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Once the three steps of Poorvakarma are completed,
the Pradhankarma commences. The procedures of Pradhankarma
are given here in the order that they are typically performed.
However, every patient may not need to undergo each of the
procedures listed here.
The Herbal Purification (Vamana), is the process of controlled
vomiting induced by herbs or drugs. It is the first main purification
therapy and is of functional importance to the entire scheme
of Panchakarma. The patient is given warm milk, licorice tea,
sugar water or butter milk to drink, after which an emetic
is administered to induce vomiting. Vamana purges excess mucus
(Kapha) from the body, purifies the body fluids and helps
to cure asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, skin diseases, and
obesity.
The Drug Induced Purgation (Virechana), is the controlled
process of excreting solid wastes from the body. Bowel movements
are induced by a herbal or drug laxative. Virechana eradicates
disease of the blood, rejuvenates the tissues and organs of
the abdomen, improves skin condition and increases immunity.
The Medicated Enema (Basti), is universally regarded as the
most important Panchakarma procedure.The liquid used for the
Basti is either water-based (Niruha and Asthapan Bastis) or
oil-based (Anuvasana and Sneha Bastis). Additional elements
include herbs, salts, wines, yogurt, and honey. Enemas are
applied to the rectum, vagina, uretha, or to the cavity of
a wound. Basti serves to lubricate the system and alleviate
dryness caused by an excess of Vata (air).
The Nasal Cleansing (Nasya Karma), involves the cleansing
of the nasal passage by the administration of oils, pastes,
powders, plant juices, infusions or smoke. In case of liquids,
the head is tilted back and the liquid is put into the nostrils.
Powders and pastes are applied by hand or with a special apparatus,
while smoke is inhaled. Nasya can prevent diseases of the
ear, nose, throat, and head, as well as strengthen hair and
improve mental functions.
Blood Letting (Rakta Mokshana), must be performed and controlled
by a licensed physician. Blood-letting stimulates the production
of anti-oxidants and pro-immune substances that deactivate
or destroy toxins. Blood-letting can assuage eye diseases,
headaches, tumors, depression, tremors, gout, and other ailments.
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