or misrepresentations. The term “Ayurveda” has become a catch-all phrase, often used indiscriminately to market products or services that have little to do with authentic Ayurvedic principles. From spa treatments to dietary supplements, the commodification of Ayurveda has blurred the lines between genuine healing and commercial exploitation.

Yoga, for instance, is often erroneously conflated with Ayurveda. While both disciplines share historical roots and philosophical principles, they serve distinct purposes. Yoga focuses on the integration of mind, body, and spirit through physical postures, breathwork, and meditation, offering a pathway to self-awareness and inner peace. On the other hand, Ayurveda encompasses a comprehensive system of medicine that addresses the holistic well-being of individuals, encompassing diet, lifestyle, herbal remedies, and the therapeutic treatments.

Therefore, it is incumbent upon us, as seekers of health and seekers of truth, to educate ourselves about the rich tapestry of Indian medical systems and discern between authentic practices and superficial imitations. Let us not be swayed by marketing gimmicks or flashy promises, but instead delve deep into the roots of these ancient traditions, honoring their wisdom and respecting their integrity.

As practitioners and advocates of holistic wellness, we owe it to ourselves and to our communities to promote awareness, integrity, and authenticity in the realm of traditional healing. By fostering a culture of discernment and critical inquiry, we empower individuals to make informed choices about their health and well-being, free from the shackles of deception or exploitation.

Together, let us reclaim the true essence of Ayurveda and its sister traditions, honoring their legacy and embracing their transformative power to heal, nourish, and uplift the body, mind, and spirit.

Types of Indian Medicines

Certainly! In India, alongside conventional allopathic medicine, there are several alternative medical systems that are recognized and regulated by the government. These systems have their own educational institutions, councils, and regulatory bodies. Here’s an overview of some of the major alternative medical systems recognized by the Indian government and their educational landscape:

Ayurveda: Ayurveda is one of the oldest holistic healing systems in the world, originating in India thousands of years ago. It emphasizes the balance of mind, body, and spirit for overall health and wellness. The Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) is the regulatory body overseeing Ayurvedic education and practice in India. Ayurvedic education is offered at various levels, including undergraduate (BAMS—Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery), postgraduate, and doctoral degrees. There are numerous Ayurvedic colleges and universities across India offering accredited programs.
Yoga and Naturopathy: Yoga and Naturopathy are natural healing systems that focus on lifestyle interventions, including yoga postures, breathing exercises, dietary changes, and natural therapies. The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) regulates education and practice in Yoga and Naturopathy. Various universities and institutes offer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Yoga and Naturopathy, with a curriculum that includes theoretical knowledge, practical training, and clinical experience.
Unani Medicine: Unani medicine, also known as Yunani or Greco-Arabic medicine, is based on the teachings of Hippocrates and Galen and incorporates elements of ancient Greek, Arabic, and Persian medicine. The Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) regulates Unani education and practice in India. Unani colleges offer bachelor’s (BUMS—Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery), master’s, and doctoral programs. The curriculum covers subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical training in Unani diagnosis and treatment methods.
Siddha Medicine: Siddha medicine is a traditional healing system that originated in South India and is believed to have been taught by Lord Shiva to his disciples. It employs herbal remedies, mineral preparations, and spiritual practices to maintain health and treat diseases. The Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) oversees Siddha education and practice. Siddha colleges offer undergraduate (BSMS—Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery) and postgraduate programs, focusing on Siddha principles, diagnosis, and therapeutics.
Homeopathy: Homeopathy is a system of alternative medicine based on the principle of “like cures like,” where highly diluted substances are used to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. The Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH) regulates homeopathic education and practice in India. Homeopathic colleges offer bachelor’s (BHMS—Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery), master’s, and doctoral programs.

These alternative medical systems have their own councils and regulatory bodies that oversee accreditation, licensing, and standards of practice. Graduates from accredited programs are eligible to practice and are often required to pass licensing examinations conducted by the respective councils or boards.

