VAMANAKARMA: AN ANCIENT AYURVEDIC CLEANSING THERAPY

Suraj S, Giri D*, Thakre A, Chaudhary G

Meghe Ayurved Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT

‘Charaka Samhita’ an ancient text of Ayurveda emphasizes the cleansing of the body through Panchakarma. Today’s generation is out of touch with nature. Poor dietary habits, fast foods, no proper exercise regimen, stress and strain of daily life to compete and survive- these patterns have led to a lot of hormonal changes, and the agents that regulate the body’s mechanism have become poor leading to the spread of toxins throughout the body causing various diseases. As per Ayurveda, these toxins are called “ama”. This foul-smelling, sticky, harmful fluid needs to be completely removed from the body. This is done through Panchkarma, which is advised quarterly, half-yearly, or yearly to get rid of the toxins from the body and also to provide protection from different diseases. This process has twofold benefits – cleansing of the body and also rejuvenation, thus giving a youthful appearance to the body. Panchakarma includes five methods through which the body is detoxified –Procedure of Vamana (induced vomiting), Procedure of Virechana (induced purgation), Basti (enema), Nasya(nasal application), Rakthamokshanana (bloodletting). The three Doshas(vital physiological factors according to Ayurveda) in the human body that is - Vata, Pita, and Kapha are balanced, leading to good physical health and mental balance. Vamanaprocedure means induction of emesis. Through this procedure, the toxins are removed from the body especially through the upper body parts. Vamanaisthe best remedy for Kapha-related diseases. Most of the diseases today are due to improper digestion and metabolism (Agni). The cause is the changing lifestyle full of stress and anxiety. Irregular dietary habits add further to these issues. Diseases need to be uprooted from the base. Therapies like Panchkarma or particular therapy as VamanaKarma for particular Doshas like Kapha can be thought of on a regular basis as a remedy.

Keywords:

Ayurveda, Vamana, Kapha, Panchakarma, health, detoxified, rejuvenation