Dhara
Dr. Suraj Mirashi explains that Dhara is an Ayurvedic treatment method, which includes the application of a continuous stream of mildly warm oil to the body parts. Dhara treatment is mostly given to the head but also to different parts of the body too. The name of Dhara varies with the kind of material (mostly oil) used for the Dhara Therapy.
SHIRODHARA (OIL)
Dr. Suraj Mirashi shares his knowledge of Shirodhara saying that it is a form of Ayurveda medicine that involves gently pouring liquids over the forehead (the 'third eye'). It was developed by vaidyas (practitioners of Ayurveda) in Kerala, India for use in sukhachikitsa (restorative therapy) and can be one of the steps involved in Panchakarma. The name comes from the Sanskrit words Shiras 'head' and Dhara 'flow'. The liquids used in shirodhara depend on what is being treated, but can include oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water, or even plain water. Shirodhara has been used to treat a variety of conditions including eye diseases, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, graying of hair, neurological disorders, memory loss, insomnia, hearing impairment, tinnitus, vertigo and certain types of skin diseases like psoriasis. It is also used non-medicinally at spas for its relaxing properties.
EKANGADHARA (Warm Oil on local part of the body)
Ekangadhara means a single flow of Oil. Pouring of medicated oils, ghee, emulsions, marrow, animal & vegetable fats on any single part of affected body part. Medicinal fluids are poured over the affected part of the body. The duration is about 30 minutes. Dr. Suraj mentions that this is done for upper and lower extremities.
SARVANGADHARA (Oil on whole body)
Sarvangadhara is also called as pizhichil which means in plain English, “Oil on whole Body”. This type of ayurveda massage, according to Dr. Suraj gives attention to all parts of the body except the head. Massage therapists pour the medicated oil on the body and massage it simultaneously. This treatment is prescribed not only for vata disorder but also for many disorders like diabetes, blood pressure, fits, convulsions, paralysis, arthritis, nervous weakness etc. it is most effective for asthma and even in tuberculosis in early stages.
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