Thalapothichil and Shirovasti in Ayurveda
Thalapothichil
Thalapothichil is a therapeutic way of using herbal paste on the head. Thalapothichil also called Shirolepa (head pack) is the customary Ayurveda treatment used in different psychosomatic issues whereas fundamentally Thalapothichil is a cooling treatment. Thalapothichil primarily targets the head and scalp region, offering a combination of physical and mental benefits. The warm herbal paste and oil used in the treatment penetrate the scalp, nourishing the hair follicles and promoting hair growth. Meanwhile, the rhythmic flow of oil on the forehead induces a state of deep relaxation, calming the mind and reducing stress and anxiety.
Procedure
The patient is made to sit in a simple position. After application of herbal oil on the scalp. The paste is applied over the scalp in a layer of thickness of around 0.5 to 1 centimeter. Herbal oil filled in this depression. The paste is then covered with leaves and fabric leaving the score open. Toward the finish of the technique the paste is taken out; a delicate head massage is repeated.
Duration of treatment: 45 mins
Benefits of Thalapothichil:
- Managing irregularity of pitta Dosha.
- Eases pressure, strain, and weight of the head.
- Further develops memory.
- Unwinds relax and quiets down the brain; soothing effect all over the body.
- Enacts the Marma (imperative regions) focuses.
- Helps in achieving hormonal balance.
- Remedy to Hair and scalp issues.
Indications:
- Sleeping disorder, insomnia.
- Headaches and migraine.
- Certain skin infections of the scalp like dermatitis of the scalp, dandruff, and balding.
- Untimely turning gray of hair.
- Management of Neurological conditions, Anxiety, stress.
Shirovasti
Shirovasthi is the procedure where the medicated oil is retained on the head for a prescribed period. It focused on the head and neck region, particularly targeting disorders related to the nervous system, scalp, and hair. This therapeutic procedure involves the retention of medicated oils or herbal preparations within a cap placed over the head for a specific duration. It’s
Duration of treatment: 60 minutes
Indications
- Dryness and itching of the scalp
- Hair fall and dandruff b
- Scalp eczema
- Migraine
- ENT diseases
- Certain skin conditions of the scalp
- Burning sensation on the head
- Condition involving head
- Facial paralysis
- Diseases of the eye due to weakness of nerves
- Insanity and other mental disorder
Therapeutic Focus on the Head and Neck:
Shirovasti primarily targets the head and neck area, offering therapeutic benefits for various conditions affecting these regions. It is particularly beneficial for neurological disorders, scalp issues, hair problems, and conditions related to the senses, such as hearing and vision.
Preparation and Customization:
Before undergoing Shirovasti, the individual’s Ayurvedic practitioner assesses their specific health concerns, constitution, and any underlying imbalances. Based on this assessment, a personalized treatment plan is devised, and appropriate medicated oils or herbal preparations are selected for the procedure.
Procedure:
- The Shirovasti procedure typically begins with the patient comfortably seated or lying down on a treatment table. A cap, known as a “vasti cap,” is then placed securely over the head, forming a reservoir to contain the medicated oil or herbal preparation.
- Warm medicated oil or herbal decoction is poured into the cap, ensuring it covers the entire scalp and hair. The cap is sealed to prevent leakage, and the oil or decoction is retained within it for a specified duration, usually ranging from 30 to 60 minutes.
- During this time, the patient may receive gentle massage or other therapeutic techniques to enhance relaxation and promote the absorption of the medicated oil or decoction into the scalp and hair follicles.
Shirovasti is a highly effective Ayurvedic therapy for promoting head and neck health, alleviating various disorders, and supporting overall well-being. By providing nourishment, relaxation, and rejuvenation to the scalp, hair, and nervous system, it offers individuals a natural and holistic approach to maintaining optimal health and vitality in the head and neck region.
