Deepana & Pachana Karma – Awakening Digestive Fire
What Is Deepana & Pachana?
Deepana and Pachana are essential preparatory therapies in the Purvakarma stage of Panchakarma, aimed at igniting the digestive fire (Agni) and eliminating metabolic toxins (Ama). This step ensures the body is ready for deeper detoxification procedures like Vamana, Virechana, or Basti.
Deepana: Herbal formulations that stimulate the appetite and enhance digestive power.
Pachana: Specific herbs and decoctions that help in breaking down and removing existing toxins without aggravating doshas.
These therapies restore the clarity and strength of Agni, laying the foundation for effective Ayurvedic treatment.
When Is It Needed?
Deepana-Pachana is recommended before any Panchakarma treatment and in chronic conditions where signs of Ama (toxins) are present:
Poor appetite
Bloating, indigestion
Coated tongue
Heaviness or lethargy
Sluggish metabolism
How Does It Work?
Day 1–2: Light Sattvic diet + Pachana herbs (e.g., Trikatu, Chitrakadi Vati)
Day 3–5: Addition of Deepana herbs to enhance Agni (e.g., Jeeraka, Pippali)
Monitoring: Physicians observe signs like improved appetite, clearer tongue, and increased energy.
Once signs of Nirama state (toxin-free) appear, the body is ready for Snehana (oleation) and further cleansing.
Herbs Commonly Used
Deepana: Pippali, Maricha, Jeeraka, Chitraka
Pachana: Trikatu, Shunthi, Ajmoda, Hingvastaka
All formulations are customized according to your dosha imbalance (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).
What to Expect
A course lasting between 3–7 days
Increased appetite and lightness in the body
Mild sweating, detoxifying bowel movements
Greater readiness for further Panchakarma steps
Aftercare (Samsarjana Krama)
Post-Pachana, patients may be advised a light diet (Peya, Yavagu, Manda) to gradually rebuild digestion and maintain the balance achieved. Click here to learn more about Samsarjana Karma
FAQs
Q: Can I do Deepana & Pachana at home?
A: While some herbs may be home-used, physician supervision ensures dosage, duration, and effectiveness.
Q: Are there any side effects?
A: When administered by a qualified Vaidya, the therapies are safe and well-tolerated.
Q: How do I know if I have Ama (toxins)?
A: Symptoms like indigestion, coated tongue, and mental fog are key indicators. Our doctors conduct a detailed pulse and symptom diagnosis.
Ready to Begin Your Detox Journey?
📞 Call us to schedule a consultation with our expert Vaidyas
📍 Visit Arogya Ayu, Hospital of Ayurveda, to begin your customized detox plan
