| Swedan Karma
(fomentation therapy) is one of the three preparatory procedures,
which is employed before starting any of the five cleansing
procedures. Swedan Karma or diaphoresis is advocated only
after employing proper oleation. A person undergoing this
therapy is given heat either by using a decoction of medicinal
herbs or by applying indirect heat to the body, in the form
of warm clothing or keeping the patient in a warm cabin or
partially open box. Properly employed fomentation softens
and melts the body toxins so as to efficiently expel these
with the assistance of the main purification procedures.
Types of Diaphoresis
Diaphoresis is divided into
following main types
- Thermal (Saagni) and non-thermal (Niragni)
- Smooth (Singdha) and dry (Ruksha)
- Mild (Mrudu), moderate (Madhyam) and Strong (Tikshna)
- Local (Ekanga) and whole body (Sarvanga)
Indications
Persons who
suffer from coryza, asthma, cough, hiccoughs, earache, headache,
pharyngitis, paraplegia, hemiplegia, arthritis, facial paralysis,
sciatica, backache, joint disorders, edema, constipation,
urinary obstruction, and spasmodic pains, etc. are given hot
fomentation.
Contraindications
Alcoholics,
pregnant woman, malnourished persons, diabetics, persons suffering
from liver diseases, persons having cataract, and very young
and very old patients should not be given diaphoresis.
Procedure
As per the severity
and site of the disease, the type of diaphoresis is advocated.
External oleation therapy or massage is mandatory before a
patient is given diaphoresis. Diaphoresis is given by various
methods. Local diaphoresis is given by applying a poultice
(paste) of medicinal herbs or by kettle steam diaphoresis.
In chronic diseases, whole body diaphoresis is given either
by giving steam bath of medicated decoctions, or by making
the patient lie down on a specially designed table.
Special precautions
Very mild diaphoresis
should be employed to the delicate parts like testes, eyes
or heart, for a very short time. Also, blood pressure, pulse
and respiration chart is maintained. Precautionary measures
should be taken to overcome any dehydration caused by excessive
perspiration.
Signs and symptoms of patient having proper diaphoresis
- Patient feels cool due to excessive perspiration.
- Pain is subsided.
- Joints and body stiffness is reduced, making all
the body movements more flexible.
Complications of improper diaphoresis
- Coma, giddiness and weakness.
- Excessive thirst and dehydration.
- Burning sensation of the body.
Functions of Diaphoresis
Body flexibility
is increased after oleation and diaphoresis treatment, and
helps in eliminating the toxins completely. Swedan benefits
the patient by relieving him of stiffness and pain.
Post Fomentation Regimen
Immediately
after completing fomentation therapy, it is advisable to rest,
avoid exposure to the cold, bathe in warm water, and rest
in adequate fresh air. Liquids and easily digestible food
should be consumed in moderate amount. If induced emesis has
been recommended, it should be done the following morning.
If purgation is required, it should be done two days after
the fomentation is completed. Nasal cleansing, a medicated
colon therapy or bloodletting can be done immediately after
fomentation.
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