Shirodhara Panchkarma
Shirodhara involves the application of medicated oil on the patient's forehead. During the treatment, the patient is made to lie face up on a Droni (Ayurvedic therapy table), with a Vartti (headband) tied around the forehead. A vessel with a central orifice is filled with medicated oil and suspended six to eight inches above the patient's head. The flow of oil is set at a controlled rate. The headband protects the eyes in case of any oil spillage.
Another sub-division of Shirodhara is Takradhara, where buttermilk is also poured along with the oil. This treatment has many therapeutic effects, especially in the improvement of the patient's mental health. It offers relief from Vata-related diseases and stress disorders.
