Udvarthanam
Udvarthanam (Udwarthana) is a therapeutic Ayurvedic procedure involving the application of herbal powders to the body, rubbed in the opposite direction of body hair growth. The term itself comes from two words: ud meaning upwards, and varthanam meaning stroke, indicating the opposite direction of massage. This practice is an important part of Ayurvedic treatments for various health conditions, including skin care and obesity
Types of Udvarthanam:
- Udgharshanam:
This involves rubbing dry herbal powder in the opposite direction of body hair without the addition of oils or liquids. It is primarily used to mobilize fat, decrease kapha and kleda (water retention), and enhance circulation.
Utsadana:
Here, herbal powders are mixed with oils or other liquid substances to form a paste. The paste is then rubbed in the same manner as Udgharshanam, but this variant is more focused on improving skin complexion, promoting beauty, and cleansing the body.
Synonyms:
- Udwarthanam
- Shareera Parimaarjjana (meaning cleansing of the body)
Benefits of Udvarthanam:
- Reduces kapha and vata
- Mobilizes fat
- Improves muscle tone and stability: Enhances overall body stability and muscle strength.
- Promotes skin health: Results in smoother, healthier skin, with improved appearance and luster.
- Induces a feeling of lightness: The procedure helps to balance the body, leaving you feeling energized and light.
- Alleviates itching: Helps in reducing skin irritations and itching.
- Reduces drowsiness: Provides a rejuvenating effect, boosting alertness.
- Improves circulation: The massage enhances blood flow, supporting overall health.
- Cleanses the body: Helps detoxify and clear out accumulated toxins.
- Eliminates body odor: Helps to reduce foul smells from the body, providing freshness.
Therapeutic Uses:
Udvarthanam is recommended for a variety of conditions, such as:
- Obesity
- Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol)
- Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy
- Psoriasis and other skin ailments
- Metabolic syndrome
- Insomnia
- Hypothyroidism
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Menstrual disorders
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Muscular dystrophy
Procedure:
- Purvakarma (Pre-Procedural Routine): The patient is made to lie down droni. If snigdha (unctuous) udwarthana is recommended, the body is first massaged with the prescribed oil.
- Pradhana Karma (Main Procedure): The main procedure involves applying herbal powders in a synchronized manner, rubbing them in the opposite direction of body hair. The entire body is massaged, and specific areas may receive additional attention, depending on the individual’s health needs.
- Paschat Karma (Post-Procedural Measures):
After the procedure, the patient is advised to rest for 15 minutes, allowing the effects of the treatment to settle. A shower is recommended after 1 hour to cleanse the body of the excess herbs and oils.
Snigdha(Unctuous) Udwarthana is maily indicated in lean patients Due to mechanical force applied during rubbing or due to deep pressure of udvarthanam there is increase in circulation in the superficial vein and lymphatic channels there by improving the drainage.
The alternate pressure and relaxation brings fresh blood to that part. It rises temperature locally, increases secretion, circulation and absorption of nutrients and elimination of the waste products. Rubbing is a passive exercise it also stimulates both motor and sensory nerve endings to various parts of the body.