panchakarma

Panchakarma is a classical set of five therapeutic procedures in Ayurveda designed to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins (ama) and rebalance the three doshas—Vata, Kapha, and Pitta. It is commonly incorporated into a broader healing plan that also includes herbal remedies, diet, and daily routines.

Originating in ancient Indian medical literature, Panchakarma is described in texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Today it is practiced in traditional Ayurvedic clinics in India and worldwide, with procedures customized to an individual's constitution and current health state.

The five therapies — Vamana (therapeutic emesis), Virechana (therapeutic purgation), Nasya (nasal administration of medicinal substances), Basti (medicated enema), and Raktamoksha (bloodletting) — form the core. Preparatory procedures (Purva Karma) such as Snehana (oil or ghee oleation) and Swedana (thermally induced sweating) loosen toxins, followed by the main therapies (Pradhana Karma) and a concluding phase (Paschat Karma) of rest, diet, and gradual reintroduction of normal activities.

Panchakarma is typically administered under the supervision of trained Ayurvedic practitioners in specialized clinics. It is not universally suitable; contraindications include pregnancy, severe illness, very old age or extreme debility, and certain conditions where cleansing could pose risks. Potential side effects include dehydration or electrolyte imbalance if not properly managed.