One of the most divine of all Ayurvedic therapies, Shirodhara where Shiro implies Head and Dhara implies Flow is a therapy in which warm medicated oil having therapeutic properties, is poured gradually to the forehead continuously for an extended period of time, to open up the pituitary gland, and nourish the brain. The treatment is mainly used to eliminate the diseases of the head, neck, eyes, ears, nose and the nervous system.
Shirodhara can be used to treat a variety of conditions including migraine, stress issues, eye diseases, sinusitis and memory loss. The therapy is known to impart a healthy radiance to the skin and is also considered to be good for hair health.
Indications
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders
- Insomnia
- Psoriasis
- Hypertension
- Chronic Headaches and Migraines
- Memory loss
- Tinnitus and Hearing loss
Procedure
A special vessel with a hole would be hung up over the forehead of the patient, who will be lying on the treatment table. Before the stream of oil is poured the Ayurvedic practitioner will place a cloth over your eyebrows to prevent the flow of the oil from entering the eyes. Cotton balls dipped in cold rose water will be placed on your eyes to help you relax. The medicated liquid, which may be either medicated oil or milk (selection is based on the disease and the dosha state), would be poured into the pot and it would be gradually streamed onto the forehead. The treatment would be carried out for about 60 minutes and one would be allowed to rest after the process. The procedure is generally carried out for a period of 7 to 21 days depending on the condition of the patient.
Shirodhara therapy helps to calm and restore the nerves, release stored emotions, purify the mind, remove fatigue, relieve anxiety, insomnia, chronic headaches, nervousness, and so on.
Shirodhara Therapeutic Benefits
- Stabilizes the nervous system
- Relieves migraine and other headaches
- Enhances blood circulation to the brain
- Treats insomnia
- Reduces stress
- Improves Memory, concentration, and focus
- Prevents hair loss and premature greying
