Pizhichil in Kerala Ayurveda

Pizhichil

Pizhichil, which literally means squeezing, is a unique contribution of the Kerala tradition of Ayurveda. Here, cloth dipped in warm medicated oil is squeezed over the patient’s body. Trained attendants under the supervision of a physician perform the treatment. The attendants squeeze the oil with their right hand and simultaneously massage with their left hand in down ward strokes. The patient should be made to adopt the seven standard positions so that no area of the body is left uncovered. Though it is actually a process of sudation used as a purvakarma (preparatory treatment), it has also proved to be highly effective on its own for treating diseases caused due to the vitiation of the Vata humour, especially Pakshaghata (hemiplegia), paralysis, muscle spasms and other degenerative diseases affecting muscles.

Benefits:

• Relieves body pain and muscle spasms
• Helps preserve and promote optimum health
• Helps in the healing of fractured bones
• Increases immunity and prolongs life span
• Promotes development of muscles
• Improves skin complexion
• Anti aging and rejuvenating
• Ensures better blood circulation
• Alleviates the burning sensation in the body
• A soothing and relaxing procedure

Prescribed in clinical conditions like Paraplegia, Hemiplegia and other Vata dominant ailments.