Virechan is one among the five therapeutic procedures of panchakarma. It is a medicated purgation therapy which cleanses the gastro-intestinal tract, liver and gall bladder from toxins. It also removes toxins and purifies the blood. Virechan is mainly indicated for the disorders related to pitta. It pacifies the pitta dosha and thus its disorders. It can be adopted as a preventive procedure in sharad (Autumn) season as it is the season of aggravation of the pitta dosha.
Procedure:
- Body Preparation
The process starts with applying medicated oil on the body (Abhyanga) and giving steam (Swedana) to loosen toxins. - Drinking Medicated Ghee
For a few days, the patient drinks a small amount of medicated ghee. This helps bring the toxins into the stomach and intestines. - Purgation (Virechana)
A herbal medicine is given to cause controlled motions (loose stools) that help flush out toxins, especially excess Pitta. - Post-Care (Diet and Rest)
A light, easy-to-digest diet is followed for a few days. This helps the digestive system regain strength and balance
Benefits:
1) Detoxification of the toxins from the body and thus promotes good health.
2) Detoxify the toxins from the liver and hence regulates proper metabolism.
3) Beneficial in skin disorders, urticarial rashes, allergies.
4) In case of Gout, rheumatism, purgation is classically said to be the best.
5) Mainly relieves gastro-intestinal disorders.
6) Reduces weight by removing toxins from the body.
Indication:
1) Rheumatic arthritis
2) Gout
3) Obesity
4) Chronic asthma
5) Cardiac disorders
6) Tumors growth
7) Jaundice
8) Gall stone
9) Spleen disorders
10) Eczema, psoriasis
11) Hypersensitivity
12) Urinary retention
Contra –indication:
Person suffering from fissures, ano-rectal bleeding, fever, immunocompromised patients, weak persons, pregnant women, age below 15 years and old age people are contra-indicated for virechan.