Originated in India over 5,000 years ago Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine. It emphasises the importance of maintaining a balance between the mind, body, and spirit for optimal health. And this balance is achieved with an excellent digestive system. A clean and balanced digestive system is essential for the proper functioning of the body and mind.
In Ayurveda, Panchakarma is a crucial therapy that has detoxification and rejuvenation benefits. Virechana one of the panchakarma therapy is a part of Panchakarma and aims to cleanse the digestive system and help the body regain its natural balance. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of a healthy digestive system and the details of Virechana therapy.
A] A Brief Overview Of Virechana
Virechana therapy, a part of Ayurvedic Panchakarma Therapy, involves a controlled cleansing process. Broadly there are four types of virechana karma Anulomana, Sansarjana, Bhedana and Rechana. The primary goal of therapy is to expel excess Pitta Dosha, which can lead to conditions like abscesses, liver disorders, and gastritis.
The treatment starts with the patient consuming medicated ghee or oil for several days, followed by a specific diet. On the treatment day, the patient is given a carefully chosen purgative substance, triggering controlled cleansing for a few hours under close monitoring. Afterwards, the patient receives specific dietary instructions and rests for a few days to aid recovery.
The virechana therapy helps to improve digestion, boosts metabolism, strengthens your immune system, and improves overall health and well-being.
B] Who Can Benefit from Virechana?
For individuals with an excess of Pitta Dosha, Virechana therapy may present a suitable option, particularly if they contend with skin conditions or digestive issues. Conversely, those whose constitution aligns with Kapha Dosha may find Virechana beneficial in stimulating metabolism and addressing weight-related concerns. However, individuals predominantly influenced by the airy qualities of Vata Dosha are often advised to exercise caution, as Virechana may potentially exacerbate their condition. In such cases, exploring grounding therapeutic alternatives is a prudent choice.
C] The Procedure Of Virechana Treatment
1. Preparation For The Treatment
Before the Virechana karma procedure, the person goes through Vamana, which involves vomiting treatment. After that, they follow a specific diet plan called Samsarjana, and they also undergo Oleation therapy called Snehana. This phase can last several days or weeks, depending on your health and Ayurvedic dosha type. The preparation includes consuming ghee or oil for three to seven days, as well as sweating therapy (Svedana) to release toxins from your tissues.
During this time, you should avoid heavy, oily, and spicy foods. On the treatment day, it’s important not to eat anything in the morning. Virechana treatment uses purgative substances that are primarily composed of earth and water elements, which help move doshas downward. These substances are specifically designed to eliminate excess or imbalanced Pitta Dosha from your body.
2. During The Procedure
On the day of Virechana, individuals are examined for signs of weak digestion. If the symptoms suggest inadequate food digestion, they are advised to fast for a few hours. They must have had a good night’s sleep before the therapy. The Virechana treatment usually begins in the morning, around 9-10 a.m. because that’s when the Kapha time has passed. A specific Virechana drug is given based on the person’s bowel nature, physical constitution, dosha imbalance, and any existing health issues.
A person with Pitta disorder receives purgatives with astringent and sweet properties. Those with Kapha issues get pungent herbs, while those with Vata problems receive hot, oily, and salty herbs. People with skin problems, trauma, poison exposure, inflammation, jaundice, anaemia, or diabetes may receive purgative therapy with mild Oleation using fatty substances like castor oil. However, if they’ve already undergone Oleation therapy, dry and non-fatty purgatives are recommended.
At Fazlani Nature’s Nest, a wellness retreat centre in India, our skilled therapists will keep guiding you and stay with you throughout the procedure. So don’t feel anxious.
3. After The Procedure
After the Virechana procedure, it’s important to allow your body to recover properly. The process begins with staying hydrated – aim to drink half to one glass of warm water every half hour and after each bowel movement. Rest is equally important, so spend time in your room to relax.
Once the Virechana treatment is completed, take care of your hygiene by washing your hands, feet, and face with warm water. If you are wondering what to eat after virechana, we have you covered. Gradually, light food will be introduced into your diet for a few days, followed by a return to a normal diet. During your stay at Fazlani Nature’s Nest, we’ll give you a personalised diet plan and keep you informed, so you won’t have to worry about what to eat.
Remember, it’s best to avoid heavy, oily, and spicy foods during this recovery phase for optimal results.
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D] Benefits Of Virechana Treatment
There are numerous virechana benefits. Here are a few:
- Balances Pitta dosha imbalance.
- Effective for skin disorders and allergies.
- Enhances metabolism and enables fat digestion.
- Addresses joint disorders, paraplegia, and hemiplegia.
- Relieves headaches, anaemia, and large intestine pain.
- Aids individuals with heart disease, asthma, and diabetes.
- Promotes deep cleansing of the entire gastrointestinal tract.
- Clears liver congestion, improving metabolism and fat digestion.
- Detoxifies the body, especially in cases of Pitta dosha accumulation.
- Assists in managing diabetes, heart diseases, and gynaecological disorders.
- Supports weight loss by eliminating toxins and mucus from the small intestine.
- Flushes out toxins and excess mucus from the gastrointestinal tract, enhancing digestion.
- Alleviates gastrointestinal disorders, including constipation, piles, acidity, ulcers, and inflammation.
Further Read: Panchakarma: Know Everything About the Benefits of this Ayurvedic Approach
Conclusion
Virechana therapy is a beneficial Panchakarma treatment in Ayurveda that helps in cleansing the digestive system. It involves controlled purgation for a specific amount of time to flush out body toxins and balance Pitta dosha. The therapy helps in deep cleaning of the whole gastrointestinal tract and flushes out toxins and excess mucus from the small intestine, improving digestion. Virechana therapy supports the digestive fire (Agni) and improves metabolism. The evaluation of Virechana in Ayurveda is based on various parameters like cleansing, the number of times stool passed the quantity of stool, symptoms-based assessment, and assessment of ending of purgation. Virechana therapy is a personalised treatment that addresses specific health concerns, including excess Pitta, skin disorders, and digestive issues. Overall, Virechana therapy is a natural path to healing that combines ancient wisdom with exceptional care.
If you’re considering Virechana therapy, feel free to contact us today. Or you can also drop us an email at reservations@fazlaninaturesnest.com, or simply give us a call at 7700070070 to book your personalised retreat. We’re here to assist you in every step of your journey towards Virechana therapy.
