Panchkarma is an Ayurvedic process of complete detoxification and cleansing. It is derived from the words ‘Panch’ and ‘Karma’ which means five cleansing procedures or activities. These five procedures of eliminating toxins from the body are Vamana, Virechana, Nasya, Basti and Raktamokshana. Panchkarma helps to remove deep-rooted toxins from the body thereby balancing the tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).
Natural Health Definition: According to Ayurveda, our natural state is one of health, happiness and an inner sense of well-being. Health is defined as the body being clear of toxins, wastes are efficiently eliminated, organs are functioning normally and the mind is at peace and emotions are balanced and positive.
In a busy, stressful and toxic world, our physical and mental systems accumulate toxins causing deterioration in bodily functioning. This eventually weakens our systems, which opens the door for chronic, degenerative, and non-specific diseases to develop.
Panchakarma the Procedure:
Purvakarma: Pre-purification Measures: Before the actual operation of purification begins, there is a need to prepare the body in prescribed methods to encourage the body to let go of the toxins. The two procedures are ‘snehan’ and ‘swedan’. Snehan is the oil massage. Swedana is a fomentation therapy given to the whole or part of the body depending on the disease.
Five Basic Shodhanas or Cleansing Methods are:
- Vaman: Therapeutic vomiting or emesis
- Virechan : Therapeutic purgation
- Basti: Medicated enema
- Nasya: Elimination of toxins through the nose
- Raktmokshana: Blood Letting
Here are Few Benefits of Panchakarma:
- Eliminates toxins and toxic conditions from your body and mind
- Restores your constitutional balance improving health and wellness
- Strengthens your immune system and so that one becomes more resistant to illness
- Reverses the negative effects of stress on your body and mind thereby slowing the aging process
- Enhances your self-reliance, strength, energy, vitality and mental clarity
- Brings about deep relaxation and sense of well-being
