Pizhichil or Kayaseka is a variety of drava sweda (liquid sudation) in which the warmed oil is poured from a specific height (6 to 9 inches ) to all over the body/ specific part for a stipulated period, in a specific manner. When warm medicated oil is poured on the body, it produces perspiration on the diseased parts. Hence, it has the advantage of producing snehana(oleation) & swedana(sudation) simultaneously.
Pizhichil is a modified form of kayaseka developed by ancient Keraleeya Vaidyas & extensively practiced in Kerala since ages. It is a rejuvenating procedure as well as a curative programme. It can be performed locally to a particular part of the body or whole body.
Indication:
Pizhichil can be administered on those afflicted with Vatha and its associated diseases, in post traumatic conditions, post fracture stiffness, in neurodegenerative diseases, osteoarthritis, low back ache, arthritis, sciatica, stroke/ Hemiplegia, in various neuromuscular disorders and as a rejuvenation therapy.
Contraindication:
Udwarttana should be avoided for those affected with gastrointestinal problems, diarrhea, painful inflammatory conditions, respiratory disorders like- cough, breathing difficulty, infections.
Benefits and Effects:
Udwarttana provides stability of tissues and organs, nourishment to whole body, stabilizes the body especially in post-traumatic conditions, in infectious conditions, provides rejuvenate benefits, improves the functions of the sense organs, corrects metabolism and delays aging.
Procedure:
The medicated oil is heated in a hot water bath. The temperature of oil is maintained around 40°C. The cotton cloth is dipped in warm oil and squeezed and poured with one hand of the masseur. The oil is poured in a uniform stream from the thumb facing downwards from a height of 6 to 9 inches and a gentle massage is given. It is done in 7 positions- Sitting, Supine, Right lateral, Supine, left lateral, supine, Sitting. Prone position can be adopted if necessary. It is desirable to use fresh oil daily.
Quantity of oil: 3 liters /day
Precautions:
Temperature should be maintained at the same level throughout the procedure. Stream of oil should be uniform and continuous.
