Panchakarma — literally meaning “five actions” in Sanskrit — is the cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine and one of the most comprehensive detoxification therapies in the world. Unlike modern detox programmes, Panchakarma addresses the body, mind, and spirit simultaneously, working to eliminate accumulated toxins (ama) from every tissue and channel.
What Does Panchakarma Mean?
Pancha means five, and karma means action or procedure. The five classical Panchakarma procedures are:
- Vamana (Therapeutic emesis) — controlled purging through the upper GI tract, primarily used for Kapha disorders like respiratory conditions, obesity, and skin diseases
- Virechana (Purgation therapy) — cleansing through the lower GI tract, recommended for Pitta conditions such as liver disorders, skin issues, and digestive problems
- Basti (Enema therapy) — medicated enemas using herbal oils or decoctions; the most powerful of all five, targeting Vata imbalances
- Nasya (Nasal therapy) — administration of medicated oils through the nasal passages to clear the head, sinuses, and respiratory channels
- Raktamokshana (Bloodletting) — a specialised procedure for blood-borne toxins, now rarely used in modern practice
Who Benefits from Panchakarma?
Panchakarma is suitable for a wide range of conditions:
- Chronic digestive disorders — IBS, constipation, acidity, poor appetite
- Neurological conditions — stress, anxiety, insomnia, migraine, Parkinson’s support
- Joint and musculoskeletal issues — arthritis, back pain, sciatica
- Skin disorders — psoriasis, eczema, acne, pigmentation
- Hormonal imbalances — PCOD/PCOS, thyroid support, weight management
- Preventive wellness — seasonal detox for healthy individuals
Preparatory Procedures: Purvakarma
Before the main Panchakarma procedures begin, the body is prepared through Purvakarma — a set of preparatory therapies:
- Snehana (Oleation) — internal consumption of medicated ghee (sneha) for several days, followed by external oil massage (Abhyanga) to loosen toxins from the tissues
- Swedana (Sudation/Sweating) — herbal steam therapy to further mobilise toxins toward the GI tract for elimination
These preparations are essential — rushing into the main procedures without them can be harmful.
What to Expect at Srushti Ayurvedalaya
At Srushti Ayurvedalaya, every Panchakarma programme begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Megha K S, who assesses your Prakriti (body constitution) and current Vikriti (imbalance). A personalised programme is then designed — no two patients receive identical treatment.
A typical Panchakarma course lasts 7 to 21 days depending on the condition, and includes:
- Daily Abhyanga (full-body oil massage)
- Shirodhara or Shirobasti (head treatments)
- Steam therapy (Swedana)
- The appropriate primary Panchakarma procedure
- Dietary guidance and herbal medications
Post-Panchakarma Care
Recovery (Paschatkarma) is equally important. Dr. Megha provides detailed guidance on:
- Gradually reintroducing foods (Samsarjana Krama)
- Lifestyle adjustments for the weeks following treatment
- Herbal supplements to maintain the benefits achieved
Book Your Panchakarma Consultation
If you are in Bangalore and interested in experiencing authentic Panchakarma therapy, Dr. Megha K S at Srushti Ayurvedalaya would be happy to guide you. Call us at +91 99806 16152 or use the Book button to schedule your consultation.
