What are the 3 major divisions of Panchakarma?

Panchakarma is a Sanskrit term that translates to “five actions” or “five treatments.” It is a traditional Ayurvedic system of cleansing and rejuvenation that is designed to promote overall health and wellbeing. The five main treatments of panchakarma are known as the “five actions,” and they include Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Raktamokshana. However, within these five actions, there are three major divisions that are essential to the panchakarma process. In this article, we will explore the three major divisions of panchakarma.

Purva Karma – The Preparatory Stage

Purva Karma, the first division of panchakarma, is the preparatory stage. It involves a series of preparatory treatments that are designed to prepare the body for the main panchakarma treatments. During this stage, the body is prepared for the elimination of toxins and the subsequent rejuvenation process.

The preparatory treatments include:

Abhyanga: This involves a full-body massage using warm medicated oils, which helps to soften and loosen the toxins in the body.

Swedana: This involves a steam therapy that helps to open up the pores and release toxins through the skin.

Snehana: This involves the internal administration of medicated oils, ghee, or clarified butter, which helps to lubricate the body’s internal organs and tissues.

These preparatory treatments help to remove toxins from the body and prepare it for the main panchakarma treatments.

Pradhana Karma – The Main Treatment

Pradhana Karma, the second division of panchakarma, is the main treatment stage. This stage involves the five main treatments of panchakarma, which are Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Raktamokshana.

Vamana: This is a therapeutic vomiting procedure that is used to remove excess mucus and toxins from the upper respiratory tract and the stomach.

Virechana: This therapy involves the use of laxatives or purgatives to eliminate toxins from the digestive tract.

Basti: This therapy involves the use of medicated oils, decoctions, and other substances to cleanse the colon and remove toxins from the body.

Nasya: This therapy involves the administration of medicated oils or powders through the nose to cleanse the sinuses and promote respiratory health.

Raktamokshana: This therapy involves the removal of small amounts of blood from the body to remove toxins from the blood and promote overall health and wellbeing.

These five treatments are designed to eliminate toxins from the body, promote overall health and wellbeing, and restore balance to the system.

Paschat Karma – The Post-Treatment Stage

Paschat Karma, the third division of panchakarma, is the post-treatment stage. It involves a series of rejuvenation treatments that are designed to restore the body’s natural balance and promote overall health and wellbeing. This stage is crucial for maintaining the benefits of the main panchakarma treatments.

The post-treatment rejuvenation treatments include:

Samsarjana Krama: This is a special diet that is designed to gradually reintroduce foods to the body after the main panchakarma treatments.

Rasayana: This involves the use of rejuvenating herbs and supplements to promote overall health and wellbeing.

Yoga and Meditation: These practices help to maintain the balance and harmony of the body, mind, and spirit.

The post-treatment stage helps to maintain the benefits of the main panchakarma treatments and promote overall health and wellbeing.