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Introduction to Pizhichil

Pizhichil (also spelled as Pizhichil or Pichu) is a therapeutic Ayurvedic treatment that involves pouring warm medicated oil all over the body, while being simultaneously massaged by two or three Ayurvedic therapists. The word “Pizhichil” comes from the Malayalam language, where “Pizhich” means “squeezing”.

During the Pizhichil therapy, medicated oils are heated to a comfortable temperature and then poured all over the body using a piece of cloth dipped in the warm oil. The therapists then use their hands to apply gentle pressure and perform massage movements to spread the oil evenly over the entire body. The oil is continually replenished and the massage lasts for about an hour.

Pizhichil therapy is believed to balance the three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha) in the body and improve overall health and well-being. It is also said to be effective in treating various ailments such as arthritis, back pain, paralysis, and insomnia. The therapy is usually recommended for a period of 7 to 14 days, depending on the individual’s condition.

Role of Snehana In Pizhichil Therapy 

Snehana is an ayurvedic therapy based on the concept of Vata and Pitta dosha. It aims to balance these two doshas and brings a sense of calmness, peace and serenity, which helps in the overall well-being of the individual.

The Sneha therapy is based on the principle that when there is an imbalance between Vata and Pitta dosha, it can affect health and disease. As such, Sneha is a very effective therapy for treating diseases related to these dosha.

Snehana therapy is a crucial part of Pizhichil Therapy that also has medicinal benefits that include: 

  • regulating the blood pressure by improving blood circulation, 
  • reducing inflammation due to chronic pain or joint pains,
  • controlling epilepsy and convulsions,
  • reducing swelling due to excessive menstrual bleeding,
  • relieving symptoms associated with colds/flu or congestion due to sinusitis,
  • managing asthma symptoms,
  • managing diabetes symptoms,
  •  managing headaches caused by bronchitis and other respiratory disorders among many others.

Importance of Swedana Swedana In Pizhichil Therapy 

Swedana therapy is one such ayurvedic medicine which can help in removing all toxic waste from your body by making sure that you get rid of all chemicals in your body. This can be done by taking regular doses of this medicine on a daily basis.

Swedana therapy also helps in reducing anxiety levels, improves digestion and helps you sleep better at night. You should keep taking these daily doses for at least 3 months or until you start feeling better from your symptoms then gradually reduce them to once a week or every other week depending upon how well you are doing with this treatment plan.

Swedana therapy is based on the belief that each organ has its own energy, and when one organ is in distress, it can affect other organs. The goal of Swedana therapy is to rebalance the patient’s body by restoring balance in their system.

Additional Benefits of Pizhichil Therapy 

Pizhichil therapy, also known as Thaila Dhara, is a popular Ayurvedic treatment that involves pouring warm medicated oil all over the body in a rhythmic manner. This therapy is believed to have several benefits and is used to treat a wide range of disorders.

According to Ayurveda, Pizhichil therapy works by balancing the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in the body. When these doshas are out of balance, they can cause various health issues. The warm medicated oil used in Pizhichil therapy helps to pacify the aggravated doshas and bring them back to their natural state of balance.

The therapeutic properties of the medicated oil used in Pizhichil therapy can also help to improve blood circulation, stimulate the nervous system, and enhance the body’s natural healing abilities. The warm oil is absorbed into the skin, which helps to nourish and rejuvenate the body from the inside out.

Pizhichil therapy is commonly used to treat various musculoskeletal disorders, such as arthritis and back pain. It can also be used to treat neurological disorders, such as paralysis and multiple sclerosis, as well as skin disorders, such as psoriasis and eczema.

According to Ayurveda, medicated herbal oils play a crucial role in maintaining good health and treating various health issues. These oils are made by infusing herbs and other natural ingredients into a base oil, such as sesame oil or coconut oil, and are used in a wide range of Ayurvedic therapies and treatments. Some of the key benefits of using medicated herbal oils in Ayurveda include:

  • Nourishing and rejuvenating the body: Herbal oils are rich in nutrients that nourish the body and help to rejuvenate the skin, muscles, and other tissues.
  • Balancing the doshas: Ayurveda believes that the different types of herbal oils can help to balance the doshas in the body, which can help to improve overall health.
  • Supporting the immune system: Some herbal oils have immune-boosting properties, which can help to strengthen the body’s natural defenses.

Here are a few examples of commonly used medicated herbal oils in Ayurveda:

  1. Brahmi oil: This oil is made from the Brahmi herb and is believed to help improve memory and cognitive function in Pizhichil Therapy. It is commonly used in Ayurvedic massages and can also be applied to the scalp to promote hair growth.
  2. Mahanarayan oil: This oil is made from a combination of herbs and is used to relieve muscle and joint pain. It is particularly helpful for those with arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders.
  3. Chandanadi oil: This oil is made from sandalwood and other herbs and is used to soothe the skin and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
  4. Ksheerabala oil: This oil is made from a combination of milk and herbs and is used to treat various neurological disorders, such as paralysis and multiple sclerosis.
  5. Narayana oil: This oil is made from a combination of herbs and is used to relieve pain and inflammation in the joints and muscles. It is particularly helpful for those with rheumatoid arthritis.