Shirodhara is a highly effective therapy that is part of the Panchakarma detox treatment. The word combines 2 Sanskrit words: ‘Shiro’ – head, and ‘dhara’ – flow. This method refers to the pouring of a warm liquid (usually medicated oil) on your forehead. It is one of the Panchakarma therapies practised at Mountain Top Clinic, one of the best Ayurvedic clinics in India. The therapy addresses many health concerns, especially neurological disorders.
This highly specialised therapy should only be performed by experienced and qualified therapists at an Ayurvedic clinic.
Diving into Shirodhara Panchakarma Detox Therapy
Ayurvedic Panchakarma treatment aims to remove toxins and rejuvenate the mind and body. Shirodhara therapy pacifies and revitalises your mind and body.
You can only undergo this therapy if a doctor prescribes it to you. Do not try this at home.
How does Shirodhara therapy work?
- This is a massage technique that requires you to lie down on your back.
- Medicated oil placed in a bowl about 10–15 cm over your head will steadily trickle down your forehead and gradually reach your scalp.
- This will be followed by a gentle massage to help your scalp soak up the oil.
- An expert therapist will perform the therapy and will be monitoring the procedure.
- The therapy duration may be around 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Safety measures
- People who have sensitive skin, allergies, open wounds, neck injuries or skin conditions should avoid this therapy.
Pregnant women should also avoid this therapy, unless recommended by a doctor.
What varieties of oils are used for Shirodhara therapy?
Sesame oil, coconut oil and ghee are some of the popular oils used for therapy at the best Ayurvedic clinics. Although oil is usually what is used for this therapy, other liquids may be used depending upon the health condition being treated.
Apart from oils, milk, milk-based concoctions, water and coconut water are also used. Another popular practice is to use a mixture of different oils. However, the liquid used is always infused with specific herbs to enhance its potency.
Shirodhara therapy: What are the variants?
There are different variations of Shirodhara therapy. Some popular variations are-
- Taila Dhara: Involves the application of medicated oil
- Takra Dhara: Involves the application of herbs-infused buttermilk
- Ksheerdhara: Involves the application of herbs-infused milk
- Jala Dhara: Involves the application of coconut water
This therapy stimulates the ‘maha-marma’ point on your forehead, which is also called the ‘Third-Eye’ Chakra. It elevates your sense of awareness and helps you connect with your inner self by strengthening this Chakra.
Which disorders can get treated by Shirodhara therapy?
This Panchakarma detox treatment therapy addresses both physical and mental health concerns such as:
- Neurological disorders
- Allergic rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Psoriasis
- Insomnia
What are the benefits to expect?
The Shirodhara therapy has a host of health benefits to offer. The main benefits are listed below.
A remedy for Vata Dosha imbalance
To learn about the three doshas, do check out our blog. https://mountaintopclinic.com/all-about-tri-dosha-learn-your-tri-dosha-personality/
An imbalanced Vata dosha may affect your attention and memory and cause restlessness. However, Shirodhara therapy can be effective in addressing these issues. It has a pacifying and soothing effect. The steady pouring of the oil on your forehead will revitalise your mind, relax your nerves and stimulate your brain. Visit an Ayurvedic wellness centre for this therapy.
A remedy for insomnia
Shirodhara therapy can be an excellent remedy for those suffering from insomnia. The therapy soothes your mind and also reduces Cortisol, the stress hormone. Research has shown the effectiveness of the Shirodhara technique in inducing sleep as the dripping of warm oil stimulates the pineal gland and helps regulate the hormone melatonin, which is responsible for helping you to fall asleep. The gentle head massage that follows also enhances your sleep quality.
A remedy for stress
Stress can harm your physical and mental health. Shirodhara therapy is an excellent Ayurvedic Panchakarma treatment that reduces the stress levels in your body. The therapy produces a relaxing effect on the body and keeps stress at bay.
A remedy for poor vision and headaches
If you are suffering from chronic headaches and migraines, Shirodhara Panchakarma detox treatment may help. The herb-infused liquids applied during the procedure contain anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe irritated blood vessels. It also enhances blood circulation and provides relief. The therapy also helps you combat vision problems by stimulating the eye muscles. Shirodhara therapy is a powerful Panchakarma therapy that may be a part of a Panchakarma detox procedure or can be used as a stand-alone therapy. It will stimulate your marma points (Chakras or energy centres) and rejuvenate you. Reach out to the Mountain Top Clinic, the best Ayurvedic hospital for this therapy.
