Dhara is the continuous flow of medicated oil/decoction/milk/ghee/other liquids on a part/whole body. It is a type of Drava Sweda (liquid fomentation) as it brings perspiration (sweating) to body. When the medicine used is Kashaya or herbal decoction, the procedure is termed as Kashayadhara. Based on the part of body used it can be classified as Ekangadhara (on a part of body), Sarvangadhara (whole body), Sirodhara (on forehead).
Procedure:
Patient is made to sit on a chair. Thalam (herbal powder or oil) is applied to the bregma region of head. Initially a head and shoulder massage is performed by the therapist sitting on the chair followed by an abhyanga(oil massage) after making the patient to lie on the pathi(massage table). A ear plug made of cotton piece is kept such that the herbal decoction does not enter the ears. Required quantity of medicine is heated and the temperature is checked by the therapist using the dorsum of their hands. After this, the two therapists will stand on either sides of the table and pour the herbal decoction in a continuous stream over the body at a uniform height of 12 angula (6-9 inches). The procedure is carried out in 7 positions- sitting, supine, right lateral, supine, left lateral, supine and sitting. The medicine flowing out will be collected and reheated by the therapist. The duration of the treatment will be approximately 45 minutes.
Post Procedure:
After the Kashayadhara, the medicine is wiped out well from the body, and is made to take a warm water shower. Afterwards, a thalam or herbal powder is applied on the bregma area of forehead to regulate the body temperature. A glass of warm herbal water will also be provided to drink, which is good for calming the body
Medicines used:
The medicine taken for the preparation of the herbal decoction is decided by the concerned physician based on the health condition of each individual. Some of the medicines used are Dasamoolam kashayam, Nalpamaradi kashayam, Triphala kashayam etc.
Advantages of Kashaya Dhara:
Dhara is used in acute conditions like pain, inflammation, also as rejuvenative or curative therapy (in healthy or diseased person). It increases metabolism (Agni/digestive fire), enhances circulation, stability and stamina of body and also improves the clarity of senses. It is highly effective in stiffness of body, fractures and also reduces burning sensation.
Complications and Management:
During Kashayadhara, patient may experience cold, fever, headache, tiredness.
Symptoms and conditions will be managed accordingly by physician.
