SWEDANA

Swedana is derived from Sanskrit word swid which means to perspire. It is also called as steam therapy. It is a pre-procedure for panchakarma therapies where the aim is to dilate the channels of the body to detach the toxins from the tissues. It is a process where sweat is induced with the help of steam generated from medicated herbal decoctions  Firstly, oil is applied over the body. Herbs depending upon the condition of the person and predominance of the dosha are selected and are kept in a vessel for the generation of the steam. While giving steam, the head and eyes of the patient are covered using wet cotton pads in order to protect them from over heat. Treatment is continued till the abdomen and forehead sweat very well which is usually attained within 15-20 minutes. After the completion of the procedure and attainment of the required characteristics, the patient is advised to take shower with hot water. After an hour of the therapy the patient is given light, warm and unctuous food to eat.