Overall, the Indian government recognizes and supports the integration of various traditional and alternative medical systems alongside allopathic medicine, promoting a holistic approach to healthcare and ensuring access to diverse healing modalities for the population.

In conclusion, the diverse landscape of alternative medical systems in India offers a rich tapestry of healing modalities, each with its own philosophy, principles, and practices. However, amidst this richness, it is imperative to recognize the significance of regulation and the rights of registered practitioners.

Those who have undergone accredited education and training and are duly registered with the respective regulatory bodies have the legal right to offer treatments in Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. These practitioners have demonstrated their competence and commitment to upholding the standards of their profession, ensuring the safety and well-being of their patients.

It is essential for individuals seeking alternative healthcare to verify the credentials and registration status of practitioners before seeking treatment. Mentioning Ayurveda or any other traditional system in a place not legally authorized to offer such treatments is not only misleading but also potentially harmful to patients.

As advocates for holistic wellness, we must continue to advocate for robust regulation, accountability, and transparency in the field of alternative medicine. By supporting registered practitioners and promoting awareness among the public, we can ensure that individuals have access to safe, effective, and authentic healing modalities that honor the integrity of traditional Indian medical systems.

Together, let us uphold the rights of registered practitioners and foster a culture of integrity and responsibility in the pursuit of health and well-being for all.

8th June 2024/0 Comments/by arogyaniketan_in

Awareness, Blog, Food

AHARA, The Dietary Regimens of Ayurveda

Namasthe, Here we are back with another informative series on Food and Ayurveda. Ayurveda takes a preventive approach to health, good lifestyle and proper food habits are the primary aspects. This will be a series of articles to give you insight into food and how it affects our health from an Ayurvedic perspective. Food plays a vital role in our physical and mental wellness. Knowing what you are eating, what to eat and not to eat can help you take care of your health.

In Ayurveda, food has classification based on its quality to affect Tridoshas (Kapha, Vata, and Pita) and other vital body functions. Most of the time, properly evaluating your health condition as per Ayurveda and adjusting your food based on that can bring the cure.

Todays article is about taste and how you could decide what to eat and what not to eat based on your health condition and taste.

What not to eat – Taste and Tridoshas

In our daily life, we go through several discomforts. The food we take plays a vital role in managing these discomforts. There are fundamentally six different tastes. Ayurveda classifies these six different tastes based on their effects on Tridosha. If you know which Doshas are contributing to your discomfort, you could easily decide which food you can have and what to avoid with this simple idea of taste. ( Though this information will help you in general, in certain cases there are exceptions, consult a physician for specific details)

Arogyaniketan Ayurveda Clinic & Panchakarma Centre

Dr. Parvathy Chandran BAMS

We provide classical Ayurvedic Treatments, Massage, Shirodhara, Panchakarma, etc. Please visit https://arogyaniketan.in for more information and details about our facilities.

Discovering the Diversity of Indian Medicine: A Guide to Traditional Healing
In this blog series, we’ll explore different types of traditional Indian medicine. It’s important to know that not all traditional Indian healing methods are the same. Ayurveda, for example, is just one of many.
AHARA, The Dietary Regimens of Ayurveda
If you know which Doshas are contributing to your discomfort, you could easily decide which food you can have and what to avoid with this simple idea of taste. Ayurveda classifies the basic six different tastes based on their effects on Tridosha.
Diabetes – Reversal Or Just Relief ?
Sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy food habits, stress, improper sleeping habits, etc results in the accumulation of fats over cells, and slowly cells become insulin resistant.
Are you Diabetic? Be free from Diabetes through Ayurveda
This blog is part of a three-part series on Diabetic and Ayurveda. Here we throw some light on understanding the disease, how modern treatment works, does to your body, and how, with Ayurveda, you could completely cure the disease.
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These foods can help you take care of PCOD
In Ayurveda, food has classification based on its quality to affect tridoshas (Kabha, Vata, and Pita) and other vital body functions. Most of the time, properly evaluating your health condition as per Ayurveda and adjusting your food based on that can bring the cure.
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Panchakarma – The Five Petal Lotus from Ayurveda
Panchakarma involves five main procedures. Before undergoing each of these treatments one has to follow and do certain things before and after. These help us get the desired result for that karma. All these treatments can’t be done in any season, similarly can’t be exercised on all kinds of people.

