Introduction to Panchakarma

Panchakarma is considered to be an important treatment modality of Ayurveda. As the name suggests, Panchakarma is a ‘five-way’ process for complete detoxification of the body by eliminating excess doshas through nearest and easiest route. Basically it is a bio-cleansing therapy where the body is cleansed through different Shodhana procedures.

These 5 procedures are namely – Vaman (Emesis), Virechan (Purgation), Basti (Medicated Enema), Raktamokshan (Blood Letting) and Nasya (Nasal administration of medicines).

The basic idea behind the 5 procedures is identifying the excess dosha in the body which is causative factor in disease process and removing this excess dosha in order to establish balance between the 3 doshas in the body (Vata, Pitta & Kapha).

A variety of medicated oils, ghee’s, decoctions etc are used in these procedures as per indication of the disease.

The most important aspect of Panchakarma is its applicability in seasonal administration for maintaining health in otherwise healthy persons. As per one’s Prakriti, he or she can consult a Vaidya and get the appropriate Panchakarma procedure done so as to prevent diseases due to seasonal variations.