Monsoon season is a harbinger of several diseases. Ayurveda believes that the monsoons tend to aggravate the functional energy or ‘Pitta’ in the human body. Therefore, while chronic ailments like arthritis and gastric problems aggravate, newer menaces like skin infections, sinusitis, asthma, indigestion and diarrhea appear to trouble us. It is also the time when the highest percentage of humidity in the air tends to drain out ‘Ojas’ or the vital fluid from our systems, leading to breathlessness and weakness. Along with physical discomfort, it also adds to our mental agony.
Ayurveda, with its natural healing system, is the best cure for rainy season diseases. For all the ‘doshas’ (problems) and overall well-being of mind and body during the monsoons, Ayurveda recommends ‘Panchakarma’ treatments. This healing method is used to clean the body of toxic materials created by diseases and poor nutrition. It strengthens the immune system and enhances the digestive fire. Here are some Panchakarma treatments best suited for the wet weather.
Abhyanga
This treatment is a full body massage with warm herbal oils, which vary depending on the patients’ condition. It is performed by massage therapists working in sync. It helps in relaxing, nourishing and revitalising the body. It improves blood circulation, imparts firmness to the limbs, and stimulates the internal organs. It softens and smoothens the skin, and reduces stress and effects of ageing.
Dhara
In this treatment, medicated liquids such as herbal oils, medicated milk or butter milk, and decoctions are poured over the patient’s body in a special manner. This treatment is best for curing chronic headaches, insomnia and mental tension. It can improve memory and calm the nerves. It has a very cooling effect and heals skin diseases like inflammation and psoriasis. It activates the growth of thick, soft and glossy hair.
Pizhichil
Clothes dipped in lukewarm medicated oil are squeezed over the patient’s body uniformly, and then the oil is rubbed over the body by 2 to 4 massage therapists. This treatment enhances muscular tone and retunes the entire nervous system. It is recommended for muscle aches and pains, rheumatic problems, osteoarthritis, fatigue, sexual problems and neurological disorders.
Swedanam
In this therapy, the patient is made to sweat by using steam from boiling herbs, which vary depending on the ailment. The steam softens and melts the toxins in the body, which are deposited in the peripheral tissues of the skin. The process opens up the pores on the skin and expels the toxins directly through sweating. It cures cough and sinusitis, relieves stiffness of the body, and reduces excess weight gain.
Virechana
This purgation therapy eliminates ‘Pitta dosha’ (disorders related to secretion of bile) and removes toxic accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract, liver and gallbladder through the anal passage. Thus it improves metabolism and fat digestion. This procedure is effective in treating chronic fever, skin diseases, piles, jaundice, irritable bowel syndrome, asthma, gout and digestive disorders.
At Ayurvalley, we provide you the best Ayurvedic rejuvenation treatments for ailments during the rainy season.
