Shirodhara Shirodhara is an ayurvedic procedure and forms an

important part of the detox therapy for removal of toxins from our mind. Keeping our mind healthy is essentially important for prevention of any disease. Also mental relaxation is needed to cure any disease pathology. As ayurveda has given equal importance to mental health , this therapy focusing on the psychological well-being forms an important part of detox therapy.

The word shirodhara literally means Shira- head Dhara-stream

It is the process of pouring a stream of warm liquids over the forehead of person. Most commonly oils are used for this purpose. It is done for fomentation of head region to provide complete mental relaxation

When to go for shirodharaShirodhara is essential in following conditions

Hair fall Graying of hairImproper visionHypertensionAnxietyDepressionIrritability Loss of sleepParalysisHeadcahe

ProcedureThe patient is made to lie

down on a table with his palms facing up. Massage is done over head with medicated oils and then the stream of desired liquids is allowed to flow over the forehead of patient . This session can last for about 1/2 -1 hr. This procedure is done in a calm room with soft music, candles, flowers for complete relaxation of mind.

Medicines in shirodharaMost commonly medicated oils are used for shirodhara

but it can also be given with decoctions , milk, buttermilk etc.

Medicines in shirodhara as per dosha

Tila oil and ghee processed with herbs pacifying the respective doshas can also be used

Dosha Medicine

Vata Tila oil

Pitta Ghee

Kapha Tila oil

Formulations for shirodharaJatamansi taila- useful in hypertension, loss of sleep

and other nervous disordersBala taila – used in cases of chronic headache due to

aggravated vata doshaBhringaraj taila – useful in premature graying of hair,

hairfall etc. Takra – use of buttermilk for mental relaxationChandanadi taila- useful in chronic cases of fever,

headache and burning sensation due to pitta dosha