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Virechana : A Detoxifying Journey
Introduction
Virechana, also known as purgation, is a vital Ayurvedic therapy aimed at purging accumulated toxins from the digestive tract, particularly the small intestine. This procedure primarily targets the elimination of Pitta and Kapha doshas, facilitating balance and harmony within the body.
Benefits
- Enhances appetite, digestion, and nutrient assimilation.
- Promotes mental clarity and cognitive function.
- Highly effective in addressing Pitta and Kapha-related imbalances.
Procedure
- Preparation:
- Special pre-treatment meals are provided to stimulate gut acid secretion.
- Treatment Day:
- Begins with external therapies like oil massage and steam at 7:30 am.
- Oral medication for purgation is administered by therapists or doctors immediately after external treatments.
- No other medications or breakfast are provided on the day of virechana.
- Expect frequent bowel movements, occurring every 15 to 60 minutes.
- In case of unsatisfactory purgation, a therapeutic enema may be administered later in the day or the virechana process may be repeated the following day.
Substances Used in Virechana
- Triphala
- Aloe Vera
- Castor oil
- Senna
- Black Sesame Seeds
- Psyllium Seeds
- Salt
- Flaxseeds
- Dandelion root
- Prunes
- Croton seed
- Raisins
- Yellow Thistle
- Bran
- Kutki
- Cow’s milk and urine
- Mango juice
Indications
- Pitta-related disorders
- Skin ailments
- Chronic fever
- Hemorrhoids
- Abdominal tumors
- Enlarged spleen or liver
- Jaundice
- Worm infestations
- Gout
- Glaucoma
- Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
Contraindications
- Children and elderly individuals
- Acute fever
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Weakness or debility
- Rectal or pulmonary bleeding
- Excessive oleation or sudation
- Foreign body ingestion
- Post-vamana or basti therapy
- Low digestive fire
- Rectal prolapse
- Severe constipation or ulcerative colitis
Do's
- Stay hydrated by consuming water as per the physician’s instructions.
- Rest in your room and engage in light walking activities.
- Communicate your progress to the physician.
- Rice water and porridge are provided for nourishment as needed.
- Report any delays in purgation to the physician.
- Take complete rest post-treatment.
- Observe and report stool characteristics to the physician.
Don'ts
- Avoid delaying bowel movements; respond promptly to urges.
- Refrain from eating until the purgation process is complete.
- Strictly adhere to dietary recommendations provided by the physician.
- Maintain a calm and relaxed demeanor throughout the procedure.
- Remain within your room for the entire day.
- Avoid strenuous activities and follow general guidelines.
