Panchakarma

The Five Procedures of Cleansing

The Sanskrit word Panchakarma means ‘five actions.’ It refers to the five procedures used to mobilize Ama (toxins) that are stuck inside the tissues, and to pull them out of the body through the orifice closest to where the toxins are located, whether it’s the anus, nostrils, mouth, or skin pores. The ancient Ayurvedic texts mentioned these five primary methods of elimination:

Nasya | oiling of nostrils

In case of excess phlegm in the sinuses, Nasyam, or oleation of the nostrils, is administered to evacuate mucus and clear up the head region.

Virechana | purgation

If excess heat accumulates in the small intestine or the liver, Virechana, or purgation of these hot toxins, is administered using herbal laxatives.

Vaman | therapeutic vomiting

Suppose food buildup is present in the upper part of the digestive tract and unable to move down. In that case, Vamana or induced vomiting using herbs is administered to eliminate the stagnant food particles through the mouth.

Basti | oil enema

If excess wind is present in the pelvic region and colon, Basti or oil enema is ascribed to eliminate these toxins through the anus.

Raktamoksha | bloodletting

In case of excess heat in the blood, Raktamokshana, or bloodletting using leeches, is administered to aerate and lighten up the slimy and viscous consistency of hot blood.

These procedures should be done by a qualified practitioner who can identify the aggravated Dosha and prescribe the correct treatment and herbs.