Pradhankarma
Vamana वमन
Supervised therapeutic emesis that clears the upper body and Kapha imbalance
The first of the five main karmas. After three to seven days of internal oleation and steam, a medicated emetic is given under supervision so that accumulated Kapha is expelled through the upper route. It is a clinical procedure, not a spa treatment: it needs a consultation, preparation days, and a graduated diet (samsarjana krama) afterwards.
How the session runs
Preparation days: internal ghee, abhyanga and swedana · On the day: kapha-increasing breakfast, then the emetic decoction · Supervised bouts counted and assessed · Rest, then dhoomapana and a light diet plan
Traditionally used for
- Chronic congestion and sinusitis
- Bronchial asthma between attacks
- Skin conditions with Kapha dominance
- Obesity with heaviness and lethargy
When this therapy should not be done
- Pregnancy and nursing
- Heart disease and uncontrolled hypertension
- Children and the very elderly
- Emaciation or severe weakness
- Acute illness or fever
- Peptic ulcer, hernia, retinal problems
Tell us about any of these at the consultation. We will suggest something else that suits you.
Before you come
- Mandatory prior consultation
- Three to seven days of prescribed preparation
- No alcohol during the preparation period
- Arrange a light schedule for the day and the day after
After the session
- Samsarjana krama: graduated diet from thin gruel back to normal food over three days
- Full rest on the day of the procedure
- No cold exposure, no daytime sleep