Purvakarma
Swedana स्वेदन
Herbal steam therapy that opens the channels and mobilises toxins
Medicated steam given in a wooden steam chamber with the head kept outside, usually straight after Abhyanga. Swedana liquefies the ama (metabolic waste) that the oil has loosened and carries it toward the gut. It relieves stiffness quickly and is the reason Panchakarma preparation is done in pairs — oil then heat.
How the session runs
Herbal decoction boiled in the steam unit · 10–15 minutes of steam with the head outside · Sweat wiped, rest
Traditionally used for
- Joint and back stiffness
- Heaviness in the body
- Kapha congestion
- After Abhyanga
When this therapy should not be done
- Pregnancy
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Bleeding disorders
- Extreme weakness
Tell us about any of these at the consultation. We will suggest something else that suits you.
Before you come
- Always taken after oleation, not on dry skin
After the session
- Do not bathe with cold water for two hours
- Sip warm water