28th August 2022/0 Comments/by arogyaniketan_in

Awareness, Blog

Diabetes – Reversal Or Just Relief ?

Your health is in your hands, not on medicines!

Namaste,

This blog is the second in a three-part series on Diabetic and Ayurveda. It is recommended that you read the first part of this series to understand the subject properly.As we discussed in our earlier article when our body is not able to take up sugar ( glucose) into its cells and use it for energy, it results in a build-up of extra sugar in our bloodstream – The condition we call Diabetes.

Sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy food habits, stress, improper sleeping habits, etc results in the accumulation of fats over cells, and slowly cells become insulin resistant.

In type 2 diabetes ( most commonly seen one) insulin production will be normal in our body but because of fat accumulation over cells, they can’t utilize the insulin and glucose properly. This leads to increased sugar levels in the blood.

To treat diabetes modern medicines usually suggest oral medications and insulin therapy. Both of these work in one of these ways to treat your diabetes:-

Stimulate your pancreas to make and release more insulin
Slows down the release of glucose from the liver ( extra glucose is stored in the liver)
Blocks the breakdown of carbs in the stomach or intestines so that tissues better react to insulin
Helps get rid of glucose from the body through increased urination

Are these treatments really helping to get rid of the root cause? Or just treating you symptomatically? We already have sufficient insulin production in our body but body cells can’t utilize it and again if you are giving extra work to the pancreas to produce more insulin, over a period it affects the efficiency of the organ and it can’t produce enough insulin, even if we push it with external medication. And slowly you have to depend on insulin injections.

Type 1 diabetes: about 10% of people who have diabetes are of type 1, where insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed. So they have to take insulin injections every day.

From the above discussion, we can conclude that type 2 diabetes ( while on allopathy medication) over a prolonged period ends up as type 1 diabetes. Moreover, the treatment emphasises keeping the blood sugar levels in check rather than addressing the cause of it.

Ayurveda addresses the root cause of the disease rather than the symptoms. Once the root causes are fixed, symptoms will disappear naturally. What is the Ayurvedic approach to diabetes? How does it treat diabetes? All these we will discuss in the next and last blog of this series.

Discovering the Diversity of Indian Medicine: A Guide to Traditional Healing
In this blog series, we’ll explore different types of traditional Indian medicine. It’s important to know that not all traditional Indian healing methods are the same. Ayurveda, for example, is just one of many.
AHARA, The Dietary Regimens of Ayurveda
If you know which Doshas are contributing to your discomfort, you could easily decide which food you can have and what to avoid with this simple idea of taste. Ayurveda classifies the basic six different tastes based on their effects on Tridosha.
Diabetes – Reversal Or Just Relief ?
Sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy food habits, stress, improper sleeping habits, etc results in the accumulation of fats over cells, and slowly cells become insulin resistant.
Are you Diabetic? Be free from Diabetes through Ayurveda
This blog is part of a three-part series on Diabetic and Ayurveda. Here we throw some light on understanding the disease, how modern treatment works, does to your body, and how, with Ayurveda, you could completely cure the disease.
Kalyani, The beautiful woman.
Women undergo lots of physical and mental changes in their life like puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, and so on. In all these stages, she needs certain care, nourishment, and support. But in our new lifestyle, we ignore those aspects. It affects her health- the mother.
Exercise Tips for Managing PCOD
When we say exercise, it is not only physical but mental too. Here, we will help you get started with a few exercise patterns that benefit people suffering from PCOD.
These foods can help you take care of PCOD
In Ayurveda, food has classification based on its quality to affect tridoshas (Kabha, Vata, and Pita) and other vital body functions. Most of the time, properly evaluating your health condition as per Ayurveda and adjusting your food based on that can bring the cure.