Thakradhara
Takradhara: A Comprehensive Overview
Takradhara is a therapeutic Ayurvedic procedure that combines two words: Takra, meaning buttermilk, and Dhara, meaning the continuous stream or pouring. In this procedure, medicated buttermilk is gently poured over the body in a continuous stream. The application can vary depending on the treatment area and technique used:
- Shirodhara: Medicated buttermilk is dripped specifically onto the forehead.
- Sarvanga Dhara: Medicated buttermilk is poured over the entire body.
- Sthanika Dhara: Medicated buttermilk is poured over a localized area of the body.
The liquid is typically poured from a height of about 4 angula for Shirodhara, while for Sarvanga Dhara and Sthanika Dhara, it is poured from a height of 12 angula.
Benefits and Therapeutic Indications of Takradhara:
Takradhara is known to provide numerous therapeutic benefits and is particularly effective in treating various physical and mental health conditions:
- Greying of hair
- Fatigue and stress
- Headaches and migraines
- Pricking pain in the palms and feet
- Joint laxity and weakness
- Head disorders
- Ear disorders
- Eye conditions
- Psoriasis
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia
- Psychosomatic disorders
- Hypertension
- Dandruff
Procedure
- Purvakarma (Pre-Procedural Routine):
- If the procedure is to be performed as Shirodhara the patient is prepared accordingly. If the application involves the whole body (Sarvanga Dhara), the patient is made to sit in a comfortable position with their legs extended.
- If indicated for Abhyanga (medicated oil massage) it is carried out prior to the Takradhara procedure.
- Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure):
- For Shirodhara, the medicated buttermilk is gently dripped onto the forehead from a height of 4 angula, with a rhythmic to-and-fro motion for 30 to 45 minutes.
- For Sarvanga Dhara, the medicated buttermilk is poured in a synchronized, rhythmic manner over the entire body. This is accompanied by gentle hand strokes to enhance relaxation and absorption.
- Paschat Karma (Post-Procedural Measures):
- Following Shirodhara, the patient’s head is washed with a decoction made from Amla (Indian gooseberry) and then wiped clean with a fresh towel. A paste of Rasnadi Churna (a herbal powder) is then applied to the crown of the head.
In the case of Sarvanga Dhara, the patient is asked to rest for 48 minutes before showering, allowing the therapeutic effects to settle